Rat Rods Cruising So. Congress St.

Doc's BnG was ground zero for the Rats

On our first weekend in Austin, there was a large "rat rod" gathering. A rat rod is a style of hot rod, or custom car, that in most cases, imitate (or exaggerates) the early hot rods of the 40s, 50s and 60s. Most rat rods appear unfinished with just the bare essentials to be driven. The customization often include using spare parts from other car(s) altogether.

The rats came out on Friday night and cruised South Congress St.

Here are pics of some of the cool rats

Rat fans gather on So. Congress St. for the evening cruise

A fully restored rat (above and below)

My favorite, a Mad Max VW van (above and below)

Gas station conversions to a bar/eatery seemed to be common in Austin. We noticed that the layout of an old gas station works out nicely with the gas pump area suitable for a large outdoor eating area and the interior building and bays converted to the kitchen/bar and indoor dining space.

With mild weather, the outdoor seating is usually jammed with patrons. Great people watching venues.

Doc's was one happening hot spot and always crowded (above and below)

Mike had a fondness for this cute little Nash. A Bike Friday would look perfect hanging off the rear bumper.

Rat fans with front row seats

Java Joe's on So. Congress was always packed . . . another funky eatery with large outdoor dining patio facing the street

As the sun sets, the cruising begins in ernest

Rat rod mama

Friday night cruising