How To Experience Everything That The Chicago Auto Show Has To Offer

The 2016 Chicago Auto Show, which runs Feb. 13-20 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at McCormick Place, will feature a litany of world premier cars, interactive displays and test tracks.

The convention area hosts 2.7 million square feet of space, which makes it the largest auto show in the country by size. There's plenty to see and do, and many attendees wonder how they can experience everything the 2016 show was to offer between the six outdoor test tracks, three indoor experiences, rock climbing walls, video game simulators and several eateries.

Mark Bilek, senior director of communications and technology for the Chicago Automotive Trade Association, recommends downloading the official Chicago Auto Show 2016 app onto smartphones. The app allows users to interact with the show on a level never before imagined. This year, attendees can view schedules, maps and get up-to-date information to intelligently plan out their stay and plan of attack for the monstrosity of an automotive extravaganza.

Accompanying the app will be complimentary wifi. Thanks to sponsor support, the show maintains that there are many reasons to download the app and no reasons to ignore it.

"We choose our sponsors based on the value added to attendees," Bilek said, emphasizing that the wifi is free of charge to guests.

Another great way to experience everything that the show has to offer is to make sure that everyone is ready to walk, walk and walk some more. The auto show is in a large space and mobility will be key to making sure guests can putt around from exhibit to exhibit to see everything. For those needing extra assistance, wheelchairs will be available for rental at the ticket counter. For those suffering from low blood sugar during the event, guests can refuel at food stands offering the best of Chicago restaurants. If food stands offering gourmet grub aren't the choice for you, there is a full-service restaurant in the show for those needing some added recharge time.

Timing will also be key in making sure that everything can be seen at the show. Weekdays are the least crowded and will allow shorter wait times to experience everything. Discount weekday tickets can be found at local Shell gas stations and fifth-third banks. Those who cannot get to the show on weekdays should strategize on the best time for them to attend the show. The early afternoon sees the most people while early morning and very late evenings allow the crowds to thin out a bit. Before showing up, it is important to figure out if you want to be an early bird or late night owl to experience everything with the least amount of crowds limiting your movements.

Unlike most big events, parking should not be that much of a challenge. Guests will see signs advertising on-site parking, which butts straight up to the front doors. The lack of a walk from the car to the doors will help buy some extra time inside. Those coming in from the Dan Ryan should find an alternate route when they get close to their destination. Typically, the off-ramp for the Lake Shore Drive exit is a nightmare at best during the show. Guests should consider getting off the highway one or two stops before or after their planned exit. The time spent driving stoplight to stoplight will still be much better than sitting in the gridlock on the side of the Ryan.

Robert Mathius is a Chicago suburb native who currently lives in Tinley Park. He has a passion for the automotive industry in addition to journalism and works to blend his two passions in his writing. Additional automotive reporting by Robert can be found on Examiner.com.