Hi All,thinking about going to the SEMA show this fall,is it worth the trip,also going to take in the AAPex show too,looks like a lot of fun on the different websites,anyone else been there,what to do and what not to do?,any must do's or see?. Thanks Harvey
The SEMA show isn't a 'open' show, it's only for press/vendors/manufacturers/etc... So if you're not one of those, you need an invite from somebody who is.
Been to SEMA twice in 5 years. I'd go every year if I could afford to. Its sensory overload for car guys.
Its one of the events I look forward to every year. Its definitely worth it especially if you've never been. Guys are correct, closed to public. There has to be a vender in the business that you know that can get you in. They check throughly when you are at the show, id, business card etc etc. so I wouldn't go the CL way.
if you are in the automotive business, or know someone that is and will take you, you need to go. Go to the SEMA web site for details. lots of hotel rooms available.
Been there twice and worth every penny. You just got to know somebody in the industry that's a SEMA member, otherwise you'll be on the outside looking in.
Well worth it, but it's a hike. Used to be the Mother Lode of nekkid lady posters too, but that went the way of most good things. Joe H
I am in the "automotive business" so tickets shouldn't be to hard to get?,just wanted to know if its as good as they say it is,so far the comments point to being just that. Thanks Harvey
Yep, totally worthwhile. I had a great time, got cheepo lodgings on freemont street ( great nightly freak show there too! ) Lots of other stuff to do there after SEMA is over. i got a rental car and drove around the desert looking for old cars, found loads. A++ must do! Cheers!
Yes well worth it, I went last year and am going again this year. There is also lots of other training to look out for such as CARS classes, and the AVI Conference.
This ^ Many years ago before I had my shop I made a "paper" business with the sole intention of going to the show. All car guys gotta go once (at least). Not a lot of hard core racer stuff, a little bit of traditional hot rod related, and a ton of 2014 diesel trucks with 40" tires, twin turbo kits on 2014 stingrays, etc, etc. I always tell people it's like an unlimited budget car show. It's got the answer to, "If I won the powerball jackpot, how could I build/modify a _________ (insert name of late model vehicle here)." Oh - another important note. Wear comfortable shoes. It is the biggest indoor anything I have ever seen. I'm pretty hardcore at those things and am the last guy standing in my group usually. I don't think you could see it all in 2 full days. It's like 3-4 buildings the size of multiple NFL stadiums (each building) full of exhibitors, vehicles, presentations, etc.
I go just about every year for work purposes. Spend most of my time at AAPEX because that is where my bread is buttered, but SEMA is much more entertaining. Worth going to for sure.