Barrett-Jackson 2026 Scottsdale: Insider Survival Guide

Planning to attend Barrett-Jackson 2026 but overwhelmed by the 9-day schedule, confusing ticket tiers, and WestWorld’s massive 1-million-square-foot layout?

Most first-timers show up without a game plan—and spend half their day lost in parking lots, fighting crowds at the wrong times, or missing the real action entirely.

Here’s the deal:

This insider guide cuts through the noise. You’ll get exactly what seasoned attendees know: the best days to go based on your goals, parking hacks that skip the shuttle wait, and the Staging Lanes secret that separates casual tourists from true car enthusiasts.

In this Barrett-Jackson 2026 survival guide, you’ll discover:

• Ticket prices from $23 GA to $599+ VIP (and whether skyboxes are actually worth it)
• The Staging Lanes—where engines roar and the real car people hang out
• Free parking strategy + the exact rideshare pickup zone location
• What to wear (hint: comfortable shoes beat style on 100+ acres)
• Best food options inside WestWorld and nearby
• Pro tips from repeat attendees who’ve learned the hard way

Let’s dive in:

What is Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale? Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale is the world’s largest collector car auction, held annually at WestWorld of Scottsdale every January. The 2026 event runs January 17-25 featuring 1,800+ vehicles, daily automobilia auctions, manufacturer thrill rides, celebrity appearances, and the Rock The Block concert—attracting over 100,000 automotive enthusiasts from around the globe.

Barrett-Jackson 2026: Dates, Location & Quick Facts

The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2026 Auction kicks off with the Rock The Block concert on Friday, January 16, followed by nine full days of auction action from Saturday, January 17 through Sunday, January 25, 2026.

But here’s what most guides skip:

Not all days are created equal. Ticket prices fluctuate dramatically—from $23 on Monday to $100+ on Saturday night. Crowds range from “comfortable browsing” to “sardine can.”

Key 2026 Event Milestones:

• Friday, Jan 16: Rock The Block Concert (Cole Swindell + Chase Rice) — doors 6pm, show 7pm
• Saturday, Jan 17: Family Day + STEMfest + Auction Preview — kids 12 & under FREE
• Sunday, Jan 18: Auction Preview Day — lowest crowds, great for photography
• Monday-Wednesday: Live auctions begin — driver-quality cars, best value days
• Thursday-Friday: Prime Time builds — mid-to-high-tier vehicles cross the block
• Saturday, Jan 25: Super Saturday — million-dollar sales, maximum energy, packed crowds
• Sunday, Jan 26: Final auction day — last-chance deals, Barrett-Jackson Cup awards

Ticket Types & Prices: Is VIP Worth the Splurge?

Barrett-Jackson’s ticketing structure rewards early buyers and strategic day selection.

The difference between walking in Monday vs. Saturday? Up to $77 per person.

Here’s exactly what each tier gets you:

General Admission Breakdown ($23-$100+)

General Admission tickets provide access to everything except the auction block bidding floor, reserved bidder seating, and private skyboxes.

That includes:

• All 1,800+ vehicles on display
• Staging Lanes (where cars warm up before crossing the block)
• Automobilia auction viewing
• 200+ vendor Exhibitor Marketplace
• 70+ food court vendors
• Manufacturer Thrill Rides (Ford, Chevy, Dodge)
• Arena bleacher seating to watch live auctions

*Discounts available for Seniors (55+), Military, Students, and First Responders with valid ID

All-Week Pass: Best Value for Enthusiasts

Planning multiple days? The All-Week Pass is the move.

At approximately $107-$181 (early bird pricing), you get 9-day access for roughly the cost of 2-3 individual Prime Time tickets.

Best for:

• Serious collectors scouting vehicles across multiple days
• Photographers who need varied lighting and crowd conditions
• Local enthusiasts who want to drop in before/after work
• Anyone wanting flexibility without daily ticket decisions

VIP Packages: Craig Jackson Sky Box & Luxury Lounges

Now here’s where it gets interesting:

VIP experiences range from $599 to $5,000+ depending on the package. The flagship? The Craig Jackson Sky Box.

Is VIP worth it?

Honestly? For first-timers, no.

General Admission gives you access to 95% of the experience—including the Staging Lanes (our favorite spot). VIP makes sense for corporate hospitality, repeat attendees who’ve “done” GA, or anyone who values premium food/drinks over exploring the full venue.

The Staging Lanes Hospitality package at $599 offers the best VIP value if you want an upgrade without going full skybox.

Discounts: Seniors, Military, Students & First Responders

Barrett-Jackson offers meaningful discounts for:

• Seniors (55+): ~$5-15 off per ticket
• Active Military & Veterans: ~$5-15 off with valid ID
• Students (13+): ~$5-10 off with student ID
• First Responders: ~$5-15 off with department ID

Discounts apply at checkout online or at the AXS box office with valid identification.

🎟️ Get Barrett-Jackson 2026 Tickets →

The Staging Lanes Secret: Where Car People Really Go

Here’s what nobody tells you:

The auction block gets all the TV coverage. But seasoned Barrett-Jackson veterans? They spend most of their time in the Staging Lanes.

This is where vehicles line up—engines running, hoods popped—in the final minutes before crossing the block. No velvet ropes. No glass barriers. Just you, the cars, and their owners making last-minute preparations.

Why the Staging Lanes beat the auction floor:

• Hear the engines — A 426 Hemi sounds different than a 454 LS6. In the Staging Lanes, you’ll hear both rumbling feet away
• Talk to owners — Consignors are nervous, excited, and surprisingly chatty. Ask about restoration stories, original documentation, the hidden secrets under the hood
• See the details — Spot the correct date codes, matching numbers, or subtle flaws that determine value before bidders notice
• Feel the energy — This is pure automotive theater: last-minute detailing, strategic positioning, the tension of imminent sale
• Fewer crowds — While tourists pack the bleachers, you’ll have breathing room in the lanes

General Admission includes full Staging Lanes access. VIP hospitality packages add a dedicated viewing area with seating and refreshments—but honestly, walking the lanes yourself is the more immersive experience.

If you’re a true car enthusiast, budget at least 2-3 hours specifically for Staging Lanes time. It’s the heart of Barrett-Jackson that casual visitors completely miss.

Daily Schedule Decoded: Best Days Based on Your Goals

Nine days. 1,847 vehicles. Over 100,000 attendees.

Your experience depends entirely on which day you choose.

Here’s the breakdown by visitor type:

Bargain Hunters (Mon-Wed): Driver-Quality Cars, Smaller Crowds

Best for: Actual buyers, car flippers, anyone wanting affordable entry tickets + breathing room.

Monday through Wednesday brings the lowest ticket prices ($19-$25) and the calmest crowds. But don’t mistake “calm” for “boring.”

These are the days when driver-quality classics cross the block:

• Project cars needing restoration
• Solid daily drivers from the ’60s-’80s
• Affordable muscle (yes, it still exists under $50k)
• Trucks, SUVs, and overlooked gems

If you’re actually buying, this is prime hunting time. Competition is lighter, paddles move slower, and deals slip through that wouldn’t survive Saturday scrutiny.

Spectators & Dreamers (Fri-Sat): Million-Dollar Sales & Celebrities

Best for: First-time visitors wanting the “full Barrett-Jackson experience,” car enthusiasts chasing bucket-list sightings.

This is important:

If you’ve watched Barrett-Jackson on TV and imagined being there when a 1967 Shelby GT500 sells for $2.1 million—Friday and Saturday are your days.

Prime Time brings:

• Headliner vehicles — The most valuable, rarest consignments are strategically scheduled for maximum exposure
• Celebrity appearances — Collectors, TV personalities, automotive icons walk the floor
• Maximum energy — The auction block atmosphere peaks with standing-room-only crowds, bidding wars, and emotional moments
• Charity auctions — First-production vehicles and celebrity-owned cars raising millions for charity

The trade-off?

Tickets run $50-$100+. Parking fills early. Walking the display areas requires patience. Lines form everywhere.

Worth it? For most first-timers, absolutely. Just arrive early (gates at 8am) and have realistic expectations about crowd density.

Families with Kids (Sat Jan 17): Free Entry, STEMfest & Thrill Rides

Best for: Parents introducing kids to car culture without breaking the budget.

Family Day (Saturday, January 17) is specifically designed for younger enthusiasts:

• Kids 12 & under enter FREE (must be accompanied by paid adult)
• STEMfest activities — Hands-on automotive science exhibits, interactive displays, educational programming
• Manufacturer Thrill Rides — Professional drivers from Ford, Chevy, and Dodge take passengers on performance laps (subject to height/age requirements)
• Preview atmosphere — Lower pressure than auction days, more time to explore without fighting crowds

Adult tickets on Family Day run approximately $24—making it the most affordable way for a family of four to experience Barrett-Jackson (total cost: ~$48 for two adults, kids free).

Parking at WestWorld: Beat the Traffic Chaos

Now for the logistics:

WestWorld’s 387-acre complex sits at the intersection of Pima Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd (SR-101 access). On peak days, 20,000+ vehicles funnel into the same general area.

Good news: Barrett-Jackson has dialed in their parking operation over 50+ years.

Better news: Parking is FREE.

Free Public Parking & Shuttle System

Barrett-Jackson provides complimentary public parking in designated lots surrounding WestWorld, with free continuous shuttle service to the main entrance gates.

What to expect:

• Parking staff direct you to available lots based on arrival time
• Shuttles run every 5-10 minutes throughout event hours
• Shuttle ride: 3-7 minutes depending on lot distance
• Handicap/ADA parking available closer to gates (arrive early)

Valet Parking: Premium Convenience

But here’s the insider move:

If time matters more than money, valet parking is available directly at the main entrance for a fee (typically $25-$40 depending on day).

Valet makes sense if:

• You’re arriving after 10am on Friday/Saturday
• You have mobility concerns
• You’re attending a specific auction time and can’t risk shuttle delays
• You’re driving something you’d rather not leave in distant lots overnight

Note: Valet accepts cash only (one of the few non-cashless services at the event).

Rideshare Strategy: Uber/Lyft Pickup Zone

Prefer to skip driving entirely? Uber and Lyft operate designated pickup/drop-off zones near the main entrance.

Pro tips for rideshare:

• Drop-off: Use the official rideshare zone on the east side of the venue—drivers know the location
• Pickup: Walk to the designated zone before requesting your ride (surge pricing lower away from immediate gate area)
• Timing: Request your ride 10-15 minutes before you’re ready to leave on peak days—demand spikes at closing
• Cost: Expect $25-$45 from Old Town Scottsdale, $40-$65 from Phoenix Sky Harbor

Staying at a hotel in Old Town Scottsdale? Rideshare is often cheaper than parking + fuel, especially for couples.

What to Wear to Barrett-Jackson (Comfort Beats Style)

This is important:

Barrett-Jackson covers 100+ acres. You will walk 15,000-20,000 steps. In January, Scottsdale temperatures swing from 60°F+ afternoons to 40°F evenings.

Dress for function, not fashion.

What seasoned attendees wear:

• Shoes: Broken-in sneakers or comfortable walking shoes. No sandals. No heels. No new shoes you haven’t tested. Your feet will thank you by hour 6.
• Layers: T-shirt or polo base + hoodie or light jacket. Indoor areas are climate-controlled; outdoor staging areas and evening hours get cold.
• Pants: Jeans or comfortable pants with pockets. You’ll be crouching to inspect undercarriages, sitting on bleachers, and generally moving constantly.
• Hat: Baseball cap or wide-brim for outdoor areas—January Arizona sun is still strong midday.
• Sunglasses: Essential for outdoor displays and chrome reflections.

What to avoid:

• Heavy coats (you’ll carry them all day in indoor areas)
• Large purses or backpacks (see Clear Bag Policy below)
• Expensive watches or jewelry you’d worry about in crowds
• White shoes (oil drips happen near staging lanes)

Clear Bag Policy & Security: What You Can Bring

Barrett-Jackson enforces a clear bag policy similar to NFL stadiums and major concert venues.

Knowing the rules before you arrive saves the frustration of walking prohibited items back to your car.

The best part?

You’re allowed one factory-sealed water bottle under 17oz per person. January in Arizona is deceptively dehydrating—take advantage of this allowance and refill at water stations inside.

Security checkpoint tips:

• Arrive with your clear bag already organized—faster screening
• Have your ticket/phone ready before reaching the scanners
• Metal detectors are standard; remove keys, phones, coins for faster passage
• Peak entry times (9-11am on Fri-Sat) mean longer security lines—arrive earlier

Best Food at Barrett-Jackson: On-Site vs Nearby Restaurants

Want to know the real secrets?

You’ll spend 6-10 hours at Barrett-Jackson. Fueling up strategically makes or breaks your experience.

Here’s how to eat smart:

Food Court & Vendors Inside WestWorld

Barrett-Jackson’s Exhibitor Marketplace hosts 70+ food vendors ranging from quick bites to sit-down options.

What you’ll find:

• Classic American: Burgers, hot dogs, BBQ, chicken tenders
• Southwest favorites: Tacos, burritos, Sonoran hot dogs
• Quick snacks: Pretzels, popcorn, churros, ice cream
• Healthier options: Salads, wraps, fresh fruit (limited but available)
• Beverages: Full bars throughout venue, beer gardens, coffee stands

Timing hack: Food court crowds peak 11:30am-1:30pm and 5:30-7pm. Eat early (11am) or late (2pm) lunch to avoid lines that can stretch 15-20 minutes deep on Prime Time days.

VIP Dining Experience

VIP packages ($599+) include access to hosted bars and gourmet catering in climate-controlled lounges.

The food quality noticeably upgrades: carved meats, chef-prepared stations, premium desserts, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol packages vary by VIP tier.

If you’re spending 8+ hours and value not hunting for food, the VIP dining alone can justify the upgrade cost when you factor $50-$75 in GA food/drink spending.

Nearby Restaurants Worth the Drive

Need a break from event food? Several quality restaurants sit within 10-15 minutes of WestWorld:

• Breakfast/Brunch: The Original Breakfast House (7 min), First Watch (8 min)
• Casual Lunch: In-N-Out Burger (5 min), Culver’s (6 min), Chick-fil-A (5 min)
• Dinner worthy: Maestro’s Ocean Club (12 min), North Italia (10 min), The Capital Grille (15 min)

For a proper post-auction celebration, head to Scottsdale’s legendary steakhouses—Mastro’s, Dominick’s, or Steak 44 are all 15-20 minutes from WestWorld and perfect for toasting that winning bid.

Automobilia Auction: The Hidden Treasure Hunt

Most visitors focus exclusively on vehicles. Smart collectors know the Automobilia Auction is where accessible treasures hide.

Here’s why it matters:

While million-dollar muscle cars grab headlines, the Automobilia block offers entry points for every budget—from $50 vintage oil cans to $50,000+ porcelain dealership signs.

What crosses the Automobilia block:

• Vintage neon signs: Original dealership, gas station, and automotive brand signs ($500-$75,000+)
• Gas pumps: Restored visible, clock-face, and computer-face pumps ($1,500-$15,000)
• Petroliana: Oil cans, porcelain signs, globes, license plate collections ($50-$25,000)
• Memorabilia: Factory literature, promotional items, racing trophies, celebrity-owned items
• Garage art: Vintage tool chests, display cases, automotive furniture

Even if you’re not buying, walking the Automobilia display is a nostalgia trip through automotive history. Original 1950s Corvette dealer signs, rare Porsche factory posters, and one-of-a-kind racing memorabilia fill the space.

Budget at least 45-60 minutes to explore properly.

Rock The Block Concert: Cole Swindell Kicks Off 2026

Barrett-Jackson 2026 launches with the Rock The Block Concert on Friday, January 16—the night before auction gates officially open.

2026 Lineup:

• Headliner: Cole Swindell
• Special Guest: Chase Rice
• Venue: WestWorld outdoor concert grounds
• Doors: 6:00 PM | Show: 7:00 PM

Concert tickets do NOT include auction admission. Combo packages available through barrett-jackson.com.

The concert creates a festival atmosphere kicking off Barrett-Jackson week. For country music fans already planning to attend the auction, it’s a natural addition—especially if you’re arriving Thursday evening and want Friday entertainment before Saturday’s main event.

After the show, check out Old Town’s nightlife scene—just 20 minutes south with dozens of bars and lounges open late.

Pro Tips from Repeat Attendees

I’ve compiled advice from collectors and enthusiasts who’ve attended Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 10+ times. These are the lessons they learned the hard way:

🔧 Before You Go:

• Download the Barrett-Jackson app — Browse the docket, track favorites, get real-time auction results, and navigate the venue map
• Research vehicles in advance — The online docket goes live weeks before. Note lot numbers of cars you want to see in person
• Charge everything — Phone battery dies fast with constant photos. Bring a portable charger
• Book accommodations early — January is peak Scottsdale season. Hotels near WestWorld sell out months ahead

🚗 At the Event:

• Start at Staging Lanes — While crowds rush to the auction floor, you’ll have space to actually see cars
• Walk the entire display first — Get oriented before committing to specific areas. The venue is massive
• Talk to consignors — Most sellers love discussing their cars. You’ll learn details no auction description includes
• Watch the preview screens — Monitors throughout show what’s coming up next. Plan your position accordingly
• Take breaks — Sensory overload is real. Step outside, grab coffee, reset. You’ll absorb more

📸 Photography Tips:

• Best light: Early morning (8-10am) before crowds and midday sun create harsh shadows
• Get low: Crouch for dramatic angles—floor-level shots of wheels and bodylines pop
• Details matter: Badges, gauges, engine bays tell the story. Capture more than just exterior shots
• Respect barriers: Don’t touch vehicles or lean on them for photos. Security watches closely

Quick Comparison: Barrett-Jackson 2026 at a Glance

🎟️ Get Barrett-Jackson 2026 Tickets → 🚗 Browse Vehicle Docket →

Frequently Asked Questions: Barrett-Jackson 2026 Scottsdale

What are the Barrett-Jackson 2026 Scottsdale dates?

Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2026 runs Saturday, January 17 through Sunday, January 26, 2026 (9 full auction days). The Rock The Block concert kicks off the festivities on Friday, January 16. Gates open daily at 8:00 AM and auctions run until evening, with Prime Time hours extending latest on Thursday through Saturday.

How much are Barrett-Jackson tickets in 2026?

General Admission tickets range from $19-$100+ depending on the day. Preview/Family Day: $22-$24. Monday-Wednesday: $19-$25. Thursday-Friday: $40-$75. Super Saturday: $75-$100+. VIP packages start at $599 and include premium seating, hosted food/beverage, and Staging Lanes hospitality access. Discounts available for seniors (55+), military, students, and first responders.

Is parking free at Barrett-Jackson WestWorld?

Yes, parking is completely free. Barrett-Jackson provides complimentary public parking in designated lots surrounding WestWorld with free continuous shuttle service to the main entrance. Shuttles run every 5-10 minutes. Valet parking is available for a fee ($25-$40) directly at the gate. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) has designated pickup/drop-off zones near the entrance.

What can I bring to Barrett-Jackson?

Barrett-Jackson enforces a clear bag policy. Allowed: clear plastic bags up to 12″x6″x12″, small clutch purses up to 6.5″x4.5″, and one factory-sealed water bottle under 17oz per person. Prohibited: backpacks, large purses, coolers, outside food/beverages (except water), weapons, and professional cameras with detachable lenses over 6″ without media credentials.

Is Barrett-Jackson good for families with kids?

Yes, especially on Family Day (Saturday, January 17). Kids 12 and under enter FREE when accompanied by a paid adult. Family Day features STEMfest with hands-on automotive science activities, manufacturer Thrill Rides (Ford, Chevy, Dodge professional driver experiences), and a preview-day atmosphere with lower crowds than auction days. Children 5 and under are free every day of the event.

What should I wear to Barrett-Jackson?

Prioritize comfort over style. Wear broken-in walking shoes (you’ll walk 15,000-20,000 steps across 100+ acres), layers for temperature swings (65°F afternoons to 42°F evenings), and comfortable pants with pockets. Bring a hat and sunglasses for outdoor areas. Avoid heavy coats (indoor areas are climate-controlled), sandals, heels, and white shoes (oil drips near staging lanes).

How do I become a bidder at Barrett-Jackson?

Bidder registration requires completing an application through barrett-jackson.com, providing financial verification (bank letter or proof of funds), and paying a registration fee (starting around $100). Approved bidders receive credentials allowing access to the auction block and paddle for live bidding. First-time bidders should contact Barrett-Jackson’s bidder services team at least 2 weeks before attending to ensure approval processing time.

Your Barrett-Jackson 2026 Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast finally making the pilgrimage, a family introducing kids to automotive culture, or a curious first-timer wondering what all the fuss is about—Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale delivers an experience unlike anything else in the collector car world.

Nine days. 1,847 vehicles. The Staging Lanes rumble. Million-dollar hammers drop.

And now you know exactly how to navigate it like a pro.

Quick recap of what matters most:

• Tickets: Buy online in advance—$19-$100+ depending on day
• Best value days: Monday-Wednesday for smaller crowds and lower prices
• Don’t miss: The Staging Lanes (where car people really hang out)
• Parking: FREE with free shuttles—arrive before 9am on peak days
• Families: Saturday Jan 17 = kids FREE + STEMfest + Thrill Rides
• Wear: Comfortable walking shoes and layers

🎟️ Get Your Tickets Now → 🚗 Browse the 2026 Docket →

Disclaimer: ScottsdaleSpot.com is an independent travel guide, not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. All images are stock photos for illustrative purposes only.

Planning to make a full Scottsdale trip around Barrett-Jackson week?

Check out our other insider guides:

• Best Hotels in Old Town Scottsdale — Where to stay for easy access to dining and nightlife
• Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale — Celebrate that winning bid in style
• Best Nightlife in Scottsdale — Post-auction entertainment in Old Town
• Best Day Trips from Scottsdale — Sedona, Grand Canyon & more
• Best Things to Do in Scottsdale — Beyond the auction

What’s the #1 car you’re hoping to see cross the block at Barrett-Jackson 2026?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear what brings you to the world’s greatest collector car auction.