Chicago Auto Show 2025

The Chicago Auto Show is the biggest trade event in the automobile industry, displaying a wide range of vehicles—sports cars, concept cars, and cars that are either newly manufactured or have emerged recently. It provides opportunities for exchange where visitors are exposed to lots of information and choices, which makes the show an ultimate experience for all car fans. First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the last one of the oldest auto shows on the continent that is still held today.

Location

The Chicago Auto Show is held every year in February in the McCormick Place complex. It occupies more than 1 million square feet or 92,903 square meters. Exhibitions include world and North American introductions, domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks, SUVs, and experimental concept cars. Every year, there are about 1,000 vehicles on display. Also, there are exhibits for accessories, competition vehicles, and antique and collector cars.

2025 Chicago Auto Show Highlights

The 2025 Chicago Auto Show promises a thrilling lineup of attractions and experiences, headlined by the expanded Chicago Drives Electric indoor EV test tracks. Visitors can ride in the latest electric vehicles from a wide array of brands while exploring the EV Education Hub, where experts address topics like charging solutions, range anxiety, and maintenance. New to the show is Overlanding Chicago, a dedicated space showcasing the adventurous overlanding lifestyle, complete with specialty vehicles, outdoor gear, and live demonstrations. For families, the Family Fun Zone offers an engaging area for children aged 2-16, ensuring a fun experience for all ages. Exclusive VIP tours, featuring insider insights into family vehicles, SUVs, EVs, and more, provide a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the event.

Special Events

The Chicago Auto Show also hosts several themed events. Runners can kick off their experience on February 9 with the Toyota Miles Per Hour Run, a 2.4-mile indoor loop at McCormick Place. First Responders & Military Appreciation Day on February 11 honors heroes with free or discounted entry for accompanying guests. Automotive Career Day on February 12 invites students to explore industry opportunities, while a Food Drive from February 12-14 supports A Safe Haven’s Food Bank, offering discounted tickets to participants. On February 14, Chicago Friday Night Flights combines craft beer sampling with full access to the auto show for a festive conclusion to the week.

Tickets & Parking

Adult general Admission to Chicago Auto Show is $17. Seniors (62+) pay $12. Children (age 4-12) pay $12. Children under 3 get in for free. The show runs from 10 am every day. McCormick Place offers on-site parking. A, B & C. Lot A & C are $25. Lot B is $16.

History

The first "official" Chicago Automobile Show in 1901 was produced by Samuel Miles. The event was staged in March and featured an indoor track for attendees, test drive for ten vehicles, five electric powered cars, three steam-powered, and two with gasoline engines. About 100 cars were on display. In 1935 The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) became the event's producer and organizer. Also, the show was held twice—in January for the 1935 models, and in November for the 1936 models—after President Franklin Delano Roosevelt recommended to advance the introduction of new automobile models by two months. The Chicago Auto Show continues to lead as a hub for automotive innovation and community engagement, providing memorable experiences for every attendee.