Best Car Shows for Restomods

Restomods don’t follow rules—they rewrite them. For builders, collectors, and anyone who appreciates modern performance tucked inside vintage steel, restomods represent the best of both eras. But not every car show gives these customs the respect they deserve.

Whether you're wrench-deep in your own build or scouting for your next investment-grade restomod, these are the best car shows in the U.S. for restomod lovers to show, shine, and connect.

1. SEMA Show – Las Vegas, NV

This is the show where top-tier restomod builders come to flex. From twin-turbo Tri-Fives to widebody C10s, the SEMA Show sets the tone for the custom scene every year. Restomods aren’t just welcome, they’re the stars!
Note: Industry-only, but if you can get in, it’s worth every badge-swipe.

2. Goodguys Rod & Custom Events – Nationwide

Goodguys shows are a restomod haven. Their nationwide series highlights pre-’87 custom builds, with awards for everything from Best G-Body to Custom of the Year.
Our top picks for restomod standouts:

• Goodguys Columbus - The PPG Nationals (July)

• Lone Star Nationals - Texas Motor Speedway (October)

These events attract serious builders and collector-quality customs.

3. Barrett-Jackson – Scottsdale, AZ & Palm Beach, FL

While Barrett-Jackson is primarily an auction, it doubles as a rolling showcase of investment-grade restomods.
Expect: six-figure Camaros, fuel-injected Bel Airs, and LS-swapped trucks that look factory-fresh but run like modern muscle.

4. Lone Star Throwdown – Conroe, TX

Texas goes hard for custom trucks, but restomod cars and street rods show up strong at LST too.
Known for wild fabrication and frame-down builds, this event blurs the line between show and showdown.

5. Street Rod Nationals – Louisville, KY

Hosted by the NSRA, the Street Rod Nationals welcome thousands of builds, from period-correct classics to fully reimagined restomod street rods. If you’ve got something that breaks the mold while honoring it, this is your crowd.

6. The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering – Monterey, CA

High-end, high-design restomods, think Singer, Icon, or Ringbrothers, get their due at The Quail. This is where art and engineering intersect, and where collectors scout bespoke builds with modern drivetrains and jaw-dropping finish quality. Expect carbon fiber, billet everywhere, and some of the best one-off restomods in the world.

7. Cruisin’ Ocean City – Ocean City, MD

Over 3,000 rides line the boardwalk and surrounding streets. Restomods of every era mix with classics and muscle—there’s space for all styles. This show leans into fun, but the builds are serious.
Pro tip: Show up early if you're cruising. Spots go fast.

8. Shades of the Past – Pigeon Forge, TN

It’s one of the South’s most-loved hot rod gatherings, and restomod hot rods always get their due. If your ride blends old-school style with modern power, you’ll find appreciation (and competition) here.

Why Restomods Belong on Center Stage

A true restomod blends the best of both worlds: timeless bodylines, modern drivability, and power that punches way above its weight. Whether it’s an LS-powered Nova or a Pro-Touring Mustang with coilovers and Baer brakes, restomods are built to be driven, and admired.

At HotRod Collection, we’re proud to feature restomods that are collector-approved and hand-selected, not consigned. If you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade a high-end restomod, we’re ready when you are.

Got a Custom That Needs a New Garage?

We buy cool cars and collections—no consignment, no nonsense. Whether you’re unloading a single Pro-Touring Camaro or a full fleet of modernized muscle, let’s talk.

👉 Call or text 802-HOT-RODS (802-468-7637)
👉 Browse our restomod inventory at hotrodcollection.com