Reasonable prices, interactive displays and, of course, all those cool cars and trucks make the North American International Auto Show a draw for parents and kids of all ages.
DETROIT, MI- Reasonable prices, interactive displays and, of course, all those cool cars and trucks make the North American International Auto Show a draw for parents and kids of all ages.
[See our Guide to the Detroit auto show for the basics on parking, tickets, food and more. Want to make a weekend out of the auto show? Here are 8 attractions for car lovers in Metro Detroit]
"A lot of people come to shop cars - that's what it originally was for," said NAIAS spokesman Marc Harlow. "But I think a lot of people come because it's and entertaining environment. Even if you're not in the market for a car, it's a great day out. You come down to Detroit, see a city shaping up here."
We walked the auto show floor during the media days this week with an eye for what would appeal to families and kids. Here's what we found:
Simulators
Corvette, Ford and other displays have video games for people to drive virtual cars at top speeds. The 2014 Corvette display - the worldwide hit of the show - includes a leader board for people to host their top times on the Gran Turismo simulator, appealing to adults as much as kids.
Michelin Man
Pose for a photo with the Michelin man and then ride along like you're a tire.
Chevy
We'll give Chevrolet special attention for its obvious efforts to reach families. Already a big draw for the Corvette, the Detroit automaker will pull in families with a fun Matchbox car jumping game, flip book photo booth built inside of a 1963 Greenbrier van and a free button display.
Daily parade
Everyone loves a parade, and this year's NAIAS will feature a parade of cars, local stars and some special surprises from The Parade Company, organizers of America's Thanksgiving Parade. During the Public Show -- from Jan. 19-27 -- the NAIAS will feature a parade on the main show floor at 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily (3:30 p.m. parade only on Jan. 27). Each parade will feature a host of ultra-luxury automobiles, local personalities from television, radio and sports, and even some clowns and special props from The Parade Company. Visit NAIAS.com as the dates approach for the lineup of local celebrities participating.
Family Day
The 7 Action News Family Day kicks off on Jan. 25 with a chance to meet and get autographs from news personalities and Detroit Grand Prix drivers. Kids can enjoy music from Radio Disney, magicians, acrobats and caricature artists. You can also register to win an iPod.
Lesson Plans
Education Day, the day when schools bring students to the auto show, has been part of NAIAS since 2005. Parents of kids who aren't attending with their school can view lesson plans used to prepare students to attend the show. Lessons include the importance of the auto industry in Metro Detroit and what to expect at the show. Download the lesson plans here.
Cars
Of course, there's always the cars. From race cars and police vehicles to crazy colors and cool designs, auto-show-goers of all ages will enjoy the show's shiny, sleek and fun vehicles. The Bentley and Maserati displays may seem intimidating, but you don't have to be an adult to appreciate the gorgeous vehicles. The Mini Cooper booth has cars driving up the wall and Volkswagon creates a presence with its use of a DJ, Buddy Holly remix, fog and dancers. In short, the spectacle of the show will keep kids entertained.
Family appeal
Harlow said advertising for the 2013 built on the nostalgia people feel about attending the show. He recalled walking the floor with his Dad when he was 8 years old, and this year he's planning on going to the show with his kids.
"When I think of kids at the auto show, I think of watching the dads and sons walking around hand-in-hand, the kids getting really excited about sitting in the car and climbing in the car while the Dad is shopping," Harlow said. "And not just Dads and sons. Moms and daughters, dads and dads and daughters … it's a real parent-kid thing."