Feel like a kid; walk around with wonder and awe at the 2013 Detroit North American International Auto Show. Think back to what it was like the first time you got behind the wheel of a car. An automobile symbolizes the freedom to be able to go where you want, when you want.
The challenge is picking your favorite. There's so many displays that wow and amaze. From race cars dangling from the ceiling to a Mini Cooper driving up the wall, each manufacturer is mind blowing.
Each auto maker attempts a different approach, from having all silver cars on display to creating comfortable cell phone charging areas that are like mini lounges, inviting guests to relax and enjoy. Feel as if you stepped into a college dorm at one display, get whisked away on a jungle safari next. From feeling as if you stepped into a garage for custom creations to feeling what it is like to be a tire on a bumpy road, there are so many things to take in, and don't forget to go downstairs for a test drive.
That's right. You can try out cars. In the basement, you can tool around a park-like course; pick a car.
Sign up to volunteer at Belle Isle. Get a free t-shirt. Don't forget your reusable shopping bag.
On a life-size Hot Wheels display that looks like an orange loop stolen from a child's play set and giant-sized, a heart-thumping Camaro seduces bystanders. Step in line, get your picture taken with friends, and launch a mini-sized Hot Wheels Camaro on a death-defying leap. Get a special edition Auto Show Camaro by Hot Wheels, so at least you leave the car show with a new car; it's good on gas.
Try your hand at being a spokesperson. Ford is conducting a talent search. Activate your blue card.
Make a video. Create a flip book. Get a pair of yellow glasses to take home with you, too.
Check out the glow-in-the-dark paint. Have your name written in light on a car. Watch it glow.
Gasp at the concept cars. Allow yourself to imagine what it would be like to drive. Lust in wait.
Learn about the local colleges that special in auto design, and be amazed by the miniature models of what future cars could look like. Stop by the miniature car display. Be shocked at what has already been driven on the road, things that you have never seen before but crave to get behind the wheel of.
Chat with a car spokesmodel. Get your picture taken with a beauty queen. Don't forget to pick up a Rainforest Cafe coupon or any of the number of handouts that vary from key chains to free pens.
It's a lot to take in. Put your scent on a few new cars. Feel the buttery leather on your skin.
There's so much to see and do, you might want to visit a couple different days. Luckily, there is still time to catch the Detroit North American International Auto Show at Cobo. Celebrating a quarter of a century, the Auto Show will run through January 27th; for more information, visit www.naias.com.
Marisa Williams is the author of 100 books. She received her Master's in Writing from the Johns Hopkins University. For more on Marisa, visit www.lulu.com/spotlight/thorisaz and www.wix.com/thorisaz/photography.
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