Rev Up Your Engines for America's Top Classic Car Events
Rev up your engines and get ready to explore some of the best classic car events around the country.
Rev up your engines and get ready to explore some of the best classic car events around the country. From the sun-soaked coasts of California to the historic tracks of Daytona, we've compiled a list of some of the most significant classic car events that you won't want to miss. So buckle up and prepare for a road trip through the heart of America's classic car scene!
Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - California
The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, held in California, is one of the most prestigious classic car shows in the world. Established in 1950, this annual car show takes place on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, attracting automotive enthusiasts from around the globe. At this car show you’ll find an impressive collection of vintage cars, exotics, and sports cars, with each vehicle judged on its elegance, historical accuracy, and technical merit.
Where to Stay
An easy 11-mile drive from Pebble Beach, Carmel by the River RV Park is the perfect home base for car enthusiasts to enjoy all that this event has to offer. This campground offers spacious RV sites and a variety of onsite amenities including a general store, showers, a game room, and more.
SEMA Show - Las Vegas, NV
The SEMA Show, held in Las Vegas, NV, is a premier automotive specialty products trade event that draws industry professionals and gearheads alike. This show is famous for its extensive display of muscle cars, hot rods, and rat rods and since 1963, it has become the place to be to discover cutting-edge automotive technology, custom modifications, and performance enhancements. With a variety of exhibits, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities, the SEMA Show is a must-see event for anyone passionate about cars.
Where to Stay
Just 15 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas RV Resort is an adults-only RV resort that offers the perfect location for SEMA Show participants. This campground features RV sites and a handful of unique amenities including a spa, a recreation center, and a fitness center.
Daytona Turkey Run - Florida
The Daytona Turkey Run, held annually in Florida over Thanksgiving weekend, is one of the largest and most popular classic car events in the country. Taking place at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, this event features a massive display of classic and custom cars.
Some of the fun things that make this event unique are the Daytona Turkey Run, a large swap meet where attendees can find rare parts and automotive memorabilia, a car corral where you’ll find a wide variety of vehicles for sale, and impressive car club displays showcasing beautifully restored classics and unique custom builds.
Where to Stay
Just across the Halifax River from the speedway, you’ll find Coral Sands Inn and RV Park, a high-end RV park with oceanfront access and luxury amenities like a heated pool, a dog park, and their signature oceanfront gazebos. There are a variety of ways to stay at this campground including RV sites, cottages, and even hotel rooms.
Hot August Nights - Nevada
Every August, Reno and Sparks, Nevada, turn into a hotspot for fans of classic cars and rock 'n' roll as car buffs and music fans from across the nation gather here for a week filled with nostalgia and fun.
Here, you'll find an impressive display of vintage cars, enjoy cruise nights where people show off their rides, and catch live performances from some of your favorite bands. It's a great mix of cars, tunes, and community that makes Hot August Nights a must-visit event.
Where to Stay
About half an hour away from Reno, set up camp at Village Camp Truckee, a beautiful RV resort that positions you perfectly between the event and the shores of Lake Tahoe. At this campground, you’ll have the option between RV sites and cabins and you’ll have the luxury of an onsite sports court, rec center, general store, and a nearby golf course for some fun in the sun between car show events.
Woodward Dream Cruise - Michigan
The Woodward Dream Cruise, held annually in Michigan, is the world's largest one-day automotive event. Established in 1995, this event is a nod to the history of car culture along Woodward Avenue, where cruising first gained popularity in the 1950s and 60s. The Dream Cruise attracts over a million visitors and tens of thousands of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles every year.
During this all-day event, you’ll also be able to enjoy live music performances, cruise-in spots where car owners can showcase their vehicles, and main street events that embody the spirit of classic American car culture.
Where to Stay
Just around the corner from metropolitan Detroit, Camp Sabroske offers a nice lakeside retreat in Oak Harbor, Ohio, for Woodward Dream Cruise participants looking to escape the hustle and bustle. At this campground, you can choose between RV sites, dispersed tent camping, or a cabin rental for your stay. You can also spend your downtime enjoying the lake, which is perfect for paddle boating, swimming, and fishing, or head over to the pool for a relaxing day in the sun.
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association Events
The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association hosts some of the most popular and well-attended car events in the country. Founded in 1983, Goodguys events are known for their big gatherings of street rods, muscle cars, and sports cars. These events take place across the country and throughout the year, bringing together car enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Goodguys events are famous for their laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, featuring car shows, swap meets, autocross competitions, and vendor exhibits. With a focus on classic American cars and custom builds, Goodguys events offer something for everyone, from casual fans to hardcore automotive aficionados.
Corvette Funfest - Illinois
If corvettes are your car of choice, this one’s for you! The annual Corvette Funfest is a gathering in Effingham, Illinois, that attracts thousands of Corvette owners and fans who come together to celebrate their passion for this iconic American sports car. The event features a variety of activities, including car shows, seminars, product demonstrations, and guided road tours.
And while you’re enjoying yourself at the event, know that your support is going to a good cause. The Corvette Funfest is a charity car show so you’ll often have the chance to participate in fundraising activities and auctions with proceeds going to local and national charities.
Where to Stay
Located right there in town, Camp Lakewood Campground is a great place to rest your head at night. This lakeside RV resort offers RV and tent sites as well as a variety of cabins to keep you cozy on your visit to Effingham. If you find yourself with some free time between car show events, the lake at this campground is perfect for a kayaking excursion or a day of fishing from the shore. Camp Lakewood also offers an outdoor pool, a game room, and a playground for campers to enjoy.
Rancho Santa Fe Cars and Coffee - California
Rancho Santa Fe Cars and Coffee is a relaxed, open house-style event held in California, where car enthusiasts gather to show off their prized cars. This informal gathering takes place in the town of Rancho Santa Fe every Saturday morning (weather permitting) and attracts a variety of cars, including exotics, classics, and more.
Where to Stay
Just down the road from Rancho Santa Fe, you’ll find Escondido RV Resort, an urban RV resort with easy access to I-15 and a variety of fun amenities including a dog park, an outdoor pool, and a nearby golf course. Choose from a variety of beautifully landscaped big rig-friendly RV sites for your stay.
Planning Your Visit
Many websites and car enthusiast forums provide detailed listings of upcoming events. Once you’ve decided on the car show you want to attend, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip.
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Before heading to a classic car event, check for entry fees and parking information in advance to avoid any surprises. Many events, especially larger ones, have specific parking areas for participants and spectators.
Find Your Perfect Spot
Now it’s time to decide where and how you’ll stay if you’re traveling to an event. Spot2Nite makes it easy to book RV and tent sites as well as lodging like cabins and motel rooms across the USA and Canada with our interactive map and robust amenities filters. Start planning your trip today!
