Mine is just down the street, about 1 mile. I wouldn't drive 2.5 hrs for it either. I stop in before work because my work is across the street, literally. If it's crazy I go back a few hours later. Last year it wasn't so bad because the door busters go until noon, I think everyone hits the other sales first and then go to Joanns. I think this year may be better because they have the number system and they announce the number over the speaker so you don't have to be standing right there if there are a lot of people in line, you can go shop some more.
There is a super store about 30 miles north but I won't drive for that either.