The 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) opens to the public on Saturday, January 16 and runs through Sunday, January 24. The NAIAS is held at Cobo Center in Detroit. We have attended several times over the years, most recently in 2014. We will probably skip the auto show this year since my husband and I both have cars that are less than 2 years old.
NAIAS Logistics
The Auto Show is open from 9a-10p every day except the last day, Sunday, January 24 when it is open from 9a-7p. There is no admission the last hour of the show.
NAIAS Tickets
Tickets are $13/adult, $7/children ages 7-12, and $7/seniors ages 65+. Children 6 and younger are free with a parent/guardian. Adult tickets can be purchased on-line, however you will still have to pick up your tickets at the ticket counter when you arrive.
NAIAS Parking
Recommended parking garages include the Joe Louis Arena Garage (where I parked in 2014), the Cobo Roof Deck, and Millennium Garage. We have also parked at various lots within walking distance of the Cobo Center. With the cold temperatures, you will need to wear your winter coats. In past years they have offered a coat check for a nominal fee (if I recall, it benefits a charity).
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NAIAS Food
There are typically light snacks available on the show floor. Some options we have had in the past include fudge, nuts, and water. There is also a food court downstairs with more options available including full meals.
NAIAS Activities
Of course the main attraction at the Auto Show is looking at the new car models. Our last trip was a big help to us since my husband was in the market for a new car (we did purchase one that September). In addition to the vehicles, there are usually a few fun activities around the exhibit halls.
My daughter has had the chance to play racing games, build a car, have her picture taken, and more at NAIAS. She also enjoys checking out the cars and being able to climb in them – particularly getting to experience the front seats of cars.
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Until September 2014 my husband and I were both driving 2004 cars, so we enjoyed seeing the technological advances since our previous car purchase.
Our Experience at Past NAIAS
We have visited the Auto Show as a family 3 times, when my daughter was 2, 6, and 8. All of our visits were on the weekend.
Each time we have bought our tickets at the door. There have always been plenty of ticket booths or automated kiosks to purchase tickets with minimal wait times. The coat check has been a big help since many of our visits have been on very cold days.
You can read more details in my reviews from our attendance at the 2012 NAIAS and the 2014 NAIAS.
