Top 4 Must See Auto Shows in the US

Car enthusiasts that follow the auto industry are well aware of the three must-see local car shows that take place in the U.S. every year - four if you're lucky enough to score a ticket to the invitation-only SEMA Show. Whether you follow the automotive trends, are in the market to buy a brand new model or simply enjoy taking a peek at the latest concept cars, these are the shows that you don't want to miss.

The top four national car shows:

1. SEMA-The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. Hosted by the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA), the SEMA show is not open to the general public. Scoring a ticket to SEMA means you're privy to the latest automotive products and developments in car manufacturing. Every year they feature over 1,500 newly-introduced parts, tools and components in their annual New Products Showcase. If you ever get an invitation to this show, you don't want to miss it.

2. Los Angeles-The L.A. Auto Show takes place every November at the Los Angeles Convention Center. When it premiered in 1907, only 99 cars were on display and a young Henry Ford made a surprise appearance. As the first ever car show on the West Coast, it was and still is the largest auto event west of Chicago. Today, the L.A. Auto Show features world debuts, concept cars, alternative fuel vehicles, aftermarket and project cars, design challenges and more.

3. Detroit-Starting in 1907 with only 17 exhibitors, the Detroit auto show was managed by the Detroit Area Dealer Association (DADA). In 1987, the Association set its sights higher by making the event truly national. The NAIAS (North American International Auto Show) has been presented in Detroit for over a century and features more than 60 exhibitors. In 2010, nearly 40 new models were unveiled to media outlets from over 60 countries.

4. Chicago-Beginning each year in early February, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest and longest-running local car show in North America. Started in 1901, it is produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), the nation's largest metropolitan dealer organization, and takes place in McCormick Place. This annual show is not only a popular destination for car enthusiasts and dealers, but also for families who enjoy an array of interactive displays, hands-on events, games, raffles and demonstrations.

These acclaimed auto shows offer an unmatched experience. Whether you'll be driving across town or across the country to attend, make sure you have the auto insurance coverage you need to stay safe on the road.

Shop around and find a reliable insurance company that offers the coverage you need today.

Jessica Penick is a senior content specialist at Rosetta, one of the top 10 interactive agencies in the country. Penick has a degree in English/Creative Writing from Cleveland State University. In addition to her traditional copywriting background, she also has valuable experience in the search engine optimization field. Originally from Cleveland, OH, she has also lived in London, England, as well as Tanzania and Uganda in East Africa.