Classic cars and community drive big crowds to Wisconsin Dells this weekend

WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. (WMTV) – The engines are ready to roar in Wisconsin Dells this weekend, as one of the state’s largest classic car shows cruises into town for its 39th year.

Thousands of cars are expected to fill the streets and parking lots from Mount Olympus Water and Theme Park to downtown’s Elm Street Plaza for the Automotion Classic Car Show.

“There’ll be more than 1,000 antique, classic, and vintage cars… everything from 1989 or before — 60s muscle cars, Model Ts, hot rods, Thunderbirds, Corvettes… you name it, it’ll all be there,” said Andy Larsen with the Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau.

New this year is Hollywood at Elm Street, a side event showcasing iconic vehicles from film and TV — including the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard, and the Bluesmobile.

The event also brings a full weekend of family-friendly activities like juggling acts, fire truck tours, face painting, and live music — all free to the public.

Beyond the chrome and nostalgia, many say it’s the spirit of the community that makes the weekend special — and safe.

“I can be honest that we didn’t experience things that would be out of control,” said Margaret Gewont, owner of Fitzgerald’s Motel. “We of course work closely with the Police Department, fire department, with the city, with the people in town. And we are like one big family. Everybody knows each other.”

Gewont says events like Autmotion draws repeat visitors who return year after year — sometimes even across generations.

“They grew up in Wisconsin Dells. They move out to New York or to Texas, or to California or another country. But once a while, their family members or by themselves come and visit Fitzgerald’s Motel again,” she said.

The car show has grown significantly since it first began nearly four decades ago, and now helps raise money for local organizations like food pantries, Shop With a Cop programs, and high school scholarships for students interested in automotive technology.

“It’s a great event to bring in tourism, the traffic,” Larsen said. “The Wisconsin Dells Police Department certainly is prepared for it and you know we anticipate everything will go smoothly.”

The show runs Saturday and Sunday across multiple venues in Wisconsin Dells. More information on the events can be found here.

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