Major auto shows are experiencing a significant decline in attendance and participation, yet several events continue to attract passionate car enthusiasts. According to research from the Clarify Group, attending these exhibitions still influences consumer purchasing decisions. Their latest study, conducted in 2025 with nearly 9,000 visitors across auto shows in Los Angeles, New York, and Toronto, reveals that 40% of attendees plan to buy or lease a vehicle within the next year. Furthermore, these visitors are 2.9 times more likely to make a purchase compared to the average consumer.
Despite this positive consumer sentiment, the landscape of major auto shows is changing. The iconic Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) was canceled indefinitely in 2024 due to a lack of manufacturer interest. This cancellation is particularly telling, given GIMS’s storied 120-year history as one of the world’s premier auto shows. The trend is not limited to Europe; the 2025 Auto Shanghai show notably lacked participation from major brands such as Kia, Hyundai, and Land Rover. The reasons for this shift are multifaceted, encompassing budget cuts and a growing preference for targeted, online marketing over traditional exhibitions.
In light of these changes, here are five U.S.-based auto shows that remain worthwhile for enthusiasts and potential car buyers alike.
North American International Auto Show (Detroit, Michigan)
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), commonly known as the Detroit Auto Show, has been a staple in the automotive world since its inception in 1907. This significant event celebrates American car culture and serves as a platform for major U.S. manufacturers to unveil new models, concept cars, and cutting-edge technologies. Spanning 2.4 million square feet, NAIAS showcases a diverse range of vehicles, from muscle cars to electric vehicles.
Attendees can engage with the cars through interactive driver sessions and hands-on demonstrations. Additionally, the event features a Charity Preview night that has raised over $100 million for local charities. Tickets for the 2026 event are priced between $10 and $25, making it accessible for a wide audience.
Monterey Car Week (Monterey Peninsula, California)
For those captivated by supercars and automotive history, Monterey Car Week is a premier destination. This prestigious event originated from a beach road race in 1950 and has evolved into a week-long celebration of automotive excellence, attracting over 100,000 enthusiasts annually. The event includes auctions, concours, rallies, and high-end vehicle displays.
While ticket prices can be steep, starting at $1,595 in 2025, Monterey Car Week also features budget-friendly auction options, with some cars selling for under $15,000. The highlight of the week is the free Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, which is renowned as one of the most prestigious exhibitions of exotic vehicles.
Woodward Dream Cruise (Detroit, Michigan)
The Woodward Dream Cruise offers a unique alternative to traditional auto shows, celebrating car culture through a massive gathering of classic cars and enthusiasts. Every August, thousands of owners drive their vehicles down the historic Woodward Avenue, creating an atmosphere that is both spontaneous and joyous. This free event is the largest single-day celebration of American car culture and attracts participants and onlookers from across the nation.
Although official celebrations occur on Saturdays, the excitement begins days earlier, with numerous automakers and enthusiasts setting up displays along the route. The Dream Cruise embodies the essence of car culture, prioritizing community and passion over formal presentations.
Chicago Auto Show (Chicago, Illinois)
As the longest-running auto exposition in the United States, the Chicago Auto Show has been a significant event since 1901. The upcoming 2026 show will mark its 118th iteration, featuring a wide array of new vehicles and interactive experiences. The show consistently attracts nearly a million visitors each year, making it a crucial platform for automakers to connect with consumers.
In 2025, the show highlighted almost 1,000 vehicles from over 20 different manufacturers, including major debuts like the Subaru Forester Hybrid and the Jeep Wagoneer S Limited. Ticket prices are modest, ranging from $15 to $20, and the event also supports a charity initiative that has raised more than $63 million since its inception.
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctions (Scottsdale, Arizona)
The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctions in Scottsdale is a must-visit for car auction enthusiasts. Each January, this event draws bidders from around the world to compete for a diverse collection of vehicles, including classic muscle cars, rare exotics, and even tractors. General admission tickets for the 2026 event start at just $23.
Barrett-Jackson is known for featuring celebrity-owned cars, such as Donald Trump’s Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster, which sold for $1.1 million. The auction also showcased the legendary 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am from “Smokey and the Bandit.” While some vehicles fetch millions, Barrett-Jackson also includes options for more budget-conscious buyers, with some cars selling for under $10,000.
These five events illustrate that while the auto show landscape is changing, opportunities to engage with the automotive community and explore new vehicles remain vibrant.
