St. Louis, Missouri, is a hub for automotive enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re into high-speed racing, classic car shows, or off-road adventures, St. Louis has something to offer every car lover. The city’s automotive scene is vibrant and diverse, from prestigious motorsports events to family-friendly activities.
Automotive Activities in St. Louis
In this guide, we’ll explore the top ten automotive activities in St. Louis, highlighting the best ways to indulge your passion for cars. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on driving experience or want to admire some beautiful vehicles, St. Louis is a fantastic destination for automotive enthusiasts.
1. World Wide Technology Raceway
World Wide Technology Raceway, located just across the river in Madison, Illinois, is the premier motorsports facility in the St. Louis region. The track hosts major racing events, including the NASCAR Cup Series, the NHRA Drag Racing Series, and the IndyCar Series.
In addition to its professional events, the track also offers “Friday Night Drags” and other amateur racing opportunities where local drivers can test their skills on the dragstrip. With a road course, dragstrip, and oval track, this raceway provides a thrilling experience for motorsports fans of all ages. Whether you’re attending a high-profile race or participating in a track day, the adrenaline rush at World Wide Technology Raceway is hard to beat. Visit World Wide Technology Raceway
2. St. Louis Auto Show
The St. Louis Auto Show is the largest car show in the region, showcasing hundreds of new vehicles from major automakers. Held annually at the America’s Center Convention Complex, this event features everything from the latest models and cutting-edge technology to classic cars and exotic vehicles.
Attendees can explore new car models, talk to industry professionals, and even participate in test drives. The show also includes a variety of family-friendly activities, such as live demonstrations and a Kids Zone. The St. Louis Auto Show is an excellent opportunity for car enthusiasts and potential buyers to get hands-on with the latest automotive innovations. Visit St. Louis Auto Show
3. Gateway Classic Cars
Gateway Classic Cars is one of the world’s largest classic and exotic car showrooms, located just outside St. Louis in O’Fallon, Illinois. The facility showcases a wide selection of classic cars, muscle cars, and exotic vehicles, all available for purchase.
Visitors can stroll through the expansive showroom and admire meticulously restored vehicles from various decades. Gateway Classic Cars also hosts monthly “Caffeine & Chrome” events, where car enthusiasts can gather, enjoy coffee, and show off their own vehicles. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates vintage and high-performance cars. Visit Gateway Classic Cars
4. St. Louis Car Museum
The St. Louis Car Museum offers a fascinating journey through automotive history with its extensive collection of classic and vintage cars. Located just outside Overland, Missouri, the museum displays rare and historically significant vehicles from different eras.
In addition to viewing the museum’s impressive collection, visitors can also explore cars available for purchase. The St. Louis Car Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of classic cars. It is a fantastic destination for enthusiasts who want to learn more about automotive history or shop for a vintage car. Visit St. Louis Car Museum
5. Gateway Kartplex
For a family-friendly automotive experience, head to Gateway Kartplex at World Wide Technology Raceway. This outdoor go-karting track offers high-speed thrills, with rental karts reaching speeds up to 60 mph. The track is designed to provide an authentic racing experience, with challenging turns and a professional-grade layout.
Gateway Kartplex hosts racing leagues, special events, and open track sessions, making it a great spot for beginners and seasoned kart racers. Whether looking for a fun afternoon or serious competition, the Kartplex delivers fast-paced excitement for all ages. Visit Gateway Kartplex
6. St. Louis Dirt Track Racing
St. Louis Dirt Track Racing offers motorsports enthusiasts a thrilling, high-adrenaline experience. Dirt track racing features fast-paced action on oval dirt tracks at various regional venues, including Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 in Pevely, Missouri, or Tri-City Speedway in Granite City, Illinois. These events showcase modified cars, sprint cars, and stock cars racing side by side, kicking up dirt and battling for the top spot.
Known for its intense, close-quarters racing, dirt track events attract fans of all ages, offering a grassroots motorsport experience. The season runs from spring through fall, with weekend races drawing local drivers and regional talents. With an electric atmosphere, roaring engines, and tight competition, St. Louis Dirt Track Racing provides an unforgettable evening of excitement for motorsports fans. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, the combination of speed, skill, and unpredictable racing makes these events a must-see. Visit St. Louis Dirt Track Racing
7. St. Louis Cars & Coffee
St. Louis Cars & Coffee is a social gathering where car enthusiasts meet to show off their vehicles and chat about everything automotive. Held at various locations across the St. Louis area, these casual meetups draw a diverse crowd of car owners, from classic car collectors to supercar aficionados.
The event is free to attend, and anyone is welcome to participate, whether you’re bringing a car or just there to admire the lineup. It’s a great way to connect with the local car community, see rare and exotic vehicles, and enjoy a relaxed morning with fellow enthusiasts. Visit St. Louis Cars & Coffee
8. Amp Up Action Park
Amp Up Action Park in St. Louis is an indoor entertainment center offering electric go-kart racing and other activities like laser tag and arcade games. The electric karts offer a smooth and fast driving experience, allowing racers to navigate the track precisely.
Amp Up is a great destination for birthday parties, corporate events, or a fun day out with friends. In addition to karting, the park also features axe throwing and virtual reality games, making it a fun and diverse spot for automotive and action sports enthusiasts. Visit Amp Up Action Park
9. RoadRally St. Louis
RoadRally St. Louis is a driving event page that gathers automotive road rallies across the Midwest. Teams can take part in organized road trips that explore the beautiful countryside around St. Louis, with stops at scenic landmarks and historic sites. The rally team must be composed of two people.
The rally often attracts a variety of vehicles, from sports cars to trucks or SUVs, and offers a social and adventurous way to enjoy driving with like-minded individuals. RoadRally St. Louis is perfect for those who love long drives and scenic road trips with a community of fellow car enthusiasts. Visit RoadRally St. Louis
10. The Great Race
The Great Race is an annual event that stops in cities across the U.S., including St. Louis. This classic car rally attracts vintage and antique vehicles nationwide as teams compete in a time-speed-distance rally. The event often stops in St. Louis, allowing local car enthusiasts to admire rare and beautifully restored cars as they make their way across the nation. The Great Race is a must-see for classic car fans and offers a glimpse into the history of automotive engineering and racing. Visit The Great Race
St. Louis Automotive Activities
St. Louis offers an impressive variety of automotive activities for enthusiasts of all ages and interests. Whether you’re drawn to high-speed racing, classic car shows, or off-road adventures, the city has many opportunities to explore the world of cars.
From the excitement of professional motorsports at the World Wide Technology Raceway to the laid-back charm of Cars & Coffee meetups, the St. Louis automotive scene is both diverse and inclusive. Whether you’re behind the wheel or simply admiring the craftsmanship of beautiful vehicles, these top ten automotive activities will surely provide an unforgettable experience for car lovers in St. Louis.
