Drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a new vehicle before buying one have a shot at Oakbrook Terrace this week, where the Chicago Auto Show’s test-drive spinoff event is letting ticket holders take vehicles for a spin at 3 Lincoln Center. The event, known as Chicago Auto Show: Behind the Wheel, includes gas-powered, hybrid and all-electric models from mainstream and luxury brands alike, with tickets running just $10 per driver.
A Scheduling Mix-Up Before the Rides Even Start
Exactly when the event runs depends on which source you check. The official event page, hosted at chicagoautoshow.com, lists the event as running Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4, 2026. A PRNewswire release announcing the event, however, states it will take place October 1 through October 4, 2026, at the ComEd Building. Adding to the confusion, the official event page also notes that the Thursday, October 1 driving session has been canceled due to weather — meaning attendees should check the venue’s own listing before heading out.
Despite the scheduling discrepancy, the core pitch of the event is straightforward: get behind the wheel of vehicles most shoppers would otherwise only see on a showroom floor. As WGN-TV highlighted in its Spotlight Chicago coverage, the event offers an immersive test-drive experience letting attendees drive the latest cars, trucks and SUVs, including drives of luxury and mainstream vehicle models. Jennifer Morand joined that station’s coverage with more details on what visitors can expect.
A Broader Mix of Vehicles Takes Center Stage
The 2026 lineup expands beyond electric vehicles. Organizers are expanding beyond electric vehicles to showcase all-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Attendees can test-drive models from participating manufacturers. Driving sessions are scheduled every day of the event, and attendees must register online in advance.
Tickets, Parking and Who Can Actually Drive
Getting behind the wheel costs $10 per driving participant, while non-driving guests may register to attend free of charge. Free parking is available for all attendees, and every driver ticket purchase comes with a $5 discount on admission to the 2027 Chicago Auto Show. Test drives are handled on a first-come, first-served basis within each ticket holder’s selected date and time frame.
Eligibility rules apply for anyone who wants to actually get in the driver’s seat. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, state-issued driver’s license. The event is produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and presented by ComEd, which is also hosting live induction-cooking demonstrations with Chef Michael McGreal on October 2 and 3 as part of its energy-efficiency programming at the show.
