2026 Chicago Auto Show

• 118th edition introducing Chi-Town Alley showcasing Chicago's performance car culture
• Four indoor test tracks including Camp Jeep's 28-foot Mountain obstacle course
• Chicago Drives Electric track with ride-alongs in battery-powered vehicles from eight manufacturers
• Outdoor test drives on Chicago city streets operated daily throughout show
• Chi-Town Alley features performance vehicles, custom builds, and street-inspired designs
• Family Zone dedicated area with kids' Power Wheels track for ages 2-16

Best Way to Experience It

• Camp Jeep's 28-foot obstacle with 45-degree approach delivers steepest ride experience available
• Overlanding Chicago exhibitors camp overnight on show floor with kid activities

Good to Know

• Children 3 and younger receive free admission when accompanied by paying adult
• McCormick Place is cashless facility accepting only credit and debit cards
• Only clear tote bags 12x12x6 inches or smaller and clutch purses permitted
• Re-entry permitted throughout day with hand stamp at exit
• CTA #3 King Drive bus runs north-south along Michigan Avenue from downtown
• On-site parking available in Lots A, B, and C with paid admission

• Best fit if you're planning vehicle purchases — 44% of 211,850 attendees intend to buy within 12 months, manufacturer displays span 1.6 million square feet, test tracks for hands-on evaluation, dealer representatives on-site.
• Best fit if you value family-friendly events — dedicated Family Zone with kids' activities, children 3-and-under free admission, indoor climate-controlled McCormick Place venue eliminates February Chicago weather concerns (average 21°F/-6°C lows).
• Best fit if you enjoy consumer auto showcases — North America's largest auto show, 118th edition since 1901 makes it continent's longest-running exposition, combines new model debuts with interactive ride experiences.
• Not ideal if you prefer enthusiast gatherings — manufacturer-focused consumer show emphasizes new vehicle sales rather than owner displays, modification culture, or automotive community socializing typical of grassroots car events.