From by-gone eras to glimpses into the future, auto shows have showcased the car in all its petrol-powered glory. And while you may think that these exhibitions are strictly for gear heads, some of the best car shows cater to people from all drives of life. Buckle up and get ready to travel to these destinations because below is our must-see car show schedule of 2019.
What: North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)
When: January 19-27, 2019
Where: Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan
How much: $14; $7 for 65+
Via Flickr/Dave Doe
We couldn’t write about must-see auto shows without mentioning Motor City. And it should come as no surprise that the Detroit auto show hosts one of the most expansive and influential events, occupying nearly 1 million square-feet of the Cobo Center. You’ll find everything here from crazy concept cars to models ready to roll off the assembly line. Last year, guests got a glimpse of Ford’s 2018 Bullitt-inspired Mustang.
What: Chicago Auto Show
When: February 9-18, 2019
Where: McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois
How much: $13 for adults; $7 for adults 62+ and children 7-12; free for children under
Via Flickr/atramos
The Chicago Auto show is the nation’s largest and longest-running auto show. Exhibits include indoor tracks, Women’s Day, and special guest appearances. The event occupies over 1 million square-feet of floor space, so you’ll definitely find something that revs your engine. The exhibition also rents out scooters and wheelchairs to make accessibility a breeze.
What: Classic Auto Show
When: March 16-17, 2019
Where: Orange County Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa, California
How much: $25 after February for one-day passes
You’ll be California dreaming when you head to Costa Mesa for the third annual Classic Auto Show. This two-day festival features everything from wood-paneled Woodies to classic candy-apple Corvettes. With live restorations, celebrity guests, and over 1,000 exhibits to gawk at, you’ll love cruising down memory lane.
What: Geneva International Motor Show
When: March 7-17, 2019
Where: Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland
How much: $16; discounts after 4 p.m.
It may surprise you that a country that lacks an auto industry hosts one of the most important auto shows. But Switzerland’s neutral territory provides the ideal location for car manufactures to show off prototypes, technical breakthroughs, and engage in political debates. In between the over 1,000 exhibits and panels, you’ll see the real show stealers: the exotic supercars. Iso Rivolta and Alfa Romeo are just a few of the manufactures showcasing vehicles that look like they came from the future And don’t forget, once you’ve taken in the car show you can enjoy this beautiful country that offers once-in-a life time experiences.
What: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
When: August 18, 2019
Where: Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, California
How much: $375; free for children under 12
Via Flickr/Rex Gray
Is there a better setting for an antique car show? If so, we can’t think of it. Exhibits range from Eisenhower Era Dream Convertibles to Aston Martin concept cars. Past Best of Show nominees have included rarities like the 1932 Packard 906 Twin Six. The ticket prices may be steep, but where else can you hobnob with the rich and famous as a Ferrari Scaglietti Spyder revs its engine?
Header Image Via Shutterstock.com/jakkapan
