Kellee Tracker: Texas Eclipse 2024 Day 2: BBQ and Blue Bell

The day started with a bit of logistics, as I borrowed as much camping gear from Anna’s family as possible, picked up the air mattress I’d ordered online from their nearest Target, and tried to remove the smell of cigarette smoke that came with my rental car. But it also included breakfast tacos at a place called Titas Taco House in Humble before hitting the road. Titas was popular, and we clearly were the only newbies who didn’t know what we were ordering. I pointed at a few options and wasn’t disappointed–I think it was chorizo that was my favorite?

My friend and awesome hostess, Anna

Pre-trip breakfast

Hitting the road and hoping to beat the expected eclipse traffic, I caught my first glimpse of bluebonnets on my way to Brenham. They were so lovely! I arrived in time for lunch at Truth BBQ, per Devan’s suggestion, and enjoyed a sample of their food before heading to the Blue Bell Ice Cream Factory. The brand got its start in this town, and they had a small museum. Unfortunately I missed the hours when their observation platform was open, but the other draw was their ice cream counter where I sampled a fresh scoop of cookies and cream. I was also intrigued by their distribution map–spreading in all directions, but nothing to speak of in ice-cream-loving Utah? Maybe someday.

First BBQ stop

Lunch!

First ice cream: Cookies and Cream

Why not Utah?

Thoroughly full but not done yet, I continued on to Lockhart, the BBQ Capital of Texas. You could smell it as you arrived, and from the town square there appeared to be an option in every direction. Per Devan’s recommendation, I attempted a BBQ Triathlon with a stop at the 3 major places for a sample at each: Smitty’s Market, Kreuz Market, and Black’s BBQ. Each had their own vibe, each had a massive stock of wood in the back, and each was delicious. They were also within a short walk of each other, which was helpful to digest between rounds. But I ordered so much at Kreuz, that by the time I got to Black’s, I could only muster ordering a single slice of brisket to go.