DETROIT (WWJ) -- The Motor City is shifting into overdrives as the doors open to the general public for 2026 Detroit Auto Show, starting this Saturday at Detroit's Huntington Place.
Here's what to know:
📅 Key Dates and Times
The Public Show runs for nine days, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
Public Show Dates: Saturday, Jan. 17 – Sunday, Jan. 25
Daily Hours: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Buy Tickets Early: Tickets for the Public Show are available now at detroitautoshow.com. Buying online can save you time in line at the door.
🚘Interactive Experiences
This year’s show is less about looking at cars behind velvet ropes and more about getting behind the wheel (or in the passenger seat).
Indoor Track Ride-Alongs: Experience the torque of EVs and hybrids on the Powering Michigan Experience track, or tackle rugged terrain at Camp Jeep and the Ford Bronco Built Wild mountain climbs.
The Camp Jeep Indoor Track Experience seems to be the most popular at this year's show.
The Michigan Overland Adventure: A new-for-2026 exhibit featuring rugged, custom-built off-road rigs and expedition gear from brands like Chevy, GMC, Toyota, and INEOS.
Racing Day (Jan. 20): Meet pro drivers, see championship race cars, and take a ride on a track inspired by the Detroit Grand Prix.
Modded Detroit (Hall E): Check out 150 of the best local modified cars, where owners will be on-site to talk about their custom builds and performance tweaks.
👨👩👧👦 Family & Kids' Activities
The 2026 show has significantly expanded its "STEM" and youth-focused programming in the Huntington Place Atrium:
Visit Detroit Interactive Experience: Includes racing simulators and hands-on activities from the Michigan Science Center.
Power Wheels Track: A dedicated driving area for the youngest visitors, presented by Jeep and Ram.
🎶 Entertainment & Special Events
Detroit Auto Show 5K (Jan. 17): Kick off the first Saturday with a 9 a.m. run along the Detroit Riverfront! he course starts and finishes near Huntington Place, with proceeds to help update exhibits at the Outdoor Adventure Center.
Drive the Beat: Live music is included with your ticket. Catch GMAC Cash (Jan. 17), The Crampton Brothers (Jan. 18), and Skonie and the Klouds (Jan. 24).
Driven by Service Day (Jan. 19): Celebrate MLK Day with student performances. You can also bring donations of new coats, hats, and gloves to help Detroit students in need.
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