The last three months of the year don’t get a lot of love from the automotive community. The weather isn’t great in most of the country, and a lot of people are focusing on school or the holidays. Still, fall and early winter shows are out there, so if you’re looking to escape the drudgery this fall, head to one of these shows.
New Hampshire Auto Show, Oct 24 – 26
No one really thinks of Bedford, NH as a hotbed of automotive activity. For the most part, they’re right, but once a year it seems all of New England gets together under the giant roof of the New Hampshire Sportsplex. Sure, the goal is for dealers to get you excited about their new inventory, but the show is sponsored by Motor Trend and offers unique features like test drives and a traditional judged car show.
Tampa Bay International Auto Show, Nov 14 – 16
Tampa loves their cars, and the more expensive/flashy, the better. Whether you are looking for a Kia Sedona or a Lamborghini Aventador, Tampa has it all on display. There’s a cool, classic feel to the layout, as if it were an auto show from the ‘50s, but not in a bad way. You can get up-close and personal, while essentially window shopping without the sales pressure. Sweet live events offer a look at automotive art, like pin striping.
Nashville International Auto Show, Nov 21 - 23
While the Nashville Nats are a great time in the spring, the international show is just as large, and coming up much sooner. It’s so good, the DuPont Registry shows up and covers it. There’s everything from the Toyota Yaris to the Porsche 918, and everything in between. There is everything from classic muscle cars, and local old school public service vehicles, and last year a super rare Ferrari F-40 LM showed up. Kids (and kids at heart) with enjoy the driving simulator.
Las Vegas International Auto Show, Nov 28 – 30
Sin City hosts several excellent shows each year, but unlike SEMA, this one is open to the public. While it is the most expensive show on this list, at $18, you do get what you pay for. It’s hard to find a show with more exotics than this one, and everything from the layout to the “booth professionals” are perfect. There is a section for modified rides, including motorcycles, and lots of hands-on activities and freebies for the kids.
Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov 21 - 30
LA’s presence in the auto show circuit has taken a dramatic upswing over the last 10 or 15 years. Once an “also ran” to Detroit, the fantastic November weather, and trend-setting influence have helped the LA show gain prominence as one of the very best shows in the US, at any time of year. There is a large presence from eve3ry manufacturer, even the Chinese, and LA even debuts some new models and concept cars. Want to see a new car before anyone else? Hit this show.