How to Visit Chicago Auto Show McCormick

The Chicago Auto Show, held annually at McCormick Place, is the largest and longest-running auto show in North America. For automotive enthusiasts, industry professionals, and families seeking an immersive experience with the latest vehicles, this event offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations, test-drive next-generation models, and witness the future of mobility—all under one roof. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, McCormick Place serves as the epicenter of automotive culture in the United States. Understanding how to navigate this massive event efficiently can transform a casual visit into a memorable, informed, and even purchase-ready experience. This comprehensive guide walks you through every critical step, from planning and ticketing to maximizing your time on the show floor, ensuring you make the most of your visit to the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place requires more than just showing up on the day of the event. With over 1 million square feet of exhibit space, hundreds of vehicles from more than 40 manufacturers, and tens of thousands of attendees, preparation is essential. Follow this detailed, step-by-step process to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience.

Step 1: Confirm Show Dates and Hours

The Chicago Auto Show typically runs for ten days in February, with public days beginning on the second Saturday of the month and concluding on the following Sunday. However, dates can vary slightly year to year. Always verify the official website—chicagoautoshow.com—for the exact schedule. Public hours are generally from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Press and industry preview days occur before public access, so ensure you’re attending during public hours unless you have special credentials.

Step 2: Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets can be bought online through the official Chicago Auto Show website or authorized resellers. Buying in advance saves both time and money. General admission tickets are typically priced between $12 and $15, with discounts available for seniors, students, and military personnel. Children under 12 often enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Avoid purchasing tickets at the door if possible—lines can exceed 45 minutes during peak hours. Online tickets allow for expedited entry through dedicated lanes, reducing wait times significantly.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Mccormick Place is located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60616. The venue is easily accessible via public transit, car, rideshare, or bike. If driving, reserve parking in advance through the official parking portal on the show’s website. On-site parking options include the McCormick Place South Garage, North Garage, and the adjacent Hyatt Regency garage. Rates range from $20 to $35 per vehicle, depending on proximity and demand. Consider arriving early to secure a closer spot.

For public transit users, the CTA Red Line stops at Roosevelt Station, a 15-minute walk from the main entrance. The CTA 12 and 147 buses also serve the area. Rideshare drop-off points are clearly marked at the Lake Shore Drive entrance. Bicyclists can use the secure bike valet service located near the entrance, free of charge during show hours.

Step 4: Download the Official Mobile App

The Chicago Auto Show mobile app is a critical tool for navigating the event. Available on iOS and Android, the app provides real-time floor maps, exhibitor listings, show schedules, interactive guides, and push notifications for special events or last-minute changes. You can search for specific brands, view vehicle specs, locate restrooms and food outlets, and even reserve time slots for test drives. Download the app before arrival and enable location services for full functionality.

Step 5: Map Out Your Must-See Exhibits

Mccormick Place spans multiple halls, each dedicated to different segments of the automotive industry. Hall A typically features luxury and performance brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. Hall B showcases American manufacturers such as Ford, Chevrolet, and Jeep. Hall C highlights electric vehicles and sustainability innovations, often featuring Tesla, Rivian, and Hyundai’s Ioniq lineup. Hall D is dedicated to commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and aftermarket accessories.

Before your visit, identify 5–7 brands or vehicle types you’re most interested in. Prioritize vehicles with live demonstrations, such as off-road capabilities or autonomous driving features. Check the app or website for featured vehicles—each year, the show debuts 15–20 new models, including global premieres. Mark these on your map to avoid missing them.

Step 6: Reserve Test Drives Early

Test drives are among the most sought-after experiences at the show. Many manufacturers offer on-site test drives on specially designed tracks located outside the main halls. However, slots fill up quickly—sometimes within hours of the show opening. Visit the test drive kiosks located near Halls A and C as soon as you arrive, or use the app to reserve a time slot. Be prepared to provide a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. Some brands may require you to be 21 or older.

Step 7: Bring the Right Gear

While the show is indoors, McCormick Place is a vast, climate-controlled environment that can still be crowded and tiring. Wear comfortable walking shoes—expect to cover 5–8 miles over the course of the day. Bring a portable phone charger, as the app and GPS will drain your battery. A light jacket is advisable, as interior temperatures can fluctuate. Avoid large bags or backpacks; only small purses or waist packs are permitted for security reasons. Cameras and smartphones are welcome, but tripods and professional equipment require prior approval.

Step 8: Navigate the Show Floor Strategically

Start your visit in the least crowded hall—often Hall D or the Innovation Zone—to avoid initial bottlenecks. Work your way toward the more popular exhibits as the day progresses. Use the app’s real-time crowd heat map to avoid congestion. Take breaks at designated rest zones near food courts or seating areas. Don’t rush—spend at least 10–15 minutes with each vehicle you’re seriously considering. Engage with the brand representatives; they are trained to answer technical questions and often provide exclusive show-only details.

Step 9: Attend Live Demos and Presentations

Throughout the day, the show hosts live presentations on the main stage in Hall B. These include manufacturer unveilings, engineering panels, and sustainability forums. Check the app schedule and arrive 15 minutes early to secure seating. Many presentations include giveaways, such as branded merchandise or discount vouchers for future purchases. Don’t miss the “Future of Mobility” talks, which often feature insights from automotive designers and AI developers.

Step 10: Collect Information and Follow Up

Take notes or photos of vehicle specifications, pricing, and features that interest you. Many exhibitors offer QR codes on display cards that link to detailed brochures, financing options, or dealership locator tools. Collect business cards or scan digital brochures via the app. After the show, follow up with your preferred dealerships using the information gathered. Many offer show-exclusive incentives valid for 30–60 days after the event.

Best Practices

Maximizing your visit to the Chicago Auto Show isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how you engage with the experience. These best practices ensure you leave with valuable knowledge, memorable moments, and informed decisions.

Arrive Early or Late to Avoid Crowds

Weekend mornings (10 a.m.–12 p.m.) are the busiest. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon or early evening. After 5 p.m., crowds thin significantly, allowing for more one-on-one time with representatives and better photo opportunities. If you’re only attending for one day, choose Tuesday or Wednesday for the best balance of accessibility and variety.

Engage with Brand Representatives

Don’t just look at the cars—talk to the people behind them. Brand ambassadors are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and often have insider information about upcoming releases, special editions, or dealer incentives not advertised online. Ask about warranty terms, maintenance packages, and technology features like infotainment systems or driver-assist capabilities. Their insights can help you distinguish between marketing hype and real-world performance.

Focus on Technology, Not Just Design

Modern vehicles are as much about software as they are about steel. Pay attention to advancements in connectivity—wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto integration, over-the-air updates, voice recognition, and AI-powered navigation. Test the responsiveness of touchscreens and voice commands. These features impact daily usability far more than paint color or wheel design.

Compare Electric and Hybrid Models Side-by-Side

With EVs making up nearly 30% of new vehicle displays, it’s critical to compare range, charging times, and infrastructure compatibility. Ask representatives how their vehicles perform in cold weather, which affects battery efficiency. Look for vehicles with bidirectional charging capabilities—some newer models can power homes during outages. This feature is increasingly valuable for urban and suburban buyers.

Use the Show to Research, Not Just Shop

Even if you’re not planning to buy immediately, the Chicago Auto Show is one of the best places to compare vehicles across brands. You can evaluate interior space, seat comfort, cargo capacity, and visibility in a way that virtual tours cannot replicate. Take measurements with your phone’s ruler app or note how easily you can buckle a child seat. These details matter more than horsepower numbers.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

With so much to see, it’s easy to forget to rest. Drink water regularly—there are free water refill stations throughout the venue. Use rest areas to sit, reflect, and organize your notes. Avoid caffeine-heavy drinks that can lead to energy crashes. A 10-minute break every 90 minutes will help you retain information and enjoy the experience longer.

Be Mindful of Photography Rules

While personal photography is encouraged, some manufacturers restrict flash photography near sensitive displays or prototype vehicles. Always ask before taking photos of interior cabins or proprietary technology. Avoid blocking walkways or gathering large groups around exhibits—this slows down the flow for others.

Follow Up Within 48 Hours

Memory fades quickly. Within two days of your visit, compile your notes, compare models side-by-side, and reach out to dealerships with specific questions. Mention that you visited the Chicago Auto Show—many dealers offer show-only discounts or complimentary service packages for attendees. This small step can save you thousands.

Tools and Resources

Success at the Chicago Auto Show hinges on leveraging the right tools and resources before, during, and after your visit. Below is a curated list of essential digital and physical resources to enhance your experience.

Official Chicago Auto Show Website

The primary source for all event information is chicagoautoshow.com. Here, you’ll find the most up-to-date show schedule, exhibitor list, ticket purchasing portal, parking reservations, and press releases. The site also features a virtual preview tour, allowing you to explore the layout and featured vehicles before arriving.

Chicago Auto Show Mobile App

Download the free official app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. It includes: interactive floor maps, real-time wait times, test drive reservations, exhibitor search by category, and push notifications for special events. The app syncs with your ticket, so you can access digital passes directly from your phone.

CTA Trip Planner

For public transit users, the Chicago Transit Authority’s trip planner (transitchicago.com) provides real-time bus and train schedules, route adjustments, and accessibility information. Use the “Plan a Trip” tool to input McCormick Place as your destination.

Vehicle Comparison Tools

After the show, use online tools like Edmunds.com, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), and CarGurus to compare the vehicles you saw. Input the exact trim levels and options you noted. These platforms provide real-world pricing, fuel economy estimates, and owner satisfaction ratings that complement the show’s marketing materials.

Automotive Review Channels

Supplement your in-person experience with expert reviews. YouTube channels like Doug DeMuro, MotorTrend, and Car and Driver often publish show-specific content within days of the event. Watch their walkthroughs of new models to gain deeper insights into features you may have overlooked.

Google Maps and Street View

Before your visit, use Google Maps to virtually tour McCormick Place. The 360-degree Street View feature lets you walk through the main entrances, identify key halls, and plan your route. You can also check nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels for pre- or post-show plans.

Vehicle Specifications Databases

For technical enthusiasts, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database (nhtsa.gov) provides official safety ratings, recall information, and crash test data for every vehicle displayed. Cross-reference this with what the exhibitors tell you to ensure accuracy.

Automotive Forums and Communities

Join Reddit communities like r/cars or r/evs to ask questions about models you saw. Enthusiasts often share firsthand experiences with new technology, reliability concerns, or hidden features. These forums can provide honest feedback that sales reps might not mention.

PDF Floor Plans and Show Brochures

Download and print the official PDF floor plan from the website. Highlight your must-see booths and note directions between them. Many attendees find printed maps easier to navigate than digital ones in crowded environments.

Weather and Traffic Apps

Check the local forecast using AccuWeather or the National Weather Service. Chicago winters can be harsh—snow or ice may impact travel. Use Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic alerts. If you’re driving, plan an alternate route in case of delays on Lake Shore Drive.

Real Examples

Real-world experiences from past attendees illustrate how strategic planning leads to better outcomes at the Chicago Auto Show. Below are three detailed case studies highlighting different visitor profiles and how they maximized their time.

Case Study 1: The First-Time Family Visitor

Maria and her husband, both first-time car buyers, visited the show with their two children (ages 8 and 11). They purchased tickets online two weeks in advance and downloaded the app. They arrived at 3 p.m. on a Tuesday to avoid crowds. Their goal: find a reliable, family-friendly SUV under $35,000.

Using the app, they filtered exhibitors by “Family SUV” and “Under $35K.” They focused on the Honda Passport, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride. Each representative demonstrated the rear-seat entertainment systems and gave them a demo of the hands-free liftgate. Maria’s kids loved the “magic seat” feature in the Telluride, which allowed them to fold seats into different configurations. They reserved a test drive for the Telluride and completed it in 20 minutes. After the show, they used KBB to compare pricing and contacted the local dealership, mentioning they’d seen it at the show. They received a $1,000 discount and free maintenance for three years.

Case Study 2: The EV Enthusiast

James, a software engineer and electric vehicle advocate, attended the show specifically to evaluate the latest EV advancements. He arrived at 10 a.m. on Friday and spent the first hour in Hall C, where 12 new EV models debuted. He used the app to reserve test drives for the Lucid Air, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Hyundai Ioniq 7. He asked detailed questions about battery chemistry, regenerative braking efficiency, and charging compatibility with third-party networks.

He spoke with engineers from Rivian and learned about their upcoming “smart charging” software that optimizes home charging based on grid load. He took photos of the specs, later cross-referencing them with the NHTSA database. He also attended the “Grid-Integrated EVs” panel, which discussed vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology. Two weeks later, he ordered a Ford Mustang Mach-E, citing the show’s live demo as his deciding factor.

Case Study 3: The Industry Professional

Linda, a product manager for a mobility startup, attended the show with a professional badge. She focused on the Innovation Zone and the Mobility Tech Expo, where startups showcased autonomous delivery robots, smart parking sensors, and AI-driven driver behavior analytics. She collected 17 business cards, attended three pitch sessions, and scheduled three follow-up meetings with exhibitors.

She used the app to map out the most relevant booths and timed her visits to coincide with live demos. She documented each technology’s scalability, cost structure, and integration potential. After the show, she compiled a report for her company’s R&D team, which led to a pilot partnership with a startup offering adaptive lighting systems. Her visit directly influenced her company’s product roadmap for the next fiscal year.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog to the Chicago Auto Show?

No, pets are not permitted inside McCormick Place, except for certified service animals. If you require a service animal, notify the venue at least 48 hours in advance for proper access arrangements.

Are there food options inside the show?

Yes. Multiple food courts and kiosks are located throughout the halls, offering a variety of options including sandwiches, pizza, sushi, vegan meals, coffee, and desserts. Prices are typical for large convention centers. You may also bring a sealed bottled water and small snacks, but full meals are not allowed.

Is the Chicago Auto Show wheelchair accessible?

Yes. McCormick Place is fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchair rentals are available at the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. All exhibit halls, restrooms, and elevators are accessible. Service animals are permitted, and quiet rooms are available for sensory-sensitive visitors.

Do I need to print my ticket?

No. Digital tickets on your smartphone are accepted at all entry points. Ensure your device is charged and the barcode is clearly visible. You may also use the app to display your ticket.

Can I buy a car at the show?

You cannot complete a purchase on-site. However, most manufacturers have dealership representatives who can facilitate the entire buying process, including financing, trade-in evaluations, and delivery scheduling. Many offer exclusive show pricing and incentives.

How long does it take to see everything?

It’s nearly impossible to see every vehicle in one day. Most visitors spend 3–5 hours at the show. If you’re focused and efficient, you can see the top 10–15 models in 2 hours. For a comprehensive experience, plan for a full day or visit on multiple days.

Are there any age restrictions?

No. The show is family-friendly and welcomes all ages. Children under 12 enter free with a paying adult. Some test drives require drivers to be 21 or older with a valid license.

Can I bring a stroller?

Yes. Strollers are permitted and encouraged for families with young children. Wide aisles and elevators make navigation easy. Stroller parking is available near restrooms and seating areas.

What happens if the show is canceled due to weather?

The Chicago Auto Show rarely cancels due to weather. McCormick Place is a climate-controlled facility, and the event proceeds regardless of snow or cold. If extreme conditions threaten safety, updates will be posted on the official website and app.

Is parking free?

No. On-site parking is not free. Rates range from $20 to $35 per vehicle. Consider using public transit or rideshare to save on parking costs.

Conclusion

Visiting the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place is more than a day out—it’s an immersive education in automotive innovation, design, and future mobility. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an EV enthusiast, or an industry professional, the show offers something of value to everyone. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from advance planning and smart navigation to engaging with experts and leveraging digital tools—you can transform a simple visit into a strategic, rewarding, and even purchase-defining experience.

The key to success lies in preparation. Don’t rely on spontaneity. Use the official app, map your route, reserve test drives early, and take notes. The cars on display are more than machines—they’re the culmination of years of engineering, design, and market research. Your visit is your chance to witness that evolution firsthand.

As electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and sustainable materials continue to redefine the automotive landscape, the Chicago Auto Show remains the most critical platform for experiencing these changes in real time. By approaching the event with intention and curiosity, you don’t just see the future of transportation—you become part of its story.