Gear Up for Family Fun at the Chicago Auto Show 2025

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. 8-17 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. 

Read more: Best Things to Do with Chicagoland Kids This February

Things to do with kids at the Chicago Auto Show

• Hop in the driver’s seat! 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. 
• Race like a pro. No driver’s license? No problem! Kids of all ages will love the racing simulator areas. 
• Experience a thrill ride. Kids 42 inches or taller can ride along with professional drivers on the Chicago Auto Show indoors and outdoors test tracks.
• Save big on Game Day! Score savings on Sunday, Feb. 9. Discounted Game Day tickets can be purchased online.
• Explore auto careers. Students of all ages can get inspired on Automotive Career Day on Wednesday, Feb. 12. The educational event will highlight various paths available to students within the automotive industry.

Tips for visiting the Chicago Auto Show with kids 

• Pack your own snacks. Guests can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks, but on-site options include Connie’s Pizza, Mimis Churro, burger joints and cafes.
• Grab a coffee break. Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks are available inside the building.
• Test your next car. 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. 
• Where are the restsrooms? Family restrooms are conveniently located in the Main Concourse.

Quick details about the Chicago Auto Show

• 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. 

This article was recently updated on Jan. 29, 2025, by Chicago Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The update reflects the 2025 event offerings. Questions? Please reach out to our editorial team at editor@chicagoparent.com.

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