I often wonder how many people use the auto show as an opportunity to actually buy their next vehicle. Regardless, people love making their way to the auto show — sometimes every year and sometimes occasionally. And sometimes it’s someone’s first time. The Auto Show is held in many major cities throughout the U.S., including Detroit, New York, Miami, Los Angeles.

But I’m a Chicagoan, and the Chicago Auto Show is known as the largest show in North America. It’s held each year at McCormick Place, usually in February, and it’s hosted in what is basically my backyard. So, I completely enjoy visiting when I can. It’s a chance to check out the latest cars, trucks and other vehicles.

It’s also an opportunity to get a hands on experience — touching the vehicle, sitting inside it, seeing the latest technology, learning about electric and hybrid vehicles, standing in line to get a test track drive. Sometimes you get a chance to hear the story of a celebrity race driver. All this, without the high pressure sales experience at the car dealer.

Still, I think there are many deals to be had at the auto show. Let me share what you need to know about the Chicago Auto Show.

Did You Know?

The first Chicago Auto Show took place March 23-30, 1901. And they apparently were likely among the first electric powered vehicles. It was organized by Motor Age magazine, featured an indoor track where attendees could test drive 10 vehicles: five electric-powered, three steam-powered, and two gasoline-powered. This, according to the Chicago Auto Show’s Wikipedia page.

What Can You Expect at 2025 Chicago Auto Show?

The Chicago Auto Show typically features hundreds vehicles from dozens of manufacturers. For me, it has been two years since I visited. I was surprised to see the show has reduced in size to one exhibit hall (in past years, it filled two). My gut says that it’s likely due to some marketing decisions. Still, that may disappoint some of those who go in 2025.

But you will vehicles that span a wide range of categories, including convertibles, crossovers, concepts, electric vehicles, luxury cars, pickups, sports cars, and supercars. Subaru will unveil two new SUVs this year.

Search here to see if your favorite vehicle(s) will be at the Chicago Auto Show.

My favorite auto show find? The chance to slide into the 2024 BMW 7600xi Drive Sedan. Now that’s a luxury concept. At a price tag of $121,300 — and the options can go up from there. Take a look inside and you’ll sense all the options, but the standouts to me included the multiple massage seat options available to all seats — driver, passenger and back passengers. It also has heated console and door handle panels, and ambient lighting that’s preset to music options. You’ll want to check that out.

The Chicago Auto Show 2025 also has Jeep this year, which is a win. And business travelers will find a range of vehicles to experience — making it a better buying experience since many likely go to check out what’s available and then likely go home and see purchase options online.

Other insights? The Midwest Automotive Media Association has identified its 2025 finalists for favorite vehicles of the year:

  • Family Vehicle: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD Luxury
  • Vehicle: 2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige AWD Off-Roader: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • Pickup Truck: 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel
  • Performance Vehicle: 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N
  • Affordable Vehicle: 2025 Honda Civic Si
  • Plug-In Vehicle: 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD

Exhibits, attractions and events include:

  • Overlanding Chicago: A new exhibit focusing on outdoor adventures, featuring specialty vendors, off-road accessories, and demonstrations.
  • Camp Jeep Test Track: The popular Camp Jeep returns, allowing attendees to experience Jeep vehicles in simulated off-road conditions.
  • Toyota Miles Per Hour Run: Scheduled for February 9, this event combines fitness and fun on the auto show track.
  • Friday Night Flights Craft Beer Tasting: On February 14, enjoy a selection of craft beers in a unique auto show setting.
2025 Chicago Auto Show Details

The show opens up Saturday, Feb. 8, and runs through Monday, Feb. 17. Keep the show times in mind:

  • Open every day at 10 a.m.
  • Feb. 8 & Feb. 10-16, Closes at 9 p.m.
  • Feb. 9, Closes at 6 p.m.
  • Feb. 17, Closes at 8 p.m.

Chicago Auto Show Tickets
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Organizers suggest that attendees should purchase tickets in advance. Tickets will also be available at our McCormick Place ticket booths on public show days. McComick Place is a cashless facility. Credit and debit cards only. (Show box office closes one hour before the show closes.)

  • $17 for adults
  • $12 for seniors aged 62 and older
  • $12 for children 4-12
  • Free Admission for children 3 and younger when accompanied by a paying adult. Family members only.

Traveling to Chicago to visit the auto show? Check out our Chicago Travel Review to learn more about what to do in Chicago.