10 Best Auto Shows in Illinois!
Car collectors gather at Illinois numerous auto shows to show off their sweet rides and admire the incredible automotive “eye candy” on display. Illinois’ car shows proudly showcase some of the finest, latest, and most diverse arrays of vehicles of all ages, makes, and models in family-friendly venues throughout the state. The best auto shows in Illinois welcome spectators with top-notch car displays and automotive-related activities that appeal to even the most discerning car connoisseurs.
Chicago Auto Show, Chicago, IL
Held at McCormick Place each February, the Chicago Auto Show is a renowned three-day event recognized as North America’s largest auto show. This long-standing show has been boasting hundreds of vehicles of all makes and models annually for over 115 years! This one-of-a-kind auto event also showcases antique and collector vehicles and offers interactive exhibits, test drives and tracks, dining options, automotive accessories, special appearances, events, and much more.
International Illinois Route 66 Mother Road Festival, Springfield, IL
Experience the nostalgia of Route 66 at the International Illinois Route 66 Mother road Festival. Held in historic downtown Springfield each September, this special event features around 2,000 classic cars for the cruise event, plus many attractions including live music, a burnout competition, pageant, farmers market, and so much more. There are also lots of photo opportunities with historic Route 66 landmarks.
All-Wheels Drive-In Car Show, Alton, IL
Held each June, the All-Wheels Drive-In Car Show showcases upwards of 200 classic cars, motorcycles, and hot rods each year. This free-admission show gives out trophies in nearly 40 classes plus additional speciality wards. The first 125 participants also receive dash plaques and goodie bags. There’s also live music, vendor displays, great food, a sidewalk sale, pin-up contest, and 50-50 drawing.
Champagne All-British Car Show at David Davis Mansion, Bloomington, IL
The Champagne All-British Car Festival takes place each June at the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site. For over 30 years, this annual charitable event has been showcasing all types of British cars and motorcycles on display. Attendees can view over 125 classic British cars including models like Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Mini, Morgan, and MG, representing many decades of British motoring history. Participants also have the opportunity to receive awards as this show is judged by certified national judges.
Annual Vintage Car Show, Wheaton, IL
For nearly 70 years, the Antique Automobile Club of America's Annual Vintage Car Show has been showcasing all makes and models of vehicles. The event is held at Cantigny Park, on the grounds of the Robert R. McCormick Mansion. Cars are judged in eleven classes or just simply displayed. A concert on the lawn also takes place, featuring a mixture of classics and swing music.
Annual Lakes Community Car Show, Lake Villa, IL
The Lakes Community Car Show is a mega car event with spots for approximately 500 vehicles! All makes and models of vehicles are welcome, and trophies are awarded in numerous classes. This free-admission show also provides food and vendors. Proceeds from this event benefit the Lakes Community High School, which is where the event is held.
Tuner Galleria Chicago Car Show, Rosemont, IL
For the past 14 years, Tuner Galleria has been considered Chicago’s season opening car show. This exciting show features traditional classics, muscle cars, hot rods, and other specialty vehicles plus celebrity appearances, vendor booths, radio control car drifting, and lifestyle activities. The event is held at the Donald E Stevens Convention Center each March.
North Ave Car Show, Bartlett, IL
The North Ave Car Show welcomes all cars, motorcycles, at trucks at Bartlett Park each June. The event includes an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, food trucks, live music, beer tent, and a craft show. All of the proceeds benefit the Ignite the Courage non-profit charity, which provides resources for community members and local first responders.
Classic Car Show, Geneva, IL
Geneva’s Classic Car Show takes place every Thursday evening in July and August at the historic downtown Kane County Courthouse. Car collectors and enthusiasts gather to ogle the beautiful rides and vote for their favorites in various categories. Spectators come from near and far to experience great automobiles, food, and music in a relaxed and friendly community setting.
Annual Waterloo Optimist Club Car Show, Waterloo, IL
Held each June in the heart of Waterloo, the Annual Waterloo Optimist Club Car Show takes place in the historic, charming downtown square and always features a wide variety of unique vehicles and offers food vendors. This family-friendly show helps fund programs for the local youth and is hosted by the Waterloo Optimist Club.
