Car fans, mark your calendars. The Detroit Auto Show 2027 runs from January 14 to January 24, 2027, at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. The first two days serve media, industry guests, and charity donors. After that, the doors open to the public for nine straight days. This guide covers dates, tickets, exhibitors, the schedule, attractions, and travel tips. Therefore, you can plan your trip with confidence and skip the last-minute stress.
Why This Event Matters
Detroit has hosted a major auto show for more than a century, and the Motor City still treats it as a highlight of the year. The show brings new vehicles, hands-on displays, and family fun under one roof. Moreover, it happens in winter, so visitors get a warm indoor escape from the cold. Whether you love trucks, electric cars, or race machines, you will find something to enjoy.
A Quick Look Back
Detroit has long been the heart of the American car industry. Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler all grew here, and their influence still shapes the city. Therefore, a car show in Detroit feels different from one in any other place. Engineers, designers, and fans often share the same halls. Additionally, many local families treat the event as a yearly tradition.
Key Dates at a Glance
The event runs eleven days, but each day serves a different audience. Review the table below before you buy tickets.
| Date | Day | What Happens |
| January 14, 2027 | Thursday | Media and Industry Day |
| January 15, 2027 | Friday | Charity Preview (black-tie gala) |
| January 16, 2027 | Saturday | Public opening day |
| January 19, 2027 | Tuesday | Racing Day with the Detroit Grand Prix |
| January 24, 2027 | Sunday | Final public day |
However, the public days matter most to most visitors. They start on Saturday, January 16, and finish on Sunday, January 24. Consequently, you can choose from two full weekends.
Venue and Location
Huntington Place, formerly called TCF Center, hosts the show. It sits in downtown Detroit near the riverfront and the Renaissance Center. The building offers wide halls, plenty of display space, and room for indoor driving tracks. In addition, hotels, restaurants, and transit stops sit within easy reach.
Tickets and Pricing
Current Ticket Prices
Organizers offer special pricing for early buyers. Adult tickets cost less now than they will in January. Therefore, buying before November 30, 2026, saves the most money. The table below lists the prices.
| Ticket Type | Through Nov. 30 | Later Pricing |
| Adults (ages 13 and up) | $20 | $23 through Jan. 15; $27 for Jan. 16 to 24 |
| Seniors (ages 65 and up) | $12 | $15 |
| Children (ages 3 to 12) | $10 | $10 |
| Ages 2 and under | Free | Free |
| Family Pass (2 adults, 3 children) | $50 | $60 |
| Industry ticket | $60 | $60 |
Additionally, the family pass offers strong value for larger groups. Prices can change, so confirm the final amount at checkout.
Where to Buy
Buy tickets on the official website, detroitautoshow.com. Stick with that site to avoid fake listings and inflated resale prices. Moreover, online tickets let you skip the box office line on busy days.
Charity Preview and Industry Access
The Charity Preview takes place on Friday, January 15. This black-tie gala has raised more than $125 million for children’s charities in Southeast Michigan. Tickets go on sale in early November. The organizers had not posted a price at the time of writing, so check the official site. Meanwhile, media outlets can apply for credentials, and applications opened on November 2.
Show Schedule
Public Days
The public show runs nine days, from January 16 to January 24. Organizers had not posted daily hours when this guide went live. Therefore, check the official site for opening and closing times before you leave home. Hours can differ from day to day.
Racing Day on January 19
Tuesday, January 19, brings Racing Day, presented by the Detroit Grand Prix. Fans can expect a busy list of activities:
- Photo spots and Winner’s Circle displays on the concourse and show floor
- Autograph sessions with drivers from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone
- An indoor track with ride-alongs in production vehicles, led by professional drivers
- Race cars and artifacts from NTT INDYCAR SERIES and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship
- Q&A talks and a panel discussion
- The reveal of the 2027 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix poster, presented by Lear
In addition, some fans can ride with drivers in Chevrolet Corvette E-Rays, which served as pace cars for the Indy 500 and the Detroit Grand Prix. Organizers will announce the driver lineup and ride times later.
Best Times to Visit
Weekdays usually bring smaller crowds, so they suit visitors who want more time at each display. Weekends feel livelier, but lines grow longer. The table below matches visitor types with the best days.
| Visitor Type | Suggested Day | Why |
| Families | Weekday or early Saturday | Shorter lines and calmer halls |
| Racing fans | Tuesday, January 19 | Racing Day events and driver meetings |
| Off-road fans | Early on any public day | Track lines are shortest in the morning |
| Car shoppers | Weekdays | More time to sit in cars and talk with staff |
| Industry guests | Thursday, January 14 | Dedicated industry access |
Exhibitors and Vehicles
Detroit’s home automakers anchor the floor. Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, lead the lineup. Organizers also point to more brands joining them. However, the full exhibitor list was not final at the time of writing. Check the official website for updates as January gets closer.
What to Expect on the Floor
Visitors can sit inside new vehicles, ask questions, and compare models side by side. Interactive displays explain new features and technology. Additionally, expect a wide mix of electric vehicles, trucks, and family SUVs.
Why Exhibitors Matter to You
Each brand builds a display to show its newest ideas. Some focus on rugged trucks, while others highlight efficient family cars. As a result, one visit lets you compare many choices without driving from dealer to dealer. Furthermore, staff members stand ready to answer questions, so you can learn about features in plain language. Bring your questions and take notes as you go.
Tips for Comparing Cars
- Make a short list of models before you arrive
- Sit in the back seat, not just the driver seat
- Take photos of window information for later review
- Ask staff about features and availability
Top Attractions
Off-Road Test Tracks
Ride prices come with your ticket, so you pay nothing extra. Three tracks stand out:
- The Ford Bronco Built Wild track, with Rock Crawl and Tilt Ridge obstacles
- The Camp Jeep off-road experience
- A Detroit Grand Prix themed track
Lines can grow long, so ride early in the day. Furthermore, wear flat shoes with good grip.
Interactive Exhibits
Hands-on displays turn the show into a day of play for all ages. Kids can explore vehicles up close, while adults can study new technology. As a result, the event works well for mixed groups.
Photo fans will love the setting too. Bright displays, shiny paint, and dramatic lighting make every corner worth a picture. Therefore, charge your phone before you go.
The Charity Preview Glamour
The Friday gala adds a touch of style to opening week. Guests dress in formal wear, preview new vehicles, and support children’s charities. If you enjoy a special night out, consider this option.
Getting There and Parking
Parking Options
Parking is available at Huntington Place and in other downtown garages and lots. Organizers suggest booking ahead with SpotHero, which shows the walking distance to the venue. This step saves time on busy days.
Public Transit
The Detroit People Mover runs free of charge and stops at Huntington Place. During the show, it opens at 8 a.m. on weekends. You have two smart options:
- Park in Bricktown or near the Renaissance Center, then ride the People Mover
- Park farther north on Woodward Avenue, take the QLine to Grand Circus, then connect to the People Mover
Check current service times before you travel.
Planning Your Day
A Sample Itinerary
A full visit can take four to six hours. Start with the off-road tracks while lines stay short. Next, walk the main floor and visit the brands you care about most. Then take a lunch break and rest your feet. Finally, return for a second look at your favorite vehicles, and use the afternoon for any special events.
Planning With Kids
Children love the sights and sounds of the show. However, big halls can feel tiring for small legs. Therefore, set a meeting spot with your group in case anyone gets separated. Bring snacks, a light jacket, and a small stroller if needed. Meanwhile, the family pass keeps costs low for bigger groups.
What to Bring
- Your tickets on a phone or on paper
- A small bag, since large items slow security checks
- A phone charger or power bank
- A light jacket for cool halls
- Cash or a card for food and parking
Looking Ahead to the Grand Prix
Racing Day gives fans a taste of what comes next. The Detroit Grand Prix returns to the downtown streets from June 4 to June 6, 2027. The weekend features the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and INDY NXT by Firestone. Consequently, racing fans can enjoy two events in one year.
Smart Visitor Tips
- Buy tickets early to lock in lower prices
- Arrive soon after opening on weekends
- Dress in layers, because January air is cold outside and halls feel warm
- Wear comfortable shoes for long walks
- Carry a power bank for photos and videos
- Plan a meal break to avoid hunger and fatigue
- Follow official channels for schedule updates
Make a Day of It
Downtown Detroit offers plenty to do before or after the show. Walk along the Detroit RiverWalk if the weather allows. Grab a meal in Greektown. Additionally, visit Eastern Market for local food and shops. Winter weather may limit outdoor plans, so keep indoor backups ready.
Conclusion
The Detroit Auto Show 2027 offers eleven days of cars, racing, and family fun at Huntington Place. Industry guests and charity donors get the first two days. The public gets January 16 to 24. Early tickets cost less until November 30, 2026, so buy soon. Moreover, off-road tracks, Racing Day on January 19, and hands-on exhibits give every visitor a reason to come. Finally, plan your parking, check hours on the official site, and enjoy the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2027 show in Detroit?
It runs from January 14 to January 24, 2027. The public days are January 16 to 24.
2. Where does it take place?
Huntington Place in downtown Detroit hosts it. The venue was formerly called TCF Center.
3. How much do adult tickets cost?
Adults pay $20 through November 30, $23 through January 15, and $27 from January 16 to 24.
4. Are there discounts for seniors and kids?
Yes. Seniors age 65 and up pay $12 through November 30, then $15. Children ages 3 to 12 pay $10.
5. Do young children need a ticket?
No. Children ages 2 and under enter free.
6. Is there a family ticket?
Yes. The Family Pass covers two adults and three children. It costs $50 through November 30, then $60.
7. What is the Charity Preview?
It is a black-tie gala on January 15. It has raised more than $125 million for children’s charities in Southeast Michigan.
8. What is Racing Day?
Racing Day happens on Tuesday, January 19. It features drivers, race cars, ride-alongs, and fan activities.
9. Do off-road rides cost extra?
No. The rides on the Bronco, Camp Jeep, and Grand Prix themed tracks come with your ticket.
10. How do I get to the venue without a car?
Use the free Detroit People Mover, which stops at Huntington Place. You can also take the QLine to Grand Circus and connect.
