ABOUT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW
The Chicago Auto Show bills itself as North America's oldest and largest auto show. First held in 1901, this year will be the 104th time the Chicago Auto Show has been presented. Chicago does not host as many new-product introductions as the nearby Detroit show, but is a frequent launching ground for new trucks.WHEN TO GO
The 2012 Chicago Auto Show is open to the public Friday, February 10th through Sunday, February 19th, with a special charity preview on Thursday evening, February 9th.
Hours:
February 10th through February 18th: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (box office closes at 9:00 pm)
February 19th: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm (box office closes at 7:00 pm)
Admission:
Adults: $11
Senior citizens (62 or older) and children 7-12: $7
Children 6 or under: Free with a paid adult
Weekday group discounts are available for groups of 20 or more; more info here.
Buy tickets online -- no service fees.
Discount tickets:
- Half-price weekday tickets are available at participating BP gas stations (more info)
- $4 off weekday coupons available at select new car dealers, State Farm insurance agents, and on Pepsi cans (more info)
- Women's Day: Women admitted for $7 on Wednesday, February 15th
- Food donation: Bring 3 cans of food to donate on Wednesday-Friday February 15th-17th, to receive a $4 off coupon. Food donation booths are located near the box offices
First Look for Charity:
A black-tie charity preview is being held on Thursday, February 9th, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. More information
HOW TO GET THERE
By car:
The Chicago show takes place at McCormick Place, located at Lake Shore Drive at 23rd St in Chicago. Navigation systems should be programmed for 2301 South Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, Illinois, 60616.
On-site parking is available at the three McCormick Place lots. Lots A and C cost $19, Lot B costs $14, with prices reduced to $10 after 6:00pm. On weekends, parking is available at the Millennium Park Garage for $16 with free shuttle service to and from the show.
By public transportation:
CTA has dedicated bus lines providing Auto Show service from CTA's downtown rail lines, Metra's Ogilvie Transportation Center, Union Station and LaSalle St. Station. On weekends only, there will be shuttle service to the Halsted station on the Orange line.
CTA routes 3 and 21 stop at McCormick place, as does route 129 on weekday evening rush hours.
Public transportation info (scroll down)
WHAT TO SEE
See all the new vehicle introductions in my 2012 Chicago Auto Show photo gallery.
