Detroit Auto Show 2025: Reviving Downtown Businesses and Winter Tourism

The Detroit Auto Show’s return to its traditional January timeframe has sparked a wave of optimism among downtown businesses. After years of schedule shifts and a pandemic hiatus, the iconic event—now scheduled from January 10 to January 20—is anticipated to bring a much-needed economic boost to local establishments during the winter months.

Detroit Auto Show, Facebook

A Welcome Comeback for Local Businesses

The auto show’s January return marks a revival of a cherished tradition, one that has historically attracted large crowds to downtown Detroit. Business owners, like Grace Keros of American Coney Island, see the move as a restorative step for the city’s event-driven economy. Keros highlights the importance of such events, noting, “Downtown depends on conventions and major gatherings to draw in foot traffic, especially during the quieter winter months.” This sentiment echoes a broader belief that the show’s timing will help reinvigorate local businesses.

With the addition of the Detroit Lions’ playoff game at Ford Field coinciding with the show’s final weekend, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses are preparing for a surge in visitors. Lisa Walters of Mootz Pizzeria and Bar has adjusted staffing levels to accommodate the expected influx, emphasizing the restaurant’s readiness to cater to both locals and visitors exploring the city.

Reviving Downtown’s Economic Pulse

Detroit’s downtown core, long characterized by its reliance on office workers and event-driven traffic, has seen shifts in its economic landscape. Eric Larson, CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership, stated the transformative role of winter events, stating, “Winter has become an increasingly popular season for downtown activities, and the auto show enhances this trend by drawing significant crowds.” From Cadillac Square’s winter markets to the Campus Martius ice rink, the city has positioned itself as a year-round destination for both residents and visitors.

Ancora, a private wealth management firm, estimates the economic impact of this year’s auto show could rival the pre-pandemic highs of $430 million seen in 2019. With hundreds of thousands of attendees expected, the show is poised to energize businesses across sectors, creating opportunities for increased revenue and visibility.

Businesses Gear Up for Success

Restaurants and bars near Huntington Place, the venue hosting the auto show, are particularly optimistic. Parlay Detroit, a newly opened establishment on Washington Boulevard, is preparing for an uptick in lunchtime traffic and group reservations. Co-owner Joique Bell highlights efforts to “beef up” lunch and happy hour staffing to accommodate the anticipated crowds.

Similarly, Mootz Pizzeria and Bar has expanded its capacity to host larger parties, while maintaining flexibility to adjust staffing as needed. Walters notes that events like the auto show encourage day trips to the city, often leading to extended visits that benefit surrounding businesses.

Detroit Auto Show, Facebook

A Broader Winter Renaissance

The return of the auto show complements a series of high-profile winter events in Detroit, including the NFL Divisional Round playoff game and ongoing activities at Campus Martius. The combined draw of these events is expected to sustain downtown’s vibrancy throughout the season, providing a much-needed boost to a city still recovering from pandemic disruptions.

Beyond immediate economic gains, the auto show underscores Detroit’s evolving identity as a cultural and business hub. From cutting-edge vehicle reveals to the bustling restaurants and bars that make the city a destination, the event symbolizes a dynamic convergence of tradition and modernity.

Looking Ahead

As the Detroit Auto Show reclaims its January spotlight, it signals not just a revival of a beloved tradition, but also a pivotal moment for downtown businesses. With an array of attractions drawing visitors to the heart of the city, Detroit is poised to showcase its resilience and adaptability, ensuring that both residents and tourists experience the best it has to offer during the winter season.