15 of the Best Car and Auto Shows Across the United States

Baseball is not the only pastime that is a favorite in the United States, attending car and auto shows are high on the fan-favorite list. People flock from different parts of the country to various locales so that they can see some of the most exquisite cars ever made. These same people even transport their classic or exotic cars to shows to show them off. To make sure their vehicles get to where they need to go safely, they would rather instill the help of a professional transport company than to drive it themselves.

We have compiled a list of 15 of the most talked-about car and auto shows across the United States to share with you. A-1 Auto Transport understands what is necessary to get a classic or exotic car where it needs to go, which is why we offer special services for these types of prized vehicles.

#1-The Great American Trucking Show

Every year in late August, over 50,000 truckers go to the Kay Hutchinson Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, for The Great American Trucking Show (GATS). GATS is organized by Randell and Reilly, who opens the show from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily for spectators.

The show features over 500 exhibitions that represent things like trailers, engines, manufacture, and components of the trucking industry. Due to the trucking industry keeping the economy afloat, this show has evolved over time to feel more like an industry trade show, attracting trucking professionals and enthusiasts. At this time, GATS has canceled all of its 2020 events.

#2-Corvettes at Carlisle

At the end of August, each year, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, becomes overrun with Corvettes from every era. Organized by Carlisle Events and held at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, is the Corvettes at Carlisle event. For four days, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., spectators can see over 5,000 Corvettes that represent every era of manufacture.

The show brings about 50,000 fans from all corners of the nation to experience fun events and even a parade through historical Carlisle. The pop-up displays and vendors provide a unique shopping experience with a swap meet style environment during the show.

#3-International Auto Show, Las Vegas

Las Vegas is synonymous with all things shimmer and shine. So it is the only logical solution for Motor Trend Auto Shows Inc. to hold their annual car show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This show is held around the second week of September each year.

The International Auto Show is home to over 350 of the most lavish new cars, prototypes, and trucks. At the show, patrons get to be involved with sitting behind the wheels of their favorite vehicles and even taking them out on a test drive. There is no sales vibe to this show, only pure awe over the car industry.

#4-Car Capital Auto Show

The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum holds its annual auto show one day a year in mid-July. This show takes place at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, Michigan. Merged in one event, the Car Capital Auto Show offers a variety of cars, trucks, and motorcycles for the viewing pleasure of patrons. Vendors help line the streets offering over 500 options where you can find just about anything you need for your car.

Multiple food vendors join the ranks to supply a real array of food to satisfy every appetite. One of the perks of the Car Capital Auto Show is that the ticket is free for professionals in the industry. Unfortunately, the 2020 show has been canceled, but they look forward to reopening in 2021.

#5-Green County RV Show

Although, not quite a classic car show, but it is an auto show for all the RV enthusiasts out there. For three days in mid-July every year, patrons fill the River Spirit Expo for the self-organized Green County RV Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The turn-out for this massive RV event averages 5000 people annually. The event doesn’t just appease the free-spirited RV owner or connoisseurs. It also features boats, trailers, and yachts. The show offers the ability to purchase if you find something you like.

#6-Japanese Classic Car Show

Held annually at Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California, The Japanese Classic Car Show Association US holds the Japanese Classic Car Show in late September. However, they have changed their calendar for it to be held in October 2020 due to recent events. This event is a tribute to the older authentic style of Japanese made cars. Over 500 vehicles are on display from various makes like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Nissan.

With as many as 55 vendors, you can expect to see a few classics like the NA Miatas, Mk3 Supras, and R32 Nissan Skylines. The event has a car auction where you may be able to walk away with your own Japanese made car legend.

#7-Milwaukee Rally Bike Show

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is the home of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Organized by Milwaukee Rally U at the Milwaukee Harley-Davidson, you can feast your eyes upon custom motorcycles and new cutting edge Harley-Davidson prototypes.

But this show is not only inclusive of Harley-Davidsons, for five days in September, but you can also see classic cars, commercial vehicle parts, and motorcycles while enjoying the free live entertainment. Event organizers boast of the event being maximum volume and for a good reason. Thousands of people come to this event every year.

#8-Springfield Swap Meet and Car Show

The Springfield Swap Meet and Car Show is a commodity on the car show circuit. Held at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ohio, the Springfield Swap Meet and Car Show is held multiple times a year. Presently, their 2020 schedule is July, September, and November. Organized by Ohio Swap Meet, you can ensure that you find exactly what you are looking for.

This event is suitable for the whole family. Over 9000 people attend these events each year, allowing for parts vendors, car sales, and plenty of car eye candy to admire. You will find everything on display. Popular are the drag racers, stock cars, vintage racers, and memorabilia.

#9-Little Car Show

Downtown Pacific Grove, California, is the home of the Marina Motorsports Inc. USA’s Little Car Show. Despite the misleading name, The Little Car Show, which is usually held in the middle of August, brings almost 5000 visitors and close to 120 exhibitions.

The one-day car show specializes in makes of little cars that are over 25 years old. These vehicles on display include mini, micro, and vintage vehicles. The show is described as unique, engaging, and creates some exceptional memories. The 2020 show has been canceled, but the August 2021 schedule has been released, and registration is active on their website.

#10-Orange County International Auto Show

The Orange County International Auto Show, held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, is the 8th largest auto show in the United States. Held for four days in late September, Motor Trend Auto Shows Inc. USA provides a trade fair atmosphere for international cars, spare parts, and accessories.

Many of the industry experts and manufacturers use the Orange County International Auto Show to show off new exotics and engines. Many of the popular attractions include 150 test drives, vehicles like the Lamborghini Hurricane to the Ford F150 Raptor, and Jaguar.

#11-Codman Estate Antique Auto Show

For a more intimate antique car show experience, Historic New England USA hosts the Codman Estate Antique Auto Show at the Codman Estate in Lincoln, Massachusetts, mid-July every year. About 1000 attendees show up to the Codman Estate to view around 300 classic and antique cars, motorcycles, and trucks.

The event provides an array of musical entertainment in the jazz genre and museum open houses. Food vendors offer plenty of meals to keep the energy up for this one-day event.

#12-All Ford Show

A true celebration for all things Ford branded, the All Ford Show organized by the North Carolina Transportation Museum USA occurs every year at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, North Carolina.

If you are looking for something to do at the beginning of August, the event will immerse you into a world of Ford auto shows, spare parts, entertainment, and a swap meet. Meet with other Ford enthusiasts to enjoy a true American tradition.

#13-Los Angeles Auto Show

If you are looking for an auto show that puts on a real “show”, the Los Angeles Auto Show organized by Automobility Pty Ltd Australia offers something every member of the family can enjoy (even the ones who don’t care for cars). This ten-day show held at the end of November takes place at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The convention brings over 50,000 people every year and takes up over 1,000,000 square feet over two main halls and what is referred to as “The Garage”, the aftermarket hall. There are hundreds of vehicles available for purchase and free test drives. There is even a kids zone for the little ones to take a break from all the automotive stuff.

#14-Nashville International Auto Show

In late November, you can find yourself at another Motor Trend Auto Shows Inc. USA show at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The Nashville International Auto Show brings up to 50,000 car enthusiasts to Nashville every year for attendance.

Over 350 of the newest cars and trucks come to one convention center providing over 35 test drives and simulators that give an exciting and memorable experience. When exotics and luxury cars are your weak spot, you can see Rolls Royce, Bentley, and Maserati, which offers a nice selection for an auto show.

#15-Miami International Auto Show

Scheduled for the end of February 2021, the Miami International Auto Show, organized by the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, is held at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Florida. The event is ten days long and features various exhibitions for cars ranging from classic to new prototypes.

Over 50,000 auto enthusiasts flood the Miami Beach Convention Center to participate in the Miami International Auto Show. Featuring over 600 exhibitors, the auto show brings various styles from 50s classics to Havana Classics. Leaving everyone with that feeling of nostalgia as they are continuing through the exhibits. Even though this auto show provides the latest trends and new auto manufacture releases, it is known for its largest antique vehicle selection in the country.

Car and Auto Show Transport Tips

When planning to participate in a car or auto show, there are some things that you should factor in. For those who live close to the car show, it may make more sense to drive your car there for an exhibition. A lot of these classic and antique cars are rebuilt for road-worthiness. Doing this will not be recommended if you are attending a car show across the country.

Most classic and antique auto owners will opt to have their vehicle transported by a professional company for the show they participate in. Part of what gives the car its worth is the pristine paint job and the mileage that it has on it. A lot of work goes into classic and antique car restoration, and it is not worth risking the integrity of the vehicle to drive it thousands of miles.

A-1 Auto Transport knows what it takes to transport a classic or antique car across the country. Our services offer only the best for your priceless piece of machinery. With our enclosed transport trailers, you do not have to worry about damage from the elements or road debris messing up your ribbon winning car. Our drivers are among the best in the industry at white-glove services for the classic and antique auto world.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we offer competitive pricing for our transports. Don’t be tempted by a company that may give you a cheaper quote for open-air trailer transport. If they provide this, they do not understand the value of your vehicle like we do. For a free quote on transporting your classic or antique car to the next big auto show, call A-1 Auto Transport, and you can be on your way to showing off your one of a kind vehicle in no time.