Some things I learned:
You won't have much time to stop at other attractions unless you skip the drivers meetings and head out real early that day.
Book your own hotels anywhere near the venue and you will have 20 other cars there anyway, so don't bother setting up rooms through their service.
The people you will meet at the shows and in the hotel parking lots are among the nicest people in the world, typically.
You WILL be caught up in traffic jams and lots of two lane road stop and go from all the extra traffic. Your cooling system had better be top notch. If you've got a four speed, you'd better have a sturdy left leg.
It is virtually guaranteed to rain on you for one or two of the days. Severe storms and hail are a distinct possibility.
Detours happen, but the hot rod staff does NOT always know the best routes in a detour situation. They sent us away from clear highway into the worst traffic jam on earth.
They give away lots of free stuff at the stage. One thing I never got a chance to do was sit in the front of the stage and try to grab some free stuff. Good stuff too, like gift certificates to most of the major sponsors. This is something I will do at least once on the next one I go to.
Plan some trunk space for all the free hats, posters, stickers, catalogs, etc. you will get lots of it.
Bring along a spare of any critical car part that you don't think the local napa would have. Basic tool kit is a good idea but there are so many people carrying tools that you don't need to carry every tool in your garage. The motor medic brings up the rear with a very well equipped rig. Full size spare tire is a must.
Get a big memory card for your camera.
