NAIAS Basics

If you want to see cars, lots of cars, then you should head down to Detroit's Cobo Center. What's happening there of course is the largest event of its kind in North America, and possibly, the world. The North American International Auto Show is the stage where major automakers showcase their advanced concept vehicles and production vehicles as well.

Carl Galeana, senior co-chairman of the NAIAS 2008 had this to say according to The Auto Channel: "This world-class event has so much to offer everyone from car enthusiasts who visit the show annually, to kids wanting to see their first concept vehicle. The cutting-edge technologies mixed with interactive attractions and entertaining displays offer an event perfect for the entire family." At the event, I'm sure you can find vehicles and auto parts much more valuable than an Integra axle.

To help you and me and everyone else keen to go to the show, the organizers had these options offered:

• Plan in advance. Did you know that you can purchase a parking space in advance? Click and Park is an online parking system that allows show attendees the convenience of purchasing a parking space in select lots near the NAIAS up to 24 hours prior to attending.
• Don't want to drive downtown? Shuttle services to Cobo Center from The Henry Ford in Dearborn and the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak are available on Jan. 19-21, 26 and 27. Parking is $5 at these locations and families can then take a shuttle for $5 per person round-trip directly to Cobo Center, children 12 and under travel free.
• E-Tickets. To avoid long ticket lines, try purchasing e-tickets online at http://www.naias.com. For families with small children, tickets for children 7-12 must be purchased on-site at Cobo Center. Ticket prices are $12 (US and CAN) for adults; $6 (US and CAN) for senior citizens (65 and older) and children aged 7-12; children six and under are free with their parent.
• Taking in the hundreds of vehicles and the glitz and glamour on the show floor can be an all day event. Here are some items to bring along to make your trip more enjoyable. Wear comfortable shoes. Carry essentials in a light-weight backpack -- keeping your personal items close (keys, cell phone, camera), but out of the way. Just in case you can't tear yourself away from the show, bring along any necessary medication or other items you could need throughout the day. Also, remember that hydration is your friend -- bottles of water or other beverages at snack locations are available for purchase and will keep you cool while walking the show floor. Don't forget to bring along your camera to snap those candid photos at the show and submit them to www.naias.com by Sunday, Jan. 27 for entry into the second annual NAIAS Photo Contest sponsored by WWJ Newsradio 950.