The Chicago Auto Show: Everything you Need to Know

The Chicago Auto Show takes place at McCormick Place every February. We've got tips to help you get the most out of your visit.

Rev your engines, because it’s back! The Chicago Auto Show returns to McCormick Place in Chicago for ten days in February.

As someone who’s obsessed with road trips, I look forward to the Chicago Auto Show every year. I see the shiny vehicles and instead of pieces of machinery. I see adventure, possibilities, and the open road.

The Chicago Auto Show is more than a static display of vehicles, although many of them, like the classic Corvette featured below from last year’s summer show, can just sit there and look pretty.

There are interactive exhibits that make it a full, fun day for friends, family, and any driving enthusiast.

Classic 1960 Corvette at the Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show is an annual must-do tradition. Over the years we’ve learned a few things about making it as enjoyable as possible.

Here are our top tips for attending the Chicago Auto Show, and everything you need to know before you go, including how to get discounted tickets and save on parking.

Stay where you play! Find a hotel near McCormick Place

7 Tips for Attending the Chicago Auto Show

Chicago Auto Show 2017

1. Wear comfortable shoes
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America, covering 1.2 million square feet. Be nice to your feet and wear shoes with some decent tread.

Chicago Auto Show

2. Get Discounted Admission by feeding others
Bring three cans of food and you’ll get a Chicago Auto Show coupon for $5 off a full adult admission. You can bring them on Wednesday through Friday.

All food collected will benefit A Safe Haven Foundation. A Safe Haven helps Chicagoans experiencing homelessness become self-sufficient through phased housing, healthy lifestyles, and employment.

Birds eye view of the Chicago Auto Show

3. Take advantage of weekday discounts
Stop by CATA-member new car dealerships to get discounted weekday discounts to the Chicago Auto Show. 

The show’s open until 9pm every weekday except the last day, when it’s open until 8, so even if you have to work during the week you can still take advantage of this offer.

Kia Sorento Hybrid at the Chicago Auto Show

4. Thank you for your service: First Responders / Military Appreciation Day
Are you a first responder or current or former member of the U. S. Military? Attend on February 11 and your ticket is free. Any of your guests will get $5 off adult admission.

First responders include police officers, EMTs, paramedics, and fire fighters.

Acura at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show

5. Get Discounted Parking
If you’re driving to the auto show, parking at McCormick Place is expensive. Check SpotHero to save on parking in Chicago.

6. Know Before You Go
Check out a map of the show floor ahead of time and plot your course. 

Chicago Auto Show

7. Relax and Have Fun!
This is probably the most important tip of all. The show is big and boisterous and loud and c-r-o-w-d-e-d! Allow plenty of time and just relax.

There are going to be a few hundred other people who want the same shot of your dream car, who want to ride the cool Jeep and Dodge Ram tracks, and who want to test out all the new interactive tools.

Think of it like a trip to Great America during the middle of the summer, except you could actually take home these rides!

Chicago Auto Show Details

Here are a few highlights of this year’s Chicago Auto Show, as well as details on how to attend.

When is the 2025 Chicago Auto Show?

The Chicago Auto Show is February 8-17. Its hours are:

  • Feb 8: 10am to 9pm
  • Feb 9: 10am to 6pm
  • Feb 10 – 16: 10am to 9pm
  • Feb 17: 10am to 8pm

Where is the Chicago Auto Show?

The Chicago Auto Show takes place in the South Exhibit Hall at McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616

One of the many Jeeps at the Chicago Auto Show

What indoor tracks will be at the Chicago Auto Show?

Camp Jeep has been a staple at the show since 2005 and is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

This indoor track features a 28-ft. 45-degree ‘mountain’ where passengers experience the extreme off-road and traction capabilities of Jeep’s latest vehicles.

Ford Built Wild showcases the capability of Ford’s Bronco family of vehicles. The highlight is a Bronco off-road course, where visitors will tackle a 38-degree Bronco Mountain.

You’ll feel the thrill of the climb while learning more about impressive Bronco tech like G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) Mode capabilities and technology that makes off-roading even more exciting and intelligent. Riders must be 44″ tall. 

Chicago Drives Electric – Thanks to a partnership with ComEd, the 2025 Chicago Auto Show is expanding the Chicago Drives Electric track from one track to two.

The battery-powered electric vehicle test tracks will allow attendees go for a ride in some of the latest battery-powered electric vehicles. Participating Manufacturers include:

  • Chevrolet
  • Dodge
  • Ford
  • Jeep
  • Kia
  • Toyota

West Track:

  • Volkswagen
  • BMW
  • Cadillac
  • Polestar
  • Rivian
  • VinFast
  • Volkswagen

What cars can I take for an Outdoor Test Drive?

Sport Bronco riding the Ford Built Wild Track

The 2025 Chicago Auto Show will offer attendees the opportunity to get behind the wheel for a test drive. Test drives operate every day.

Participating manufacturers include:

  • Ford
  • Subaru
  • Tesla
  • Stellantis brands including: Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram.

How much is the 2025 Chicago Auto Show?

Tickets to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show are $17 for adults, $12 seniors for 62+, and $12 children 4 to 12.

Can I purchase tickets to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show at the door?

Yes, you can purchase tickets to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show at the door. McCormick Place is cashless, so bring a credit or debit card.

Yellow Ford Bronco at the Chicago Auto Show

Can I purchase food and drink at the 2025 Chicago Auto Show?

Absolutely! There are vendors on the show floor.

Can I bring my own food to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show?

Yes, you can bring food and beverages to the Chicago Auto Show. However, outside alcohol is not permitted.

Can I get a drink at the show?

Yes. They have alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Where is Chicago Auto Show parking?

As mentioned above, you can find discounted parking with SpotHero. However, if you’re looking for something closer, you can park on-site at McCormick Place.

There are three McCormick Place Lots. Lot A is a 6-level garage with a covered walkway to McCormick Place, Wintrust Arena, Marriott Marquis, and Hyatt Regency McCormick Place.

Lot B is an outdoor parking lot, and Lot C is an underground garage.

There are no in-and-out privileges at these lots.

Hotels Near the Chicago Auto Show

Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Location, location, location. You can’t get a better location for a hotel near the convention center than Hyatt Regency McCormick Place–it’s in the name!

This hotel connects to the convention center and is the official hotel for the Chicago Auto Show.

Check rates and reserve a room.

Marriott Marquis Chicago, hotel near McCormick Place
Marriott Marquis Chicago

More hotels near the Chicago Auto Show:

  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place
  • Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place
  • Hampton Inn Chicago McCormick Place
  • Marriott Marquis Chicago