The Detroit Auto Show is introducing an all-new immersive activation in 2026 with the debut of the Visit Detroit Interactive Experience, a dynamic, family-friendly showcase located in the Atrium at Huntington Place that is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and career inspiration for the next generation of automotive and mobility leaders. The new Visit Detroit Interactive Experience runs January 17 – 25.
Serving as a high-energy and family-fun gateway into the show, the new atrium activation reflects Detroit’s role as a global hub for mobility, technology, and innovation—while intentionally creating hands-on entry points for young people to see themselves in the future of the auto industry.
The experience brings together interactive partners including the Michigan Science Center, Code 313, Pit Lane Sim Racing, and a kid-focused Power Wheels track presented by Jeep and Ram.
Guests of all ages can explore real-world science and engineering concepts with the Michigan Science Center, engage with coding, problem-solving, and augmented and virtual reality–based technician training through Code 313, and experience the performance and precision behind motorsports with high-end sim racing from Pit Lane Sim Racing. Together, these elements highlight the wide range of modern automotive career pathways—from hands-on technical roles to advanced technology and innovation.
For young visitors, the Jeep and Ram Power Wheels track offers a thrilling, age-appropriate first connection to vehicles and mobility—creating an early spark and memories at the Detroit Auto Show for a new generation.
“We are excited to once again partner with the Detroit Auto Show to welcome tens of thousands of attendees and automotive enthusiasts to our destination,” said Claude Molinari, President & CEO, Visit Detroit. “The Visit Detroit Interactive Experience will directly engage young people in attendance and give them a glimpse into what makes Detroit the automotive capital of the world.”
“This activation is about planting seeds,” said Todd Szott, 2026 Detroit Auto Show Chair. “We want kids and students to walk in, get their hands on technology, feel the excitement of innovation, and start to imagine themselves as engineers, designers, coders, technicians, or entrepreneurs. If we can inspire even a fraction of them to explore a future in the auto industry, that’s a win for Detroit and for the industry as a whole.”
The new atrium experience reflects the Detroit Auto Show’s broader evolution, blending automotive, technology, education, and culture into immersive environments. It reinforces the show’s long-term commitment to workforce development, youth engagement, and building a strong talent pipeline that will sustain the Motor City’s leadership for generations to come.
The Michigan Science Center display is made possible by sponsors DTE, Comcast Business and Ford Motor Company.
The Visit Detroit Interactive Experience will be open to all Detroit Auto Show attendees and serve as a central gathering point throughout the public show, offering energy, discovery, and inspiration from the moment guests arrive. Detroit Auto Show tickets are on sale now – and a special Family Pass is available at detroitautoshow.com.
For more information on the Detroit Auto Show, visit detroitautoshow.com.
2026 Detroit Auto Show Highlights
- The Gallery Fundraiser: Tuesday, Jan. 13
- Media & Industry Days: Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 14–15
- Mobility Global Forum: Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 14–15
- Future Leaders Program (University Student Access & Career Pathways): Thursday, Jan. 15
- Charity Preview: Friday, Jan. 16
- Public Show: Saturday–Sunday, Jan. 17–25
- Racing Day presented by the Detroit Grand Prix: Tuesday, Jan. 20
- Future Leaders Program (High School Student Access & Career Pathways): Wednesday–Thursday, Jan. 21–22
Press Contact:
Heather George – Detroit Auto Show
hgeorge@loviogeorge.com
