Chicago Auto Show 2026: Everything to Know Before You Go
Planning a trip to the Windy City this February? You’re in for a treat. The Chicago Auto Show 2026 is one of the biggest celebrations of everything on wheels, from rugged overlanding rigs to the sleekest electric vehicles hitting the streets. Whether you’re a die hard gearhead or just looking for a fun family weekend, this guide walks you through everything you need to navigate McCormick Place like a pro. We’ll cover the show dates, the must see exhibits, and the practical gear that’ll keep you powered up from the moment you walk in to the moment you head home.
Note: dates, ticket pricing, and featured exhibits are based on current projections and past-year patterns and could shift slightly as the show gets closer.
Chicago Auto Show 2026 Basics at a Glance
Before you start mapping out your route through the show floor, let’s lock in the essentials. The Chicago Auto Show has been a cornerstone of American car culture since 1901, and the 2026 edition is shaping up to be one of the most interactive versions yet.
What Is the Chicago Auto Show?
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest and longest running auto exposition in North America, taking over the massive halls of McCormick Place with close to 1,000 vehicles on display. Unlike invite-only industry events, this show is built for the public. You can sit inside the cars, talk directly with brand experts, and even test out select vehicles on indoor driving tracks, no dealership pressure involved.
When Is the Chicago Auto Show in 2026?
The 2026 Chicago Auto Show runs from Saturday, February 7, through Monday, February 16, with doors typically opening at 10 a.m. each day. If crowds aren’t your thing, weekdays are noticeably calmer. Another smart option is attending the “First Look for Charity” event on the evening of February 6, which offers early access in a more relaxed setting.
Where Is the Chicago Auto Show 2026 Held?
The event takes place at McCormick Place, located at 2301 S. King Drive in Chicago, Illinois. Sitting right along the lakefront, the venue is easy to reach from Lake Shore Drive and the Stevenson Expressway and offers millions of square feet of exhibit space, enough to spend an entire day exploring without seeing everything.
Chicago Auto Show Tickets: What to Know Before You Buy
Getting tickets is straightforward, but a little planning goes a long way. Knowing when and how to buy can save you money, and keep you from standing in a long line when you’d rather be inside checking out the show.
Ticket Types and Pricing Basics
General admission tickets for adults typically run around $20. Seniors (62+) and kids ages 4-12 can usually get in for about $15, while children 3 and under are free. It’s also worth watching for special “Appreciation Days” throughout the show, which often offer discounted or complimentary entry for first responders and military personnel.
Buying Online vs. Buying at the Door
Buying tickets online through the official website is the easiest way to skip the lines. On-site ticket booths are available, but they’re often cashless, and waits can stretch longer than you expect, especially if you’re eager to head straight for attractions like Bronco Mountain. Having your tickets on your phone also means one less thing to keep track of in a crowded venue.
Common Ticket Mistakes to Avoid at Checkout
Before you hit purchase, take a minute to look for discount codes from local Chicagoland dealerships or partner gas stations like O’Reilly Auto Parts. And if you’re booking specialty experiences such as a VIP Tour or “Friday Night Flights,” double check the date and time. These tickets are usually limited, tied to specific slots, and often non-refundable.
Chicago Auto Show Parking, Transit, and Entry Tips
Getting to McCormick Place is half the battle. Whether you’re driving in from the suburbs or hopping on the “L,” having a game plan can save you a lot of time, and a lot of patience, once Chicago traffic kicks in.
The Best Parking Plan for a Smooth Arrival
If you’re driving, Lot A is the most convenient option for both the South and North Buildings, but it fills up fast. To keep your morning stress free, it’s worth reserving a spot ahead of time using apps like SpotHero.
For a long day at the show, it’s common to end up waiting in parking lines or taking a short break in your car. That’s where the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station can be genuinely useful. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to keep in your trunk or backpack. If your phone is nearly dead after taking hundreds of photos, or you need to power small electronics, charge phones wirelessly, or keep essential devices running while waiting in the parking lot, the RIVER 3 gives you quick power without hauling bulky equipment, especially if you want to wirelessly charge a phone while you wait.
Transit and Ride-Share Drop-Off Spots That Save Time
The Metra Electric Line stops directly inside McCormick Place, making it one of the easiest ways to avoid traffic altogether. CTA riders can take the Green Line to Cermak McCormick Place and walk a short distance to the entrance. If you’re using Uber or Lyft, ask to be dropped off at Gate 4 on Martin Luther King Drive, it’s typically less crowded than the main entrances and can shave time off your arrival.
The Fastest Entry Plan for Busy Days
Try to arrive about 20 minutes before doors open at 10 a.m. Most attendees funnel toward the South Building’s main entrance, which can back up quickly. If you’re able to enter through the North Building or use the concourse bridges, you’ll often move through security much faster and get a head start on the show floor.
What to See First at the Chicago Auto Show 2026
With hundreds of thousands of square feet to cover, having a plan matters. Without one, it’s easy to wander around and miss the cars everyone ends up talking about afterward.
The Headline Displays You’ll Regret Missing
Watch for the debut of Chi Town Alley, a new section for 2026 focused on local car culture, custom builds, and high end exotics. It’s expected to be one of the busiest areas on the floor. Beyond that, the large manufacturer displays from Ford, Chevy, and Toyota are always worth prioritizing, especially for their latest concept cars that look more like sci-fi than production models.
The Hands-On Test Track Experiences Everyone Talks About
You haven’t really done the Chicago Auto Show until you’ve tried Camp Jeep. The indoor off road course includes steep climbs and dramatic tilts that show what these SUVs are actually capable of. Ford’s Built Wild track is another standout, giving you a chance to feel the power and traction of a Bronco on a 38 degree incline.
The EV Section for the Fastest Side-by-Side Comparisons
Chicago Drives Electric is the dedicated indoor EV track where you can ride in the latest models from Tesla, Lucid, and Hyundai. It’s one of the best places at the show to compare electric vehicles back to back and ask real questions about range, charging speed, and federal tax credits, without the pressure of a dealership sales floor.
What to Bring for a Better Chicago Auto Show Visit
Covering a venue as massive as McCormick Place comes down to preparation. If you show up unprepared, you’ll probably feel worn out, and low on battery, before you even make it through the second hall. Here’s a simple checklist to keep the day running smoothly.
Comfortable Sneakers
This one isn’t optional. With more than a million square feet to cover, hitting 10,000 steps before lunch is easy. Skip the dress shoes and wear whatever you’re most comfortable walking in all day.
A Light Jacket or Layers
Chicago winter weather is one thing, but the inside of McCormick Place is another. The space is huge, and areas near loading docks and test tracks can feel drafty. A light fleece or hoodie gives you flexibility without weighing you down.
Snacks and Refillable Water
Food lines get long during peak hours, and bottled water inside the venue adds up fast. Toss a few granola bars in your bag and bring a reusable water bottle so you’re not stuck waiting when you’d rather be exploring.
A Portable "Power Hub" for the Road Trip
If you’re coming in from out of state or planning a full Chicago day, hitting the show in the morning, grabbing deep dish pizza for lunch, then making the drive back to the suburbs, battery anxiety can turn into a real mood killer. Between recording 4K videos of concept cars, checking directions, and staying connected throughout the day, phones, cameras, and other devices drain faster than most people expect.
For quick top-ups inside the halls, a power bank in your day bag is the easiest fix for keeping your phone alive while you walk. And for anyone making a true day trip of it, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station is a practical option to keep in your trunk. Unlike small pocket chargers, it has enough capacity to recharge laptops, cameras, and phones multiple times over without constantly juggling cables or outlets. If you’re tailgating in the parking lot or taking a break in your SUV, it’s also powerful enough to run a portable coffee maker for a quick caffeine boost or keep a 12V portable fridge chilled. It works like a portable wall outlet you can bring anywhere, giving you peace of mind during a long Chicago winter day without ever seeing a low battery warning pop up.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Chicago Auto Show is shaping up to be a standout event for car fans of all kinds. With a little planning, from transportation and tickets to the right gear to stay powered throughout the day, you can focus less on logistics and more on exploring the cars you came to see. Take your time, enjoy the experience, and have a great show.
FAQs
1. Is The Chicago Auto Show Still Worth It If You’re Not Buying A Car?
Absolutely. The show is just as much about entertainment as it is about cars. Beyond the vehicles, you’ll find virtual reality simulators, family friendly attractions, pet adoption events, and indoor thrill rides like Camp Jeep. It feels more like a winter festival than a sales floor, which makes it a great way to spend a cold February day in Chicago.
2. What Days Are Usually Less Crowded At The Chicago Auto Show?
Weekdays, especially Monday through Thursday, are noticeably less crowded than opening or closing weekends. If you can swing a Tuesday or Wednesday visit, you’ll deal with shorter lines and much faster access to popular indoor test tracks.
3. How Much Time Should You Plan For The Chicago Auto Show?
Plan on at least four to five hours to see the main displays and try one or two test tracks. If you’re a serious car fan who wants to sit in every vehicle and talk with product specialists, it’s easy to spend a full eight hour day there without feeling rushed.
4. Can You Sit In And Touch The Cars At The Auto Show?
Yes. Most production vehicles on the show floor are unlocked and open for visitors to sit in, touch, and explore. Only select concept cars or ultra high end exotics are typically roped off and view-only.
5. What Does The 20/4/10 Rule Mean When Buying A Car?
The 20/4/10 rule is a simple budgeting guideline: put down at least 20%, finance for no more than four years, and keep total monthly vehicle costs under 10% of your gross income. It’s a common rule of thumb meant to help buyers avoid stretching their budget too thin.
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