The New York International Auto Show is the oldest auto show in North America. The first edition opened in November 1900 at the original Madison Square Garden, when the automobile was still a novelty, with dozens of exhibitors showing steam, electric and gasoline vehicles — and a test track for demonstrations. Today the show is held each spring at the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side, with hundreds of vehicles, new model debuts and the World Car Awards announcements.

At a glance
First show November 1900, Madison Square Garden
Today’s venue Javits Center, Manhattan
Typical timing Spring (often April)
Known for New-model debuts, concept cars, consumer test drives

The 1900 show

At the turn of the century, most Americans had never seen a car. The first show offered demonstrations of starting, braking and driving, and visitors could compare steam, electric and gasoline power — a debate that was far from settled. Read the history of electric cars and the first car in America.

Famous debuts

Over the decades, New York has hosted major unveilings. One of the most famous was the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, shown at a New York motor sports show in 1954, reflecting the importance of the American market. Read the 300 SL Gullwing.

Visiting tips

  • Buy tickets online and go on a weekday if possible.
  • Wear comfortable shoes — the show is vast.
  • Check indoor test-drive and ride-along opportunities.
  • Plan transportation: traffic around the Javits Center is heavy on opening days. See our Javits Center guide and conference season in NYC.

The show through the decades

The show has moved venues several times over its history and paused during major disruptions, including wartime and the COVID-19 pandemic. Each era reflected the industry: postwar chrome and tailfins, the muscle-car 1960s, the efficiency focus of the 1970s and today’s electric vehicles and technology.

Behind the scenes

Before public days, the show hosts press days, when manufacturers stage debuts for media from around the world — one reason New York remains important for launching new models in the U.S. market.