The 6 Best Classic Car Events Across the Country

Classic car is a passion. They take a lot of dedication, work, and sometimes problem-solving. Loving an older vehicle means you put a lot of effort into ensuring its beauty and history are not compromised. 

Things like routine maintenance and proper storage are essential to maintaining an antique vehicle. However, sometimes you may have to ask about options like classic car insurance with no garage if you don’t have the storage space insurance companies are looking for to cover you.

No matter how you store or care for your classic car, they are a lifestyle for many people across the U.S. As with any passion, it is common to want to share and enjoy those moments with other like-minded people. For this reason, many classic car lovers enjoy events catered to their hobbies.

Classic car events sprinkle the U.S. in practically every state. With so many to choose from, how do you narrow down which are worth the visit? Here are the best classic car events across the country. 

#1 – Iola Car Show 

The small town of Iola, Wisconsin, only houses about 1,300 residents throughout the year. However, this tiny community welcomes over 120,000 classic car enthusiasts for their annual car show every year for three days in the summer.

The event is no small matter, boasting almost 2,500 cars on display for visitors to enjoy. There are swap spaces, areas to purchase vehicles, and a plethora of vendors to enjoy. There is even a flea market for anyone looking to take a break from the car scene.

The site offers camping for those traveling long distances or even those close who wish to stay on location. There are 1,600 spots available, providing ample space for those looking to park their RV and enjoy the event.

#2 – Charlotte Auto Fair

Tucked away in the beautiful state of North Carolina, this car event is hosted twice a year — once in spring and again in the fall. The auto fair welcomes almost 150,000 people to its grounds during each event, making it extremely popular.

This fair will host anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 vendors depending on the season, selling items like cars, tools, supplies, vintage signs, and memorabilia. There’s a little something for every car enthusiast at this event.

While this event does not have camping options on-site, there are hotels in the surrounding area perfect for those looking to stay multiple nights.

#3 – Back to the 50s

Classic car lovers will surely enjoy this weekend event held each year in St. Paul, Minnesota. This event is filled with activities, a wide variety of classic cars, and even some celebrity guests. 

The car show typically welcomes around 150,000 people each year and upwards of 10,000 antique vehicles to enjoy. The event holds parades, live music, and even an arts and crafts fair. There is something for everyone at this time capsule event.

There is on-site camping for those who wish to bring along their RV and enjoy the weekend. The event even keeps a website with updates and available campsites so you can always stay in the loop.

#4 – Cruisin’ the Coast

Pinning down the exact town this car event takes place in is tricky since it spans a 30-mile stretch of Mississippi beach-front highway. There are multiple locations set up in cities along the way, including Bay St. Louis, Biloxi, D’Iberville, Gulfport, Pass Christian, Ocean Springs, and Pascagoula. 

Each stop on this unique event offers vendors, merchandise, food, and even live music. Rather than walking around only one location, this classic car meet offers many different events rolled into one. Add in the bonus of beautiful views of the Gulf, and you’ve got yourself a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.

With a multitude of locations, there aren’t any on-site camping options at this event. However, there are many hotels to choose from in the surrounding areas so you can stay and enjoy all the festivities.

#5 – AACA Fall Meet

In a town known for its chocolate, you may not expect to find a massive calling for classic cars. However, Hershey, Pennsylvania is more than just delicious sweets.

Every year, on the grounds and surrounding area of Hershey Park, an incredible car event takes place. Almost 200,000 people come out to enjoy the cars, vendors, and corral spots each October. The show spans over 29 miles and brings in some of the most unique cars and parts at the event.

This event offers sites for camping if you are hoping to stay on the grounds. They don’t take reservations, however. So if you want a spot, be sure to get there early and secure yours. 

If you don’t prefer camping or simply can’t snag a spot, never fear. With the event’s location, you will find plenty of other lodging options in the surrounding area. Hotels and even off-ground camping sites are available for those looking to stay and enjoy all the meet offers.

#6 – Telluride Autumn Classic

Lovers of fall foliage and classic cars will find their dreams come to life at this event. This beautiful mountain town in Colorado offers visitors a truly unique experience at their car show.

During the event, antique automobiles line the town’s main street, just waiting to be seen. The backdrop for these cars couldn’t be better, as the fall colors light up the San Juan mountains in the distance. 

The Autumn Classic also offers a photo contest, encouraging visitors to snap an incredible photo of their car surrounded by the stunning autumn colors. The winner of the competition will receive a cash prize at the end of the event.

There are plenty of lodging options available to guests of the event, as this mountain town is also well known for its skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can choose from rental homes or hotels, ensuring you can find exactly what you’re looking for during your stay.

Classic Car Events Worth the Trip

Owning an antique vehicle can be a fun and fulfilling hobby. A lot of work, passion, and care goes into ensuring these cars run smoothly, from keeping up with proper maintenance to getting the best antique car insurance. When you have such a strong passion, it’s nice to find like-minded people to share and enjoy it with.

Classic car shows are the perfect place to show off your personal vehicle and enjoy the beauty of others. You can gain ideas, knowledge, and maybe some new friends along the way. If you’re looking for your next car show, look no further than any of these events.

Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. She loves classic cars and enjoys educating others about information such as events and insurance rates.