
Life’s funny, right? Sometime between taking my SATs and getting my college diploma, I met a guy who loved four-wheeled, engine-powered vehicles more than anyone I’d ever known, and now we’re married and living just outside Detroit (aka, the Motor City). Needless to say, automobiles, auto shows, and all that they encompass are everywhere and have indeed become a huge part of my life.
[Disclosure: This post is sponsored by A Girls Guide To Cars in conjunction with the Steel Market Development Institute and the North American International Auto Show. Personal stories and opinions are my own].

1. You Get To Shop For Your Dream Car

2. You’ll Learn How Cars Are Getting Better Every Year

- It’s cost-effective. While aluminum is two to three times more expensive than steel, automakers who stick with steel can maintain existing infrastructures and in turn, lower overall costs (which translates to savings for you, the consumer).
- It’s sustainable. By making cars from steel, automakers encourage environmentally sound practices by using one of the most recyclable materials available. Steel also has the lowest production phase greenhouse gas emissions compared to alternative materials, making it an ideally eco-friendly choice for manufacturers.
- It increases fuel economy. New manufacturing processes allow automakers to utilize thinner pieces of advanced high-strength steel for lighter vehicles that meet better fuel economy goals without sacrificing strength.
3. Freebies Galore
I’m not ashamed to admit it: I love me some free stuff. Bags, buttons, flashlights, even Hot Wheels cars—I’ve seen it all at the Detroit Auto Show, and every year, the goodies get switched up a bit. While you can find some of this swag by visiting various manufacturers’ booths, keep a lookout for special pop-up presentations, where you can score more unique items by answering trivia questions or interacting with brand spokespeople.It’s also common to find coupons and vouchers for various businesses around the Cobo Center during NAIAS (last year, LYFT shared free ride credits with auto show attendees). Keep your eyes open as you roam around and you could end up with some unexpected deals!
4. Interactive Exhibits

From computer games to virtual reality driving simulators, the Detroit auto show always serves up fun, hands-on activities that are, on their own, worth a visit. One of my favorites from years past? A Kia Soul dance floor where you could get down to “Party Rock Anthem” with the famous cartoon hamsters! I’ve also wanted to try out Ford’s cool spaceship-looking ride for a few years now, so we’ll see if that’s still in the mix during my next visit. There’s always something new to see!
5. Cool Photo Opps

6. Spend A Day Exploring Detroit

If you visit the NAIAS without exploring Detroit, does it even count? With all the new restaurants, stores, and amazing museums throughout downtown and midtown, it would be a shame not to build a whole day around your trip to the Cobo Center. Grab breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner at one of the Motor City’s awesome restaurants, go thrifting for some one-of-a-kind finds, or spend a couple hours admiring famous paintings and sculptures at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Want to save money on parking? Leave your car in one spot and ride the new QLINE up and down Woodward—there’s lots to see along the way.
[CLOSED]: Win Tickets To The 2018 North American International Auto Show!
(Giveaway from A Girls Guide To Cars, SMDI, and NAIAS)
Want to win free tickets to NAIAS 2018? Steel Market Development Institute, the North American International Auto Show, and A Girls Guide To Cars are giving away TEN pairs of tickets, with one grand prize winner receiving an additional $100 gift card! [Giveaway Closed.]
Will you be attending the Detroit Auto Show this year? Why or why not? Leave your questions and favorite auto show memories in the comments below!
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