More than 2,000 rods, customs, and classics through '72 cruised into the Puyallup Fair and Events Center in Puyallup, Washington, for the Goodguys 20th annual Pacific Northwest Nationals. Lying just 10 miles east of Tacoma, Washington, and about 150 miles from the Canadian border, Puyallup has been the epicenter of hot rodding for the entire Pacific Northwest and a traditional, established Goodguys event location for 20 years. Every year, thousands of hot rodders swarm to Puyallup for the great summer weather, beautiful scenery, and, of course, thousands of cars.
The Puyallup Fair and Events Center is reminiscent of the town's previous identity as an agricultural community. Since then, the town has grown to a population of more than 36,000, but hasn't lost its small-town charm. The architecture of the various buildings on the fairgrounds reflects this small, agriculture town mentality in designs that emulate turn-of-the-century rural America. The main expo hall is reminiscent of a huge barn, complete with a hayloft. Hamburger and lemonade stands dot the grounds, along with plenty of trees and grass, providing a cozy atmosphere in which to wander and gawk at all the beautiful cars.
One thing that makes the Pacific Northwest Nats unique is that due to its proximity to Canada, a large number of our friends from the North make the trek south for a weekend celebrating the great American automobile. With them they bring Canadian versions of our own Pontiacs, Chevrolets, Fords, and Mercurys, all with their own subtle differences. In a country as spread-out and vast as Canada, a common meeting point is a must, and the Goodguys Pacific Northwest Nats provides such a place.
So if the mid-July heat is burning you up or you're looking for a destination for that summer road trip, mark Puyallup on your map, fill up the tank, load up the kids, and hit the road for a gorgeous drive into the Pacific Northwest for the Goodguys 21st Pacific Northwest Nationals next year!