If your little ones are obsessed with all things trains, planes and automobiles, then a trip to the annual Chicago Auto Show is a must for your next family outing. The longest running auto exhibition in the country will return to McCormick Place Feb. 10-19 with nearly 1,000 vehicles on display.
Families can watch experimental car demonstrations, view antique and collector cars, check out the latest electric vehicles and enjoy many other program offerings. Ready to roll? First, buckle up. Then, read our tips and ideas to ensure this fun event is a smooth ride for the entire family.
Quick details about the Chicago Auto Show
@chicagoparent Buckle up! The nation’s largest automobile show is back! 🏎️🏁 If you or your little one is obsessed with cars, monster trucks or all things on four wheels, then @Chicago Auto Show is the perfect place to go! ➡️ The Auto Show will be at McCormick Place South Hall until Monday, Feb. 19, 2024. The show opens every day at 10 a.m. ➡️ Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for kids 4-12 and seniors 62+. Kids 3 and under are FREE. ➡️ Some of the exciting experiences for kids include taking a spin around the test track, a remote control monster truck course, race car simulators and first glimpses at the newest vehicles on the market. ➡️ Check out the Chicago Auto Show events calendar and plan your visit around exciting programs for families. Daily Herald Family Day is on Monday, Feb. 19! ➡️ Get more tips on taking kids to the Chicago Auto Show in the family guide on our website. 🎥: @Nikki 🍒 #chicagoautoshow #thingstodoinchicago #thingstodoinchicagowithkids ♬ Life is a Highway (From “Cars”) – Just Disney
- Address: South Hall, 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago
- Cost: $17/adults, $12/ seniors 62+ and kids 4-12, free/kids 3 and under.
- Getting there: Several CTA buses, including the 3 and 21, have stops near McCormick Place. The auto show is accessible by the Cermak-Chinatown red line, Cermak-McCormick green line and McCormick Place Metra and South Shore train stations.
- Parking: There is on-site parking available from $17-30, depending on the day, time and lot.
Kid-friendly activities at the Chicago Auto Show:
- Almost all of the vehicles on the concourse are unlocked and ready for your little one to hop in the driver’s seat. Your kiddo will love pretending to drive the flashy new cars.
- No driver’s license? No problem! Kids of all ages will love the racing simulator areas.
- Kids 42 inches or taller can ride along with professional drivers on the Chicago Auto Show indoors and outdoors test tracks.
- Score savings on Sunday, Feb. 11. Discounted Game Day tickets can be purchased online. Attendees who wear professional or collegiate sporting apparel on-site are also eligible for a discount.
- Students of all ages can get inspired on Automative Career Day on Tuesday, Feb. 13 from 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m. The educational event will highlight various paths available to students within the automotive industry.
- Daily Herald Family Day is on Monday, Feb. 19 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Check the website for a full list of activities.
Tips for visiting the Chicago Auto Show with kids
- Feel free to pack snacks — or even an entire meal — if your picky eaters may not like the dining options on site. Guests are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, but there’s also Connie’s Pizza, Mimis Churro and other options like burger joints and cafe offerings. If you want a caffeine fix, there are Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks locations in the building.
- In the market for a new family vehicle? Check the events schedule to learn when you can take a cruise in your next automobile. Only kids 12 and up are allowed to come along for the test ride.
- Family restrooms are located in the Main Concourse.
What to do nearby:
- Not far from McCormick Place, Chicago’s Chinatown offers delicious food, beautiful artwork, cute shops and unique cultural experiences. Grab a bite to eat at Joy Yee or Kong Dog for kid-friendly cuisine, or dine at Original Triple Crown Restaurant for an authentic experience. Try rolled ice cream at Legend Tasty House or pick out a pastry at Saint Anna Bakery or Tous Les Jours for dessert.
- McCormick Place is just a train ride away from Chicago’s downtown. Introduce your little explorer to Chicago landmarks by visiting the Art Institute, the Bean, Millennium Park or the Willis Tower for the first time.
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