The best places to see vintage cars in 2025 include classic car shows, museums, auctions, and local meetups, which are often enriched by the growing enthusiasm for automotive history.
Here are some top-tier options:
Iconic Classic Car Shows and Events
These annual gatherings attract vintage car enthusiasts worldwide and are excellent places to view rare and iconic vehicles.
- Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (California, USA)
- One of the world’s most prestigious classic car events. Expect to see beautifully restored and rare vintage cars displayed on the scenic Pebble Beach Golf Links.
- Goodwood Revival (West Sussex, UK)
- A celebration of motorsport history with vintage cars, historic races, and participants dressed in period attire.
- Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance (Florida, USA)
- A top-notch event showcasing rare and historically significant vehicles, including cars with famous owners or unique stories.
- Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este (Lake Como, Italy)
- A glamorous event that blends luxury, history, and art, featuring exquisite classic and concept cars in a breathtaking lakeside setting.
- Hershey AACA Fall Meet (Pennsylvania, USA)
- Hosted by the Antique Automobile Club of America, this event combines a massive swap meet with one of the largest classic cars shows in the U.S.
Vintage Car Museums
Museums offer an all-year opportunity to see some of the finest examples of automotive history.
- The Petersen Automotive Museum (Los Angeles, USA)
- A state-of-the-art museum with an extensive collection of vintage, rare, and custom cars displayed in stunning exhibitions.
- The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (Dearborn, USA)
- Showcases historical vehicles, including some of the earliest American classics, with a focus on innovation and automotive milestones.
- Mercedes-Benz Museum (Stuttgart, Germany)
- A stunning museum chronicling the history of Mercedes-Benz and its significant contributions to the automotive industry.
- Museo Ferrari (Maranello, Italy)
- Highlights Ferrari’s illustrious history with iconic vintage models and Formula 1 cars.
- National Motor Museum (Beaulieu, UK)
- Features an impressive collection of over 250 vehicles, ranging from early motoring pioneers to glamorous sports cars.
Classic Car Auctions
Even if you are not buying, auctions are a fantastic way to see rare vintage cars up close.
- RM Sotheby’s Auctions
- Held globally, their auctions feature some of the world’s most desirable classic cars, often displayed in glamorous locations.
- Barrett-Jackson Auction (Arizona, USA)
- Known as the “world’s greatest collector car auction,” with a massive selection of vintage cars, muscle cars, and exotics.
- Bonhams Auctions (Global)
- Offers exclusive vintage cars, often tied to significant historical events or owners.
Local and Regional Car Meetups
Smaller meetups and regional shows are excellent for discovering vintage cars in a more relaxed setting.
- Cars and Coffee Events
- Casual morning gatherings in cities worldwide where car enthusiasts show off their vehicles, often including vintage and classic cars.
- Vintage Car Club Meetings
- Local clubs often host regular meetups, providing a chance to connect with enthusiasts and see unique cars in person.
- Local Auto Shows
- Check local calendars for regional vintage car exhibitions or parades. These events often attract unique cars with local historical significance.
International Events for Automotive Tourism
If you are looking to travel while indulging in vintage car enthusiasm, consider these international festivals:
- Retro Classics (Stuttgart, Germany)
- One of Europe’s largest classic car exhibitions, showcasing a mix of vintage cars, parts, and accessories.
- Paris Retromobile (Paris, France)
- A luxurious event that combines vintage cars, art, and history. It’s a must-visit for anyone passionate about rare European classics.
- Tokyo Classic Car Show (Tokyo, Japan)
- Highlights Japan’s vintage car culture, with beautifully restored domestic and international classics.
Online Platforms and Virtual Events
Many prestigious events now feature virtual tours or live-streamed auctions, allowing enthusiasts to view vintage cars from the comfort of home. Websites like Hagerty and Bring a Trailer often share high-quality images and videos of rare cars.
Tips for 2025 To See Vintage Cars
- Plan Ahead: Tickets for major events like Pebble Beach or Goodwood Revival often sell out months in advance.
- Check Local Listings: Enthusiast clubs and car communities frequently host small-scale events worth exploring.
- Combine Interests: Many car museums and events are near historical or tourist attractions, making them part of a broader travel experience.
By choosing a mix of major events, museums, and local meetups, you can fully immerse yourself in the vintage car culture in 2025.
