International automobile debuts and classic cars are featured at the US auto shows of 2026. These auto shows have several benefits and serve several purposes, such as car shopping, auto history appreciation, as well as a source of entertainment for the entire family.
This guide breaks down the 12 biggest US car shows of 2026 with real dates, ticket prices, attendance data, and answers to the questions people actually ask, so you can pick the right event before booking a trip.
Below you’ll find each show ranked by attendance, with everything you need to decide which one is worth your time.
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1. New York International Auto Show (NYIAS)
One of the largest-attended auto show in North America.
The New York International Auto Show is the oldest and largest-attended auto show in North America. First held in 1900, it was the first automotive exhibition on the continent. NYIAS has played a crucial role in shaping American car culture and the auto industry, introducing new technologies and designs to the public for over a century. The show is also a major economic contributor to New York City and State.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | April 3–12, 2026 |
| Location | Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, NY |
| Attendance | Hundreds of thousands visitors (2025) |
| Exhibit Space | 1,000,000 sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | 700+ |
| Exhibitors | 34 automakers + 100+ other exhibitors |
| Show Type | Industry + Public |
| Founded | 1900 |
| Website | autoshowny.com |
Ticket Prices (as of recent shows)
- Adult (13 and older): $22
- Child (3–12 years): $8
- 2 years & younger: Free with paid Adult
- Early Access (9am Friday or Saturday) — Adult: $48
- Early Access (9am Friday or Saturday) — Child: $18
- NY Waterway Combo — Adult: $39.50
- NY Waterway Combo — Child: $19.00
Q: Is the New York Auto Show worth attending?
A: Yes. NYIAS is the oldest and largest-attended auto show in North America, historically drawing around 1 million visitors in peak years. It consistently features major world debuts from global automakers at the Javits Center in Manhattan. Even as some manufacturers have pulled back from other shows, New York remains a priority reveal location due to its proximity to mainstream media outlets. If you are a car enthusiast or are actively shopping for a new vehicle, it offers an unmatched opportunity to compare dozens of brands under one roof in a single day.
Q: How much are tickets and can kids attend?
A: Adult tickets (ages 13+) are $22, children ages 3–12 are $8, and children 2 and under are free with a paid adult. Early Access tickets ($48 adult, $18 child) let you enter at 9 AM on Fridays or Saturdays before the general public. The show is very family-friendly, and combo tickets with NY Waterway ferry service are available ($39.50 adult, $19 child) for a fun travel experience. Only ADA-certified service animals are permitted inside the Javits Center.
Sources: [1] Wikipedia | Official NYIAS Website | NYIAS Tickets | NYIAS History
2. Chicago Auto Show
The largest and longest-running auto show in North America by exhibit space.
First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest and longest-running auto show in North America by exhibit space. It is held annually at McCormick Place — the largest convention center in the Western Hemisphere — and is produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA). The show features a complete range of domestic and imported passenger cars, trucks, sport-utility vehicles, minivans, and experimental and concept cars. The 2026 show will be the 118th edition, continuing its legacy as a must-attend event for the Midwest and the nation.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | February 7–16, 2026 |
| Location | McCormick Place, Chicago, IL |
| Attendance | ~217,000 (2025) [2] |
| Exhibit Space | 1,000,000+ sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | Nearly 1,000 |
| Exhibitors | 24+ manufacturers |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1901 (118th edition in 2026) |
| Website | chicagoautoshow.com | https://tempuslogix.com/blog/chicago-auto-show-2026/ |
Ticket Prices (typical recent pricing)
- General Admission: $20
- Seniors (62+): $15
- Children (4–12): $15
- Children (3 and under): Free
- First Responders & Military (Feb. 11 only): Free
- Weekday Discount (with coupon from new-car dealers): $5 off adult admission on Feb. 9–13 and Feb. 16
- Food Drive Discount (Feb. 11–13): $5 off adult admission with a donation of three cans of food
Q: Is the Chicago Auto Show still worth going to even though it has gotten smaller?
A: Absolutely. While the show has contracted from its peak, it remains North America’s largest auto show by exhibit space and still draws close to 1 million visitors annually at McCormick Place. It offers hands-on experiences you cannot get at a dealership — including Camp Jeep ride-alongs, indoor EV test tracks, and the ability to sit inside nearly every production vehicle on the floor without any sales pressure. Forum users consistently say weekday visits deliver the best experience with smaller crowds. At $20 for general admission (or as low as $10.25 through the show’s app), it remains one of the best-value automotive events in the country.
Q: What are the best tips for visiting — parking, crowds, and what to bring?
A: Take public transit if possible — the CTA Green Line stops at Cermak-McCormick Place. If driving, parking is $17–$25 (all lots drop to $11 after 6 PM). Go on a weekday morning to avoid the heaviest crowds; opening weekend is the most packed. Wear very comfortable shoes (you will walk 2–4 miles), bring a portable phone charger, and leave large bags at home — McCormick Place enforces a clear-bag policy (12″×12″×6″ max). The venue is entirely cashless. Plan for about 2–3.5 hours to see everything, and map out your must-see cars in advance using the show’s floor plan online.
Sources: [2] PR Newswire (2025 Attendance) | Official Website
3. Detroit Auto Show (North American International Auto Show — NAIAS)
The heartland of American automotive innovation.
The Detroit Auto Show, with a history dating back to 1899, is widely regarded as one of North America’s most historically significant auto shows and a bellwether for the global automotive industry. It has traditionally been a platform for major automakers to unveil new models and concept cars, and it plays a crucial role for the “Big Three” Detroit-based automakers (General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis). The 2026 show will feature the return of The Gallery with ultra-luxury vehicles, an indoor EV Experience, and the Michigan Overland Adventure. The show’s move to a January date and its continued investment in experiential elements signal its renewed commitment to being a world-class event.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | January 17–25, 2026 |
| Location | Huntington Place, Detroit, MI |
| Attendance | 275,000 (2025) [3] |
| Exhibit Space | ~700,000 sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | Nearly 500 |
| Brands | 40+ |
| Show Type | Industry + Public |
| Founded | 1899 |
| Website | detroitautoshow.com | https://tempuslogix.com/blog/detroit-auto-show-transport-attendance-guide |
Ticket Prices
- Adults: $25
- Senior (65 and older): $15
- Child (3–12 years): $10
- Child (2 and under): Free
- Family Pass (2 adults, 3 children): $60
- Advance Group Sales (30 or more): $18
Q: Is the Detroit Auto Show worth traveling for?
A: It depends on your expectations. The Detroit Auto Show has downsized significantly from its heyday (peak attendance of 838,000 has fallen to around 275,000), and many Asian and European brands no longer participate. However, it remains the heartbeat of American automotive culture and is the home turf of the Big Three — GM, Ford, and Stellantis. The 2026 show features The Gallery (ultra-luxury vehicles), an indoor EV Experience, and the Michigan Overland Adventure. TripAdvisor users from out of state recommend combining it with a trip to the Henry Ford Museum for a full automotive weekend. If you are a Detroit-area local, it is an easy and worthwhile day trip.
Q: What is the Charity Preview and is it worth the price?
A: The Charity Preview (now called “First Look for Charity”) is a prestigious black-tie gala held the evening before the show opens to the public. Tickets are approximately $400 and the event has historically been called the largest single-night charity fundraiser in the world, raising millions for Detroit-area children’s charities. Attendees enjoy a dramatically less crowded show floor, open bars, live entertainment (2026 featured Robin Thicke), and the chance to win a free vehicle. Strict dress code applies: tuxedo for men, formal gown for women. If budget allows, forum users say it is an unforgettable experience.
Sources: [3] NAIAS 2025 Attendance | Official NAIAS Website | NAIAS Tickets | NAIAS 2026 Brands
4. Los Angeles Auto Show
The West Coast’s premier automotive showcase.
Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show is one of the world’s most influential auto shows and a cornerstone of North American car culture. Held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center, it serves as a major platform for vehicle debuts from global automakers and showcases the latest in automotive technology, including a significant focus on electric and hybrid vehicles. The event kicks off with AutoMobility LA, a multi-day press and trade event, before opening to the public for ten days. The show is known for featuring a wide array of vehicles, from new production models and concept cars to custom and historic vehicles, along with interactive experiences like test drives.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | November 20–29, 2026 |
| Location | Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA |
| Attendance | Over 11,000 (2025) [4] |
| Exhibit Space | Nearly 1M sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | 1,000+ |
| Show Type | Industry + Public |
| Founded | 1907 |
| Website | laautoshow.com |
Ticket Prices (may vary by year)
- Adult (Opening Day): $18
- Senior (Opening Day): $8
- Child (Opening Day): $8
- Adult (Any Day): $25
- Senior (Any Day): $12
- Child (Any Day): $12
Q: What should I know before going to the LA Auto Show?
A: The LA Auto Show runs for 10 days at the Los Angeles Convention Center and is known for its strong focus on electric and hybrid vehicles. Take the Metro Expo Line to Pico Station, which stops directly in front of the venue — driving and parking ($20+) can be frustrating. Opening Day tickets are cheaper ($18 adult vs. $25 any-day). The show covers nearly 1 million square feet, so wear comfortable shoes and don’t try to see everything at a leisurely pace. VIP Early Entry ($45) is highly recommended by forum users for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities, especially on weekends.
Q: What makes the LA Auto Show different from other US auto shows?
A: LA stands out for three reasons. First, it kicks off with AutoMobility LA, a multi-day press and trade event where major global reveals happen — making it a key media show alongside New York. Second, its Southern California location makes it the natural launch pad for EV and sustainability-focused debuts (the region is the largest EV market in the US). Third, it offers outdoor test-drive experiences that indoor-only shows like Chicago and New York cannot match. Industry analysts note that as some traditional shows shrink, LA and New York have emerged as the two primary media-focused US auto shows.
Sources: [4] LA Business Journal | Official LA Auto Show Website | LA Auto Show History | 2024 LA Auto Show Recap (PDF)
5. Miami International Auto Show
The Southeast’s largest automotive event.
The Miami International Auto Show, established in 1971, is a premier automotive event in the Southeastern United States. It is known for featuring a wide array of new vehicles, including significant global and North American debuts. The show emphasizes a consumer-focused experience with interactive elements like indoor EV test tracks and ride-and-drive opportunities. It also incorporates cultural elements through classic car displays and artistic collaborations, making it a key platform for automakers to engage with a broad and diverse audience.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | TBD (typically held in September/October) |
| Location | Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, FL |
| Attendance | 650,000+ (average) [5] |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Website | miamiautoshows.com |
Ticket Prices
- Adult (13+): $18
- Premiere VIP Ticket: $50
- Child (6–12): $7
- Weekday Adult (Mon–Thu): $12
- First Responders & Military (Mon–Thu): $10
- Senior (65+): $10
Q: What can I expect at the Miami International Auto Show?
A: The Miami International Auto Show is the Southeast’s largest automotive event, featuring a wide array of new vehicles including global and North American debuts. The show emphasizes a consumer-focused experience with interactive elements like an indoor EV test track and ride-and-drive opportunities. It also incorporates cultural elements through classic car displays and artistic collaborations, reflecting Miami’s vibrant cultural scene. General admission is $18 (adults), with weekday tickets available for $12 and VIP Premiere tickets at $50.
Q: Is the Miami Auto Show good for families?
A: Yes, it is a family-friendly event. Children ages 6–12 can attend for $7, and the interactive driving experiences and colorful displays keep younger attendees engaged. The show typically runs from late October through early November, offering a pleasant alternative to cold-weather auto shows in the Midwest. First responders and military personnel receive discounted admission ($10 on weekdays). It is a solid option for Southeast car enthusiasts who do not want to travel to New York, Chicago, or Detroit.
Sources: [5] miamiautoshows.com | MIAS 2023 Recap
6. Houston Auto Show
Texas’s premier automotive showcase.
The Houston Auto Show, produced by the Houston Auto Dealers Association, is a major public automotive event in the Southern United States. For the past several years, it has been combined with the Houston Boat Show to create a unique “AutoBOATive” experience, providing a diverse offering for attendees showcasing the latest in both automotive and marine vehicles. The show is known for providing a pressure-free environment where visitors can explore hundreds of new models and interact with brand experts.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | January 28 – February 1, 2026 |
| Location | NRG Center, Houston, TX |
| Attendance | 450,000+ (estimate) [6] |
| Exhibit Space | 800,000 sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | 500+ |
| Exhibitors | 34–40+ brands |
| Show Type | Public |
| Website | houstonautoshow.com |
Ticket Prices
- General Admission: $20
- Family 4-Pack: $60
- Children (5 and under): Free
Q: What is unique about the Houston Auto Show?
A: The Houston Auto Show stands out because it is combined with the Houston Boat Show to create a unique “AutoBOATive” experience — making it the only major US event where you can explore hundreds of new cars and boats in the same venue. Produced by the Houston Auto Dealers Association, it provides a pressure-free environment to compare models and interact with brand experts. General admission is $20, with a Family 4-Pack available for $60 and free entry for children 5 and under.
Q: Is the Houston Auto Show worth attending compared to bigger shows?
A: For Texas and Gulf Coast residents, absolutely. While it does not have the national media presence of Detroit, Chicago, or New York, it offers a strong regional lineup and the combined car-and-boat format gives it a distinct appeal. It is particularly valuable if you are actively shopping for a new vehicle, as you can sit inside and compare models from most major manufacturers without any sales pressure. The show is well-attended and offers good value, especially with the Family 4-Pack option.
Sources: [6] Wikipedia | Official Website | Houston Auto Show Tickets | CarPro
7. Philadelphia Auto Show
One of America’s oldest and most-attended regional auto shows.
The Philadelphia Auto Show, which debuted in 1902, is one of the oldest and largest auto shows in the United States. It is a public event held annually at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, produced by the Auto Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia. The show has a significant economic impact on the region, reportedly influencing nearly half of the area’s new car sales. Highlights for the 2026 show include interactive driving experiences like “Camp Jeep” and electric vehicle test tracks, along with the display of high-end exotic cars.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | January 31 – February 8, 2026 |
| Location | Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA |
| Attendance | 250,000 (2026) [7] |
| Exhibit Space | 700,000 sq. ft. |
| Vehicles on Display | 700+ |
| Brands | 27 |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1902 |
| Website | phillyautoshow.com |
Ticket Prices
- Adult: $21.50
- Child (ages 7–12): $13.50
- Military & Seniors (62+): $16.50
Q: How big is the Philadelphia Auto Show and what can I see there?
A: The Philadelphia Auto Show is one of America’s oldest (debuted in 1902) and most-attended regional auto shows. Held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, it features interactive driving experiences like Camp Jeep, electric vehicle test tracks, and displays of high-end exotic cars. The show reportedly influences nearly half of the Greater Philadelphia area’s new car sales, making it a major event for both enthusiasts and serious buyers. Adult tickets are $21.50, children 7–12 are $13.50, and military/seniors get in for $16.50.
Q: Is the Philadelphia Auto Show family-friendly?
A: Yes, it is designed to appeal to a broad audience including families. Interactive ride-along experiences like Camp Jeep are popular with both kids and adults (height requirements apply — typically 44″ minimum). The show runs over multiple days including weekends, and weekday visits tend to be less crowded. It is a strong alternative for Mid-Atlantic residents who may not want to travel to New York or Detroit, offering a similar hands-on experience at a slightly lower ticket price.
Sources: [7] NBC Philadelphia | Official Website | CBS News | Wikipedia
8. SEMA Show
The world’s premier automotive specialty products trade event.
The SEMA Show is the premier trade show for the automotive aftermarket industry. It began in 1967 and has grown into a massive event that showcases thousands of new products, from performance parts to car care accessories. Key highlights include the New Products Showcase, extensive outdoor demonstrations of vehicle capabilities, the SEMA Cruise, and SEMA Fest. The show is a vital platform for networking, discovering trends, and professional development within the automotive specialty equipment market. While primarily a trade show, the Friday Experience and SEMA Fest open select areas to the general public.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | November 3–6, 2026 |
| Location | Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV |
| Attendance | 160,000+ (2025) [8] |
| Exhibit Space | 1.2 million net sq. ft. |
| Exhibitors | ~2,300 |
| Show Type | Industry Only (with public access on Friday via “SEMA Show Friday Experience”) |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Website | semashow.com |
Ticket Prices
- SEMA Show Registration (Trade-only): $50 (early bird) – $100
- SEMA Show Friday Experience (public): $70 (early bird) – $100
- SEMA Fest VIP: $139
Q: Can the general public attend the SEMA Show?
A: The main SEMA Show (Tuesday–Friday) is trade-only and not open to the general public. You must prove employment in the automotive industry with documentation such as two pay stubs or a company-issued badge plus a business license. However, there are two ways for enthusiasts to participate: the SEMA Show Friday Experience ($70–$100) allows limited public access on the final Friday, and SEMA Fest (formerly SEMA Ignited) is a separate public event featuring show cars, live entertainment, and the famous SEMA Cruise. Forum users frequently share workarounds, but enforcement of credentials varies and unauthorized attendees risk removal.
Q: How much does it cost to exhibit at SEMA and what should first-time exhibitors know?
A: Booth space costs $21.95 per net square foot for SEMA members and $36.95 for non-members, with a 100 sq ft minimum. However, the total cost of exhibiting is much higher. Industry insiders estimate that properly displaying one vehicle requires at least a 20×20 booth, and once you factor in carpeting, electricity, drayage (material handling through Freeman, the official contractor), furniture, and staffing, the real cost starts around $50,000 and can go well beyond that. First-time exhibitors should know that music cannot exceed 85 decibels, business casual attire is required, booth must be staffed during all show hours, and shipping materials requires careful coordination with Freeman’s advance warehouse system.
Sources: [8] SEMA Fact Sheet (PDF) | Official Website | Automotive Aftermarket
9. Monterey Car Week & Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
The world’s most prestigious celebration of automotive excellence.
Monterey Car Week is a week-long celebration of classic and exotic cars, culminating in the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The event began in 1950 and has grown to become one of the most significant events in the automotive world, attracting collectors, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the globe. It is a major platform for manufacturers to debut new vehicles and concepts. The 2026 event will mark the 75th anniversary of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, making it an especially momentous occasion. The week also includes the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, and numerous auctions by RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Company, and Bonhams.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | August 7–16, 2026 |
| Location | Various locations, Monterey, CA (Pebble Beach Concours at The Lodge at Pebble Beach) |
| Attendance | 100,000+ (2025) [9] |
| Vehicles on Display | ~200 at Pebble Beach Concours; hundreds more across the week |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1950 |
| 2026 Milestone | 75th Anniversary of Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance |
| Website | pebblebeachconcours.net |
Ticket Prices (Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance)
- General Admission: $550 (increases to $650 on August 1, 2026)
- Children under 12: Free with a paying adult
- Club d’Elegance: $1,200
- The Venue Above the Concept Lawn: $2,000
- The Concours Gallery: $2,500
- Patron’s Patio: $3,500
- Chairman’s Hospitality at The Lodge: $5,000
Q: How much do Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance tickets cost and is it worth the price?
A: General admission starts at $550 (rising to $650 after August 1), with premium experiences ranging from $1,200 (Club d’Elegance) up to $5,000 (Chairman’s Hospitality at The Lodge). Children under 12 are free with a paying adult. Whether it is worth the price depends on your passion for automotive history: this is the world’s most prestigious concours event, attracting the rarest and most valuable automobiles on earth. The 2026 event marks the 75th anniversary, making it an especially momentous occasion. For serious collectors and enthusiasts, it is considered a bucket-list experience.
Q: What else happens during Monterey Car Week besides the Concours?
A: Monterey Car Week is a full week of events, not just the Sunday Concours. Major events include the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (vintage racing at Laguna Seca), The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering (intimate display of rare cars), and major collector car auctions by RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Company, and Bonhams where millions of dollars in cars change hands. Manufacturers also use the week to debut new vehicles and concepts to an ultra-affluent audience. Many events have separate tickets and sell out well in advance.
Sources: [9] The Californian | Official Website | The Concours Store | Wikipedia
10. Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
The world’s greatest collector car auction.
The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction is a world-renowned collector car auction and its 2026 event was a major success, achieving $195.2 million in total sales with a 100% No Reserve docket. A significant aspect of the auction is its philanthropic efforts, with $5.85 million raised for charity in 2026. The event is a prominent fixture in the automotive world, attracting celebrities and car enthusiasts from around the globe. It is not just an auction but a lifestyle event with a car show, various exhibitors, and live entertainment. The auction’s history dates back to 1971, and it has grown to become a televised spectacle, solidifying its importance in the industry.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | January 17–25, 2026 |
| Location | WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ |
| Registered Bidders | 6,500 (2026) [10] |
| Vehicles Auctioned | 1,911 collectible vehicles |
| Automobilia | 949 pieces |
| Total Sales (2026) | $195.2 million |
| Charity Raised (2026) | $5.85 million |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Website | barrett-jackson.com |
Ticket Prices
- All-Session Pass: $251
- All-Session Pass (Seniors, Military, First Responders): $201
- Children (12 and under): Free
- Student (ages 13–17): $10
- Daily Entry (Jan. 17): $33
- Daily Entry (Jan. 18): $31
- Daily Entry (Jan. 19): $27
- Daily Entry (Jan. 20): $37
- Daily Entry (Jan. 21): $43
- Daily Entry (Jan. 22): $55
- Daily Entry (Jan. 23): $78
- Daily Entry (Jan. 24): $91
- Daily Entry (Jan. 25): $27
Q: Can I attend Barrett-Jackson just to watch even if I am not buying a car?
A: Absolutely. Barrett-Jackson is as much a lifestyle event as it is an auction. Daily tickets range from $27 to $91 depending on the day (Saturday auction finals are the most expensive and exciting). An All-Session Pass is $251 ($201 for seniors, military, and first responders), and children 12 and under are free. Beyond the auction block, there is a massive car show, vendor exhibits, live entertainment, and celebrity appearances. You do not need to register as a bidder to enjoy the full experience. The 2026 event generated $195.2 million in total sales with a 100% No Reserve format.
Q: What makes Barrett-Jackson different from a regular auto show?
A: Unlike traditional auto shows that display new production vehicles, Barrett-Jackson is a collector car auction where rare, classic, custom, and exotic vehicles are sold to the highest bidder in a live, televised setting. Every car crosses the block with no reserve, meaning it sells regardless of price. The event also raises significant money for charity — $5.85 million in 2026 alone. It is an electrifying atmosphere that combines the thrill of bidding with the spectacle of world-class automotive art. For car enthusiasts, it offers a completely different energy than walking a show floor.
Sources: [10] Barrett-Jackson | AZ Central | Wikipedia
11. Goodguys Rod & Custom Association Shows
The world’s largest hot rodding association — 15+ events nationwide.
Founded in 1983, the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association is the world’s largest hot rodding association. It hosts over 15 events annually across the US, showcasing thousands of classic cars and attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators. The association is dedicated to preserving and promoting hot rodding culture. A key highlight for 2026 is the introduction of the “Roadster Shop 4×4 of the Year” award. Events feature swap meets, vendor displays, autocross competitions, and awards ceremonies celebrating the best in American hot rod and custom car culture.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | Multiple events throughout 2026 (March–November) |
| Locations | Multiple venues across the US (TX, AZ, CA, WA, OH, TN, NC, and more) |
| Combined Attendance | ~1,000,000 annually (2019) [11] |
| Vehicles per Event | 3,500–6,500 classic cars |
| Members | 70,000+ active global members |
| Show Type | Public |
| Founded | 1983 |
| Website | good-guys.com |
Ticket Prices (Typical Event)
- General Admission — Single Day: $28.67 ($27.00 + $1.67 fee)
- General Admission — Two Day Pass: $41.99 ($40.00 + $1.99 fee)
- Junior Admission (Age 7–12) — Single Day: $11.24 ($10.00 + $1.24 fee)
- Children (age 6 & under): Free
- Active & Retired Military: Free all weekend with valid ID
Q: What are Goodguys events and how are they different from regular auto shows?
A: Goodguys is the world’s largest hot rodding association, hosting over 15 events annually across the United States. Unlike traditional auto shows that feature new production vehicles from manufacturers, Goodguys events celebrate classic cars, hot rods, customs, muscle cars, and trucks built by individual owners and builders. Events feature thousands of participant vehicles, swap meets, vendor displays, autocross competitions, and awards ceremonies. Think of it as a grassroots celebration of car culture rather than a manufacturer marketing event. Combined attendance across all events exceeds 500,000 annually.
Q: How much do Goodguys events cost and are they family-friendly?
A: General admission is typically around $28–$29 for a single day or $40–$42 for a two-day pass. Children ages 7–12 pay about $11, kids 6 and under are free, and active and retired military get in free all weekend with valid ID. The events are very family-friendly with a relaxed, outdoor festival atmosphere. They are a great way to introduce kids to car culture — the swap meets, autocross action, and sheer variety of colorful vehicles keep all ages entertained. New for 2026 is the Roadster Shop 4×4 of the Year award, reflecting the growing off-road trend.
Sources: [11] Goodguys Marketing Kit (PDF) | Official Website | 2026 Event Schedule
12. San Diego International Auto Show
California’s second-largest auto show.
The San Diego International Auto Show is California’s second-largest auto show and a major event for car enthusiasts and potential buyers in the region. It serves as a significant platform for manufacturers to display their latest vehicles and technologies, with a growing emphasis on electric and hybrid models. The show is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and interactive experiences, including test drives and ride-alongs. The 2025 edition saw a 33% increase in vehicle brands and featured 38 different plug-in models from 21 brands.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Dates | January 1–4, 2026 |
| Location | San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, CA |
| Attendance | Tens of thousands; 300,000+ in-vehicle consumer experiences (2025) [12] |
| Brands | 25+ |
| Show Type | Public |
| Website | sdautoshow.com |
Ticket Prices
- Adult (ages 13–61): $18
- Senior (ages 62+): $15
- Military (Active Duty w/ ID): $15
- Child (ages 7–12): $12
- Child (ages 6 & under): Free
- Family Day (Sunday, Jan 4): Children 12 & under are free
Q: What makes the San Diego International Auto Show worth attending?
A: As California’s second-largest auto show, the San Diego International Auto Show offers a strong lineup of new vehicles with a growing emphasis on electric and plug-in models. The 2025 edition saw a 33% increase in participating vehicle brands and featured 38 different plug-in models from 21 brands. It offers interactive experiences including test drives and ride-alongs in a more relaxed, less crowded setting than the massive LA show. For Southern California residents south of Los Angeles, it is a convenient and high-quality alternative.
Q: Are there discounts or family-friendly options?
A: Yes. Adult tickets are $18, seniors and active-duty military pay $15, children 7–12 are $12, and kids 6 and under are free. On Family Day (typically the final Sunday), all children 12 and under get in free, making it an excellent value for families. The show’s manageable size means you can comfortably see everything in 2–3 hours without the exhaustion of navigating a million-square-foot venue. It is a welcoming, low-pressure environment for first-time auto show attendees.
Sources: [12] San Diego Dealer Magazine | Official Website | NBC 7 San Diego
Conclusion
The American auto show landscape in 2026 is vibrant and diverse. From the media-frenzied debuts in New York and Los Angeles to the passionate grassroots gatherings of Goodguys and the high-stakes auctions at Barrett-Jackson, there is an event for every type of car lover. Whether you are planning a family outing, a serious car-buying mission, or a pilgrimage to an automotive mecca, this guide provides the essential information to help you choose the best show for you.
Disclaimer: All dates, prices, and attendance figures are based on the most recent information available at the time of writing (February 2026) and are subject to change. Please check the official event websites for the latest updates before making travel plans.
