4 of Our Picks for Best California Auto Shows

There is something for everyone to enjoy in one of the best California auto shows.

California has served as a venue for some of the hottest automotive releases ever, from $300K supercars to the latest plug-in hybrids.

Here are Wide Open Road's top four picks for California car shows, ranked in order based on a set of criteria - prestige, number of vehicles, complementary niche shows, and exclusives.

4. Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show

Pomona is the West Coast's largest swap meet; 300,000 made it to its 68th annual event this year.

A three-day show, it features seven exhibits with more than 600 classics and vehicles of all types, including hot rods and vintage rides.

3. Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

Hosted at the world-renowned Pebble Beach golf course in central California, this upscale affair with its fedora-wearing audience specializes in luxury supercars. This year featured an insane amount of new concepts, including the BMW Concept Z4 and Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta.

Three different ticket pages are available, with two offering the choice of VIP and a Hospitality Luxury Package which provides early access to shows, lunch buffets, tours, and signed memorabilia.

The next Pebble Beach event takes place on Sunday, August 26, 2018.

2. Los Angeles Auto Show

The Los Angeles Auto Show holds the distinction as one of the best California auto shows, with more than 30 new car debuts every year. This year will feature 1000+ vehicles, VIP guided tours, and more. Last year, several supercars made its debut, including but not limited to the Aria concept, Alfa Romero Stelio, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, Mercedes-Maybach S650, and the Mercedes-AMG GLE43.

Look for its 60th-anniversary event this December 1-10, 2017 at the LA Convention Center in Los Angeles, California.

1. San Francisco Auto Show

The largest annual car show on the West Coast, a $10 ticket (free for children) gives you access to a kaleidoscope dream of supercar debuts and the latest electric concepts.

In 2016, more than 35 major automakers were on hand, with notables like Mercedes and Ford offering test drives. Other smaller events scattered throughout two weekends in honor of niche segments, such as hot rods, modified cars, and a tribute to Ferrari owners worldwide with the Ferrari Club of America.

Look for its 60th-anniversary event this November 18-26, 2017 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, CA.

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