Determining the “best” cities in the USA to own and drive a vintage car can be subjective and depend on various factors such as climate, road conditions, availability of vintage car events, and enthusiast communities. We have discussed in the past some of the many opportunities for both day trips as well as some of the more scenic routes in the US. The best cities for classic cars also include the surrounding communities as many enthusiasts rather enjoy the rural roads near the big cities.
However, here are 25 cities known for their vintage car culture, enthusiast-friendly environment, and scenic driving routes:
1. Los Angeles, California
- With its year-round sunny weather and iconic car culture, Los Angeles is a haven for vintage car enthusiasts. The city boasts numerous car shows, cruise nights, and scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway and through the Hollywood Hills.
2. Detroit, Michigan
Known as the Motor City, Detroit has a rich automotive heritage and is home to many classic car enthusiasts. The city hosts the Woodward Dream Cruise, one of the largest vintage car events in the world and offers plenty of opportunities for cruising along historic Woodward Avenue.
3. Monterey, California
Monterey is famous for its classic car auctions, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, making it a must-visit destination for vintage car collectors and enthusiasts. The scenic coastal roads of Monterey County provide ideal driving routes for vintage car owners.
4. Miami, Florida
Miami’s warm climate and vibrant culture make it a great city for vintage car owners to enjoy year-round driving. The city’s Art Deco architecture and scenic coastal roads offer plenty of opportunities for cruising in style.
5. Austin, Texas
Austin is known for its eclectic music scene and vibrant arts community, making it a popular destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city hosts several classic cars shows and events throughout the year, including the Lonestar Round Up.
6. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville’s Southern charm and scenic countryside make it an ideal destination for vintage car owners. The city hosts the Nashville Boogie Vintage Weekender, a four-day event featuring classic cars, live music, and retro fashion.
7. Phoenix, Arizona
With its sunny weather and open roads, Phoenix is perfect for vintage car owners looking to enjoy year-round driving. The city’s desert landscapes provide picturesque backdrops for scenic drives.
8. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s laid-back vibe and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city hosts the Portland Swap Meet, one of the largest auto swap meets in the country, and offers plenty of scenic drives through the Pacific Northwest.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its glitz and glamour, making it a fun destination for vintage car owners to cruise the famous Las Vegas Strip. The city also hosts the SEMA Show, the premier automotive specialty products trade event.
10. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s historic architecture and charming streets make it an ideal city for vintage car enthusiasts to explore. The city’s annual Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival showcases classic cars against the backdrop of Southern elegance.
11. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s hilly terrain and iconic landmarks provide a unique driving experience for vintage car owners. The city’s classic car clubs and enthusiast communities offer plenty of opportunities for networking and camaraderie.
12. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes make it a picturesque destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city’s annual Santa Fe Concorso features rare and exotic classic cars from around the world.
13. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville’s scenic mountain roads and vibrant arts scene make it a popular destination for vintage car owners. The city hosts the Southeastern Classic Car Show, an annual event featuring classic cars and live music.
14. San Diego, California
San Diego’s mild climate and coastal scenery provide an ideal backdrop for vintage car cruising. The city’s annual La Jolla Concours d’Elegance showcases classic cars against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
15. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans’ vibrant culture and historic streets make it an exciting destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city’s annual Classic Car Auction features a wide selection of classic cars and memorabilia.
16. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s Pacific Northwest scenery and thriving arts community make it a great city for vintage car owners to explore. The city’s annual LeMay Car Show & Auction showcases classic cars from all eras.
17. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s charming architecture and Southern hospitality make it an ideal destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city’s annual Concours d’Elegance features classic cars displayed in historic settings.
18. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s iconic skyline and historic neighborhoods provide a scenic backdrop for vintage car cruising. The city hosts the Chicago Auto Show, one of the largest auto shows in North America.
19. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s rich history and cultural attractions make it a captivating destination for vintage car owners. The city’s annual Vintage in the Village car show features classic cars displayed in a charming village setting.
20. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder’s scenic mountain roads and outdoor lifestyle make it an ideal city for vintage car enthusiasts. The city’s annual Boulder Concours d’Elegance showcases classic cars against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
21. Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s theme parks and sunny weather make it a fun destination for vintage car owners to enjoy year-round driving. The city hosts the Winter Park Concours d’Elegance, featuring classic cars displayed in a beautiful park setting.
22. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City’s barbecue, jazz music, and historic neighborhoods make it a vibrant destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city’s annual Art of the Car Concours features classic cars displayed on the grounds of the Kansas City Art Institute.
23. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson’s desert landscapes and historic attractions make it an intriguing destination for vintage car owners. The city’s annual Classic Car Show & Auction showcases classic cars from all eras.
24. New York City, New York
New York City’s iconic landmarks and bustling streets provide a unique backdrop for vintage car cruising. The city’s annual New York International Auto Show features classic cars alongside the latest automotive innovations.
25. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City’s mountain scenery and outdoor recreation make it an appealing destination for vintage car enthusiasts. The city hosts the Utah Concours d’Elegance, showcasing classic cars against the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains.
Finally
These cities offer a mix of scenic driving routes, vibrant vintage car communities, and cultural attractions that make them ideal destinations for vintage car owners to enjoy their passion for classic automobiles. If plan on travelling to one of these best cities do not forget to prepare your vintage car for the road trip.
