Hot Rod Power Tour 2022 – Day 1

One of my favorite events each year is the Hot Rod Power Tour. Thousands of enthusiasts come together from all across the country to cruise the backroads of America, together.

This year was a little different. I didn’t take the Cutlass. Instead I rode with my dad in his 2005 Lexus SC 430. I had to bring the kids to St. Louis to hang with my family before starting our journey in Memphis, so it made more sense this time around. I have to admit, it was kinda nice have a convertible and air conditioning. The Lexus IS still a rear wheel drive, V8 car, so close enough.

My dad and I left St. Louis at 6am on the first day of the Power Tour. Memphis is pretty much a straight shot from there. It was great cruising weather and we even drove with the top down for a while.

As we got closer to Memphis and the sun got higher in the sky, it got hot. Arriving at Liberty Park the fun had begun. There were so many participants gathering and the registration line was really long. It took us 2 hours to get through the line. Longest registration wait I had experienced on Power Tour.

We hung out for a couple of hours. There were already tons of cars to see, old friends to reunite with, and vendors to check out.

We settled into our hotel, found some Memphis Barbecue, and settled in after a long day of traveling in the heat. Tomorrow would be the first route day and we would head across the state to Nashville.