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Woodward Dream Cruise returns this weekend. Here's what to know about parking, events and more

By Sara Powers

August 16, 2023 / 11:49 AM EDT / CBS Detroit

(CBS DETROIT) - The Woodward Dream Cruise is here for its 2023 season! Here's everything you need to know about the route, parking, free bus rides, community events and more!

When and where is the Woodward Dream Cruise? 

The event will happen on Saturday, Aug. 19, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

The Woodward Dream Cruise was founded in 1995 and goes through nine Oakland County communities along 16 miles of Woodward Avenue. 

The participating communities include Pontiac, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Royal Oak, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge and Ferndale. 

To view the official map for the event, visit here . 

What can visitors expect during the Woodward Dream Cruise?

Every year, the event draws in about 1.5 million people who can expect to see over 400,000 cars, including muscle, street rods, custom builds, collector cars and special edition vehicles participating in the cruise. 

Ford Motor Company is again the event's sponsor for the sixth consecutive year. 

"It's incredibly special to celebrate Ford's 120th Anniversary with Henry Ford's first race car along with our entire portfolio to help power the Woodward Dream Cruise," said Bryan Guldi, Ford U.S. branded activations manager, in a press release. "Collaborating with the Woodward Dream Cruise is very important to Ford Motor Company because we strive to contribute and give back in meaningful ways to the communities where we live, work... and cruise."

The 2023 Woodward Dream Cruise features the new Mustang Dark Horse, which is debuting this summer with an updated look and maintains manual transmission.

Ford will also feature its Bronco Raptor and F-150 Lightning at the event. 

Will there be construction during the Woodward Dream Cruise? 

The construction on Woodward Avenue from Eight Mile Road to Oakridge Street will pause for the event. 

Cars will have access to all four lanes of Woodward Avenue in both directions. 

Where to park during the Woodward Dream Cruise?

Parking is available along the route, and according to the Woodward Dream Cruise's website, here are some areas guests can find parking:

Royal Oak Golf Center: Corner of Coolidge and West 13 Mile Rd. Gunn Dyer Park: South of Normandy between Coolidge and Woodward. Upton Park: South of West 14 mile Rd and Coolidge.

• City of Birmingham: All activities are within walking distance of the city's downtown parking decks.
• City of Ferndale: The municipal parking lots surround downtown Ferndale, near Woodward Avenue & Nine Mile Rd.
• City of Pontiac: Municipal parking lots and structures surround downtown Pontiac.
• City of Royal Oak: Guest parking is available at municipal parking lots and within walking distance from Woodward. Specifically, guests can look for parking at the Royal Oak Golf Center, Gunn Dyer Park and Upton Park. 

In addition, the event website shared a Facebook account where the community shares more information about where visitors can find parking and other events. 

How to get SMART bus rides during the Woodward Dream Cruise?

During the Woodward Dream Cruise, the SMART Shuttle will be free for everyone who wants to ride. People can catch a ride at any of the SMART RED or FAST bus stops from Eight Mile Road to Pontiac. 

Where to buy Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise?

Official merchandise can be found at the following locations: 

• Ferndale City Hall, 300 East Nine Mile Rd., Downtown Ferndale (Mon - Thurs, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
• Nine Mile Road., east of Woodward Ave., Ferndale (Aug. 18 & 19)
• Pleasant Ridge City Hall, 23925 Woodward Ave., west of Woodward, south of I-696 (Aug. 19)
• Corner of West 12 Mile Road @ Woodward Avenue, Berkley (Aug. 18 & 19)
• Westborn Market - 27659 Woodward Ave., Berkley (Aug. 19)
• Zoe's Restaurant - 25994 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak (Aug. 18 & 19)
• Sherwin Williams - 27958 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak (Aug. 18 & 19)
• CVS Pharmacy, 30900 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak (Aug. 18 & 19)
• Gus's World Famous Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken, 31105 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak (Aug. 18 & 19)
• Kinkos - 33100 Woodward Ave., Birmingham (Aug. 19)
• West Maple Road, north corner of Woodward, 35075 Woodward Ave., Birmingham (Aug. 18, 19, & 20)
• Birmingham Cruise, Downtown Birmingham, Old Woodward Avenue - multiple locations (Aug. 19)

Other related events happening this weekend

• The Woodward Dream Cruise Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: This ceremony will start at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 18, on East Nine Mile Road at Woodward Avenue.
• Lights & Sirens Cruise: This parade will happen at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, following the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The procession will head north on Woodward to 11 Mile Road and return to Nine Mile Road. 
• Woodward Dream Show: This event is happening Friday and Saturday at the M-1 Concourse in Pontiac. To celebrate Corvette's 70th anniversary, they will have 70 Corvettes, one from each production year. In addition, they will also have a 1983 Corvette, which is the only one in the world! For more information on the Woodward Dream Show, visit here.
• Woodward Avenue
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Sara Powers is a digital producer for CBS Detroit. Sara covers local news, often focusing on crime, politics, entertainment and historical events for our "This Day in History" series.

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Local News | Photos from the Woodward Dream Cruise in Pontiac

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The 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise came to downtown Pontiac Saturday, Aug. 20. (Photos by Peg McNichol and A’Sante Lucas)

The 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise came to downtown Pontiac Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022. (Peg McNichol / MediaNews Group)

The 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise came to downtown Pontiac Saturday, Aug. 20. (A'Sante Lucas / for MediaNews Group)

The 28th annual Woodward Dream Cruise is set for Saturday, Aug. 19. (Photo by A'Sante Lucas — For MediaNews Group)

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The 27th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise Revving Up For The Largest Celebration Of Detroit Cars August 19, 2023

August 19, 2023.

(Update: July 17, 2023) — The 27th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise is North America’s largest automotive parade of classic cars.

The woodward cruise is the largest single car cruise in the country attracting over 1.5 million visitors, and over 40 thousand cars.

The Woodward Dream Cruise is a fascinating event with a rich history.

It all started when Pamela S. McCullough, Mayor, and Nelson House, a plumber from Ferndale, came up with the idea for the cruise in 1994 to help raise money for a children’s soccer field in his community.

They envisioned a small gathering of car enthusiasts, but the event quickly grew beyond his wildest dreams.

The inaugural woodward cruise took place in August 1995, and it was an instant hit. The original expectation was for 30,000 to 40,000 spectators, but the actual turnout was a whopping 250,000.

Starting in Pontiac and ending in Ferndale, The Woodward Dream Cruise 2023 will parade over forty thousand vintage Detroit muscle cars up and down Woodward Avenue, attracting over 1.5 million visitors.

Since then, the Woodward Cruise has grown exponentially. Today, it attracts over 1.5 million people and 40,000 classic cars each year, making it the world’s largest one-day automotive event.

The Woodward Dream Cruise is a celebration of Detroit’s automotive history and a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars.

The event spans a 16-mile stretch of Woodward Avenue and includes nine communities from Ferndale to Pontiac. It’s not just about the cars, though. The Woodward Dream Cruise is a community event, with live music, street vendors, and family-friendly activities adding to the festive atmosphere.

Started in 1995, the 16-mile car parade cruises directly up and down Woodward Avenue, passing through the cities of Pontiac, Birmingham, Royal Oak, Bloomfield Township, Huntington Woods, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Pleasant Ridge, and Berkley.

The Woodward Dream Cruise is a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of classic cars. It’s a celebration of Detroit’s rich automotive history and a chance for car enthusiasts from around the world to come together and share their passion.

VIDEO: “WXYZ-TV’s 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise Special Live Broadcast”

Over 1.5 million people are expected with more than forty thousand ‘50s and ‘60s classic cars for the famous 16-mile Woodward Dream Cruise in the suburbs in NE Detroit. Ford Motors will be the primary sponsor for the cruise for the fifth consecutive year.

Woodward Dream Cruise Board Members & Executive Team For general comments and questions, please email the Woodward Dream Cruise at [email protected] . The following is the official listing of the nine participating community board representatives and the WDC Executive Team. Mailing address: 1200 Kirts, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48084. Phone: (248)546-1573.

2023 Woodward Dream Cruise Date: August 18 & 19, 2023 Location : Woodward Avenue in Oakland County (From Pontiac the Ferndale) Price: FREE Description:   Anyone is welcome to take part, however, those not operating a historic car are urged to avoid the two right lanes that are closest to the curb. Visit the website for further details about the schedule of events and the route.

The 28th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise Revving Up For The Largest Celebration Of Detroit Cars August 19, 2023.

OFFICIAL WOODWARD DREAM CRUISE ROAD MAP

The 16-Mile Woodward Dream Cruise Travels Through The Above (Image) Cities; Pontiac, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Berkley, Ferndale, And Huntington Woods From Sunrise To Sunset On August 20, 2022

Woodward Cruise Streaming Live Broadcast Scheldule

The Woodward Cruise Will Be Broadcast Live Over The WXYZ TV Channel And August 19, 2023. WXYZ-TV Channel 7 www.wxyz.com/dreamcruise WXYZ-TV’s 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise Special

Also, the Woodward Cruise car show will be broadcast live over the internet and radio – www.audacy.com/womc/

Cruise in Shoes

The Woodward Dream Cruise is not just about classic cars; it also includes a unique event known as “Cruise in Shoes.” This event is a 5K run/walk that takes place on the morning of the Dream Cruise. It’s a chance for participants to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Cruise in a different way, on foot rather than from behind the wheel.

“Cruise in Shoes” kicks off at 7:30 AM, and the course takes participants down a stretch of Woodward Avenue, allowing them to experience the excitement of the Dream Cruise before the classic cars take over. It’s a family-friendly event, with participants of all ages and fitness levels welcome.

The event is professionally timed, and medals are awarded to the top finishers in each age group. But it’s not just about competition; it’s also about community. “Cruise in Shoes” is a chance to get out and enjoy the Dream Cruise atmosphere while also getting some exercise.

Whether you’re a serious runner looking for a unique race or a casual walker who wants to enjoy the Dream Cruise in a new way, “Cruise in Shoes” is a fun and exciting part of the Woodward Dream Cruise experience.

To participate in Cruise In Shoes, please pre-register online at www.CruiseinShoes.com/registration or sign-up on the day of the event at Royal Oak Shrine High School.

FULL SCHEDULE of EVENTS

City of Berkley (Starting Line) ► Friday, August 18, 2023: ► 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: CruiseFest Classic Car Parade, On West 12 Mile Rd., between Coolidge & Greenfield Rd. ► 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, West 12 Mile @ Woodward Avenue ► Saturday, August 19, 2023: ALL DAY: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, West 12 Mile Rd @ Woodward Avenue www.berkleymich.org/cruisefest

City of Birmingham (Halfway Point to Pontiac) Saturday, August 19, 2023: ►  9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Birmingham Cruise at S. Old Woodward & Maple to Lincoln ► Birmingham event includes a Classic Car Show, Interactive Sponsor Displays, Retail & Food Vendors ► WHEN: ALL DAY: The City of Birmingham is the place to be if you want to walk the street freely among the classic car collections. Birmingham also offers plenty of places to wine, dine, and shop for you, your friends, and your family. www.AllinBirmingham.com/CruiseEvent

City of Ferndale Friday, August 18, 2023 – Nine Mile Rd & Woodward ► 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Ferndale Emergency Vehicle Show ► 5:00 PM: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Ribbon Cutting Ceremony ► 5:30 PM: Lights & Sirens Cruise (begins at the corner of E. Nine Mile Rd & Woodward Ave. north to 11 Mile Rd and back). ► 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Kids Car Club Zone ► 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Quarter Midget Racing ► 1:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Rock’n Live Entertainment Stage ALL DAY: The City of Ferndale will offer entertainment, good eats, food from vendors, libations, and Dream Cruis Memorabilia.

City of Ferndale Saturday, August 19, 2023 – @ Nine Mile Rd & Woodward ► 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Mustang Alley ► 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Kids Car Club Zone ► 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM: Rock’n Live Entertainment Stage ► ALL DAY: The City of Ferndale will offer good eats, food from Vendors, and Dream Cruise Memorabilia. www.FerndaleDreamCruise.com

City of Royal Oak Friday, August 18, 2023: ► 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Performance Park Classic Car Show ► ALL DAY: City of Royal Oak will offer the Official Woodward Dream Cruise Memorabilia and Car Art

Saturday, August 19, 2023: ► 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Cruise In Shoes 5k Run ► 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM: Performance Park Classic Car Show Hours ► ALL DAY: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, Vendors & Food Court

City of Royal Oak Friday, August 18, 2023: ► 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Performance Park Classic Car Show ► ALL DAY: Royal Oak Offers A Wide Variety Of Woodward Dream Cruise Memorabilia and will be serving food all day.

Saturday, August 19, 2023: ► 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Cruise In Shoes 5k Run ► 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM: Performance Park Classic Car Show Hours ► ALL DAY: The Official Woodward Dream Cruise Will Offer Merchandise, Collectibles, and Food Vendors

City of Pleasant Ridge Saturday, August 19, 2023: ► ALL DAY: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise will be available at Woodward & Oakland Park Blvd. ► 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Is The Featured Ford Bronco Show at Woodward & Oakland Park Blvd.

City Of Pontiac (Finishing Line) August 18 & 19, 2023: ► M-1 Classic Car Parade ( M1 Dream Cruise Car Collector Location) ► Pontiac Classic Car Show ► Live entertainment and other fun activities. ► ALL DAY: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, vendors & food court. www.pontiac.mi.us

ABOUT THE M1 CAR CLUB The M1 Car Club is set to host an exhilarating event featuring live entertainment and unique driving experiences for car collectors at the Champion Motor Speedway, located within the M1 Concourse Car Club . This year, the club will be celebrating the Woodward Dream Car Show across all three days, showcasing a diverse array of hot rods, custom cruisers, muscle cars, and supercars, amounting to hundreds of significant vehicles.

The show is designed to highlight various car classes and marques, fostering a celebration of automotive enthusiasm right in the heart of the Motor City. This year holds special significance as the M1 Car Club will be commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Corvette, as well as the 65th anniversary of MOPAR and Ramchargers. The event promises to be a vibrant tribute to these iconic brands, reflecting the rich history and passion that defines the world of car enthusiasts.

Read About Detoit’s Woodward Cruise on Face Book…

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Woodward Dream Cruise returns, drawing thousands of classic car fans

The sweltering, sweat-inducing heat didn't stop throngs of classic car fans from descending on Woodward Avenue on Saturday for the 26th annual Dream Cruise.

Families and friends and people of all ages gathered along the road and on traffic medians as far as the eye could see, seeking refuge from the sun under tents and umbrellas. Most came prepared with lawn chairs, snacks, water and beer.

Billed as America's largest one-day automotive gathering, the Woodward Dream Cruise stretches from Pontiac to Ferndale and features tens of thousands of vintage cars. The event sponsored by Ford typically draws more than a million onlookers and runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Detroiter Lyndon Joyce joined the fun in Ferndale, arriving at 11 a.m. He's a self-proclaimed car enthusiast — but he mostly loves being around people. 

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"This is an outstanding thing that happens every year," Joyce said. "It's a good way for the pandemic to get over. ... This is letting people know, Detroit is a mecca for everything."

Of course, last year during the height of the pandemic, the cruise didn't happen. And it seems car fans were ready to get back to the business of cruising on Saturday.

Angie and Rex Jones drove in from Hell, Michigan, to attend the cruise for the fifth time. The Joneses set up their chairs near Mustang Alley in Ferndale and were thrilled to see some '60s Mustangs cruise by.  

"It's nice, it's relaxed," Angie Jones said. "Everybody seems like they're having a good time, but it doesn't seem as crowded this year."

Although some event-goers said the crowd was smaller than usual, businesses along Woodward said they were grateful for the spike in customers, especially after struggling during the pandemic. 

Joyce said an event like the Dream Cruise could only happen in the Motor City, and it's indicative of how metro Detroiters can come together. He said everyone's been very friendly and sharing supplies, like water, to help each other out. 

"Look at this," Joyce said. "I have never seen any problems, and I've been coming to this just about since it started. I'm a car enthusiast myself ... but the best thing is seeing people come together."

Contact Emma Stein: [email protected].

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Woodward Dream Cruise

It's the motor city's favorite car event every year..

Woodward Dream Cruise Woodward Avenue from Ferndale to Pontiac Royal Oak, Michigan 48070

Distance In Miles

• Detroit Metro Airport: 30
• Downtown Detroit: 15

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Dream Cruise weekend underway in Metro Detroit

‘when you find the guy who sanded and painted his car in his driveway, and it looks as good as the cars at pebble beach car, you go, boy, that’s a craftsman’.

Mara MacDonald , Reporter

Brandon Carr , Digital Content Producer

PONTIAC, Mich. – Woodward Avenue was packed Friday night as Dream Cruise weekend kicked off.

The event always draws massive crowds along Woodward Avenue, and you might be surprised by who you run into while checking things out.

Stay on Woodward Avenue long enough, and you’ll see everything from the vintage collection to the new cars, the supercharged, and everything in between.

“Everything that my father is right there,” said Russ Rhue. “This is what he loved and what I love.”

A 1967 Pontiac GTO seen in the video player above has been a passion project for Rhue’s family.

“When you put your blood, sweat, and tears into it and it’s related to your family, it’s like having a dog, and it’s part of the family,” Rhue said.

A familiar face was out and about looking at the Vintage Dara at the M1 Concourse Friday (Aug. 19) and echoed the same sentiment, as he was causing quite a few to do double and triple takes.

“When you find the guy who sanded and painted his car in his driveway, and it looks as good as the cars at Pebble Beach car, you go, ‘boy, that’s a craftsman,” said Jay Leno .

Leno is in the Motor City working on a new season of Jay Leno’s Garage and car care products rolling out at Wal-Mart.

The Dream Cruise is his second time coming to cruise on Woodward Avenue, and he says he has a soft spot for Detroit .

When he was 16 years old, he was the lot boy at a Ford dealership in Massachusetts. That meant he took the hubcaps off every night and put them on again the next day.

“So one day, I was carrying a bunch of hubcaps (in my arms) filled, and the used car manager turns around the corner and bangs into me, and they all fall,” Leno said. “He (the used car manager) goes and says, ‘you’re fired,’ and I go, ‘but you banged into me.’”

The manager fired Leno on the spot.

Leno said he was too embarrassed to tell his parents, so he wrote letters to Henry Ford II and the board members asking for his job back.

“About two weeks go by, and the general manager says, ‘I don’t know who you know in Detroit, but you can have your job back,’ so I always thanked Henry Ford II for getting me my job back,” Leno said. “Hank the deuce.”

The moral of the story is that it never hurts to write to the CEO and that you never know who will show up to the cruise.

Copyright 2022 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Mara macdonald, brandon carr.

Brandon Carr is a digital content producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with WDIV Local 4 since November 2021. Brandon is the 2015 Solomon Kinloch Humanitarian award recipient for Community Service.

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Woodward Dream Cruise 2023 Dream Cruise guide for parking, timing, and events

FERNDALE, Mich. (FOX 2) - Rev up your engines and get ready for the ride of your life. If you're planning on attending the Woodward Dream Cruise, buckle up and read on to discover everything you need to know before attending.

The Woodward Dream Cruise is one of the largest car events in the world, featuring classic cars, muscle cars, and hot rods from all over the United States. 

The event takes place on Woodward Avenue, which spans nine cities and is revered as the "Main Street of America" for car enthusiasts.

READ NEXT: Woodward Dream Cruise will take place without construction barrels present

Rest assured, traffic won't be an issue on Woodward during the Dream Cruise. Despite road construction in the area during the summer, the event will not be affected.

When and where

The Woodward Dream Cruise takes place on Saturday, Aug. 18-19 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Drivers will start cruising in Ferndale and make their way over to Pontiac.

Participation in the event as a driver or spectator is free of charge. However, non-classic car drivers are requested to avoid the two right lanes closest to the curb.

More: Chrome and muscle: Unofficial start to Dream Cruise kicks off on Woodward

Birmingham: All activities are within walking distance of the city’s downtown parking decks.

Ferndale: The municipal parking lots are surrounding downtown Ferndale, near Woodward Avenue & Nine Mile Rd.

Pontiac : Municipal parking lots and parking structures are located in surrounding downtown Pontiac.

Royal Oak : Guest parking is available at municipal parking lots and walking distance from Woodward.

•   Royal Oak Golf Center: Corner of Coolidge and West 13 Mile Rd.
• Gunn Dyer Park: South of Normandy between Coolidge and Woodward.
• Upton Park: South of West 14 mile Rd and Coolidge.

Local events

Many of the communities along the route will also have their own city-specific events for residents to attend. Many take place on Friday when the dream cruise officially kicks off.

• Berkley: CruiseFest Classic Car Parade on Friday, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30
• Ferndale: Emergency Vehicle Show on Friday, 1 p.m. to 7, Ribbon cutting ceremony at 5 p.m., Lights & Sirens Cruise at 5:30 p.m., MMRA's Quarter Midget Racing Cars from 12 p.m. to 8, Rock'n Live Entertainment Stage from 1 p.m. to 9:30, Mustang Alley on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,
• Royal Oak: Performance Park Classic Car Show on Friday from 12 p.m. to 7, Cruise in Shoes 5K from 8 a.m. to 9: 30
• Pleasant Ridge: Ford Bronco Show on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Pontiac: Pontiac Classic Car Show on Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., DJ Aaron at Hidden River from 12: 30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Woodward Dream Parade on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30

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Woodward Dream Cruise 2023 in Detroit | Dates, Schedule of Events, Where to Park, Map, M1 Concourse | Where to Eat | Check Out the World's Biggest Cruise!

By Sherry Trautman

Last updated: August 17, 2023 | By Sherry Trautman | Travel-Mi.com

The Detroit Woodward Dream Cruise is the mothership of all car events. It's a celebration of Woodward Ave and car enthusiasm in the heart of the Motor City. I mean seriously, this incredible car cruise draws thousands of classic cars, muscle cars, trucks (and lots of crazy stuff ) to thunder down Woodward Avenue between Pontiac and Ferndale. 

Chris and I can't wait to go this August !

AND...more than 1.5 million car enthusiasts from all over the world are revved up to see some spectacular (and crazy) vehicles!

See the World's Biggest Cruise!

When is the 2023 Woodward Dream Cruise?

August 19, 2023!

BUT ... several communities have fun events and classic car shows on August 18, 2023. See the event schedule below!

The Woodward Dream Cruise is the World's Biggest Cruise?

Woodward Dream Cruise Frequently Asked Questions 

What day is the Woodward Dream Cruise 2023? August 19, 2023

Is the Woodward Dream Cruise free? Yes, the Dream Cruise is free to attend! 

How long does the Woodward Dream Cruise last? The cruise is just one day!

• Anyone not driving a classic/muscle car are asked to stay out of the two right lanes nearest to the curb.

What time is the Woodward Dream Cruise?  9 am to 9 pm.  BUT many people with show cars in the static car shows begin to leave parked shows (as they want to cruise) around 3:30 pm so I recommend hitting up the shows in the morning.

Are Their Bathrooms?   In the more populated areas, especially in Royal Oak, there are porta johns along Woodward Avenue. 

Is it Safe To Attend?   As with any large city, don't leave your items unattended. Make sure your bags/purses are zipped and closed. There is a very large police presence at the show and we felt comfortable.  We recommend going as it is a great family event!

Is This Your First Time at the Woodward Dream Cruise?

If it’s your first time to the show , we recommend finding a spot somewhere between Royal Oak and Birmingham as this stretch gets the most traffic and excitement. 

We recommend arriving early so you can find parking off Woodward Avenue before the side streets and lots are full.

We recommend bringing:

• Ear plugs if you are noise sensitive (especially for young children)
• Folding chairs with umbrellas 
• Water/non-alcoholic drinks
• TP (in case the porta johns are out)

The Dream Cruise Consists of 9 Communities within Oakland County, Michigan

• Bloomfield Hills
• Pleasant Ridge

Bloomfield Township

• Huntington Woods

History of the Woodward Dream Cruise

Woodward Dream Cruise was dreamed up as a small fundraiser to raise money for a soccer field in Ferndale, Michigan. Then, in August 1995, a group of people wished to relive the fun of the 50's and 60's, when music and Motor City steel roared down Woodward Avenue.  Blowing away expectations, the event drew 250,000 people!

​ Now, the Woodward Dream Cruise is the World’s Largest One-Day Automotive Event!

The Cruise brings about 1.5 million people and 40,000 classic cars to the area each summer.

People travel from all over the world to attend and be in the show.  It's an incredible experience!

Woodward Dream Cruise Map

*** Remember to use the  Woodward Dream Cruise Map link   for LIVE connection  to Google Maps!!

• Click on the plus and minus in the left corner to zoom in or out of the map.
• Click on the icons for more info, addresses and photos of the stops.
• Click on the map to drag and move it to view surrounding areas.
• In the Header, click on the rectangle in the upper left of the map to see a menu of all of our stops. Click on anything that looks interesting to see where it is on the map. To hide the menu, click the rectangle in the header.
• In the Header, click on the "square" icon in the upper right side to expand the map for better viewing.

Detroit Woodward Dream Cruise Schedule of Events (August 18-19, 2023) and Where to Park

The official parking App for Woodward Dream Cruise is ParkStash

M1 Concourse Events During the Woodward Dream Cruise

Friday, August 18, 2023: 

Hot rod, custom, cruiser, and muscle car show displayed around the M1 Circuit.  Featured classes include the 70th anniversary of Corvette, MOPAR, and Ramchargers 65th anniversary. Food trucks, refreshments, and live entertainment.

Saturday, August 19, 2023

The Woodward Dream Parade is an escorted parade of 200 invited cars that will be cruising on Woodward Avenue and in downtown Pontiac.

The M1 Cruise-In (Saturday August 19th) will be an oasis open to anyone looking to park on the M1 Concourse Circuit. We will be there!!

Experience Race Speed Track Experience (RSTEs) where you can can take a lap with a professional driver on the M1 Concourse Circuit. Food trucks, refreshments, and live entertainment.

Get your tickets for the MI Concourse events . 

City of Pontiac

It's definitely a burn out zone along Woodward Avenue in Pontiac!   

Friday, August 18, 2023:

• 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM: Pontiac Classic Car Show
• 12:30 PM – 6:30 PM: DJ Aaron @ Hidden River
• 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Hidden River Entertainment Stage, Saginaw & Water St.
• All Day: Food Trucks & Strolling Art Show

Saturday, August 19, 2023:

• 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Woodward Dream Parade
• 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM: Pontiac Classic Car Show
• 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM: Hidden River Entertainment Stage, Saginaw & Water St.

City of Pontiac Parking:  There are several parking lots and parking structures in downtown Pontiac.

No scheduled events

City of Birmingham

The Birmingham Cruise Event will feature classic cars of all makes and models, sponsor exhibits, food and more. The Birmingham Cruise Classic Car Show is within walking distance of Birmingham's five parking structures.  The first two hours are always free so stop by! 

• 9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Birmingham Cruise Classic Car Show in Downtown Birmingham
• Birmingham Cruise

Get your Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise all day.

City of Birmingham Parking:  All Dream Cruise activities are close  walking distance from Birmingham's downtown parking decks.

WXYZ-TV Live Broadcast

WOMC 104.3 FM Live Broadcast

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City of Berkley

• 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: CruiseFest Classic Car Parade, On West 12 Mile Rd., between Coolidge & Greenfield Rd.
• 4:00 PM – 9:00PM: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, West 12 Mile at Woodward Avenue

Saturday, August 19, 2023 :

• All Day: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, West 12 Mile Rd at Woodward Avenue

City of Royal Oak

Friday, August 18, 2023 :

• 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Performance Park - Classic Car Show
• ALL DAY: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, Vendors & Food Court
• 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Cruise In Shoes 5k Run
• 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM: Performance Park Classic Car Show
• All Day: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, Vendors & Food Court

City of Pleasant Ridge

• All Day: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, Woodward & Oakland Park Blvd.
• 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Ford Bronco Show , Woodward & Oakland Park Blvd.

City of Ferndale

Friday, August 18, 2023 – Nine Mile Rd & Woodward

• 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Ferndale Emergency Vehicle Show
• 5:00 PM: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
• 5:30 PM: Lights & Sirens Cruise (begins at the corner of E. Nine Mile Rd & Woodward Ave. north to 11 Mile Rd and back).
• 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Kids Car Club Zone
• 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM: MMRA'S Quarter Midget Racing Cars
• 1:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Rock’n Live Entertainment Stage
• All Day: Official Woodward Dream Cruise Merchandise, food and merchant vendors

Saturday, August 19, 2023 - Nine Mile Rd & Woodward

• 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Mustang Alley
• 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Kids Car Club Zone
• 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM: Rock’n Live Entertainment Stage

City of Ferndale Parking : Parking lots surround downtown Ferndale, near Woodward Avenue & Nine Mile Rd.

Things to do Nearby the Woodward Dream Cruise

Cranbrook Art Museum , 39221 Woodward Avenue. Cranbrook has a marvelous music or science center. Their gardens are also excellent and you can tour:

• The Saarinen House
• Behind the scenes collections wing tour
• Frank Lloyd Wright home
• Self-guided outdoors sculpture tours
• Cranbrook Observatory

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical - Listed as one of the World Almanac’s 100 Most Unusual Museums, this is a place you need to see to believe. Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum,  31005 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills

My friend Marcy highly recommends eating at Sylvan Table which we will try this year. It is a farm-to-table restaurant. The restaurant is in a few hundred year old barn they moved from the east coast and built a farm around it. Cool, huh!

• Other restaurant ideas that come highly recommended from locals include the Latin restaurant Freya and The Apparatus Room.

Are There Bathrooms at the Woodward Dream Cruise?

There are lots of porta johns along Woodward Ave in the more populated areas. Memorial Park in Royal Oak has a large bank of porta johns for the classic car show. 

Are There Food Trucks or Places to Eat at Woodward Dream Cruise?

Absolutely! There are food trucks and vendors lining Woodward avenue in the more populated areas, especially Royal Oak and Ferndale. There are also lots of great restaurants along Woodward Avenue.

We enjoy eating at Brown Iron Brewhouse in Royal Oak .

• Chris was eyeing the Brown Iron Burger with Wagyu Beef, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese and a yummy caramelized onion spread but got the Slow Smoke BBQ Pork sandwich with yummy pickles!
• I got the Cali salmon BLT with avocado crema...be sure to order extra crema, it's yummy!

Um, can you say BACON CANDY?  Drool. 

Grab Lunch or Dinner at Detroit's Diners Drive Ins and Dives While Enjoying the Woodward Dream Cruise!

Here's another idea ....

Grab a meal at Detroit's Diners Drive Ins and Dive's ! Guy Fieri style! And here's ALL of Michigan's Diners Drive Ins and Dives!

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About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

Thanks for stopping by.

Our Words of Wisdom: “Never follow anyone else’s path. Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, then by all means follow that path.”

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We're Sherry and Chris the founders of one of Michigan's most comprehensive and Top Travel Blogs!

Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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Pontiac Transportation Museum aims to shine spotlight on city's auto industry impact

PONTIAC, Mich. (WXYZ) — From the outside, it may look like a former school in Pontiac, but the building isn't done helping people get an education.

That’s because dedicated volunteers are in the process of transforming 250 West Pike Street into the Pontiac Transportation Museum , a place aimed at celebrating the rich history of the city’s impact on the auto industry.

"It's trucks, it's cars, it's motorized bicycles, it's wartime conversion and so forth, anything on wheels. Pontiac just has this tremendous legacy that inspired us all to to jump into doing this," said Terry Connolly.

Connolly is a passionate volunteer, and board member for the Pontiac Transportation Museum nonprofit.

"Everybody kind of knows that the Pontiac brand grew up in Pontiac. So did the GMC brand, actually. But it turns out when we did the study, there's about 44 companies that built and engineered vehicles in Pontiac, motorized vehicles in Pontiac," said Connolly.

For Mark Thomas, who gifted the school to the Pontiac Transportation Museum, this place is special to him.

"Not to know your history is like being a leaf that does not know it's part of a tree. And so hopefully ... all those people out there are going to be know where they're from a little bit better, especially if they're from Pontiac," said Thomas.

Inside the museum, you’ll find rarities, and one-of-a-kind rides.

"We have two Olympian brand cars, [you] probably never heard of Olympian brand, but they were the only two Olympians in the world. They were built here in Pontiac. The Rapid truck itself, by the way, is one of four in the world. So a lot of very unique stuff," he said.

And there’s also a 2010 Pontiac G6 sedan — the very last Pontiac to roll off the line.

"It's kind of neat for us that when you roll back the carpeting in the trunk and in the interior compartment, so forth. All the workers signed that car because they were all kind of emotionally affected by it being the last Pontiac, I think," said Connolly.

The stories here are endless, revved back to life by every vehicle in this place, and the volunteers who have put in years of work.

"It probably approaches 10,000 hours of volunteer time over that timeframe," he said.

And now good news — a soft opening on Dream Cruise day with more opening times to follow.

"We'll probably continue that soft opening with weekend openings and so forth. But pending the money, we could actually execute the rest of the project inside of about two years, but it really depends funding for the rest of the building," he said.

One major focus here will be STEM outreach, and a possible restoration arm down the road to teach people more about vehicles and Pontiac’s rich history in the industry.

"I frankly think it's a really long-term runway. I would like to ensure that my grandkids are coming to this museum and see it as a as a reflection of this legacy. Pontiac has the tremendous history," said Connolly.

To learn more about the PTM and to donate, click here.

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Apr 10, 2024 | ford performance staff, fords, lincolns and mercurys kick off cars & coffee events at m1 concourse.

PONTIAC, Mich. – One of the first signs of spring for enthusiasts in The Motor City area is the cars & coffee monthly cruise-in season opener for the M1 Concourse. This facility in Pontiac, Michigan, (just north of Detroit) is a car-lover’s dream, with a 1.5-mile road course track, a paved skid pad, and a few hundred private-garage man caves (with a scant few still available for purchase).

Over the fair-weather months, the crew at M1 open the gates to the general public for a mega “Cars & Coffee” event. Car owners bring the vehicles, while local sponsors supply the coffee and donuts. You’ll need walking shoes if you plan to see all the vehicles that show up for these gatherings. Early arriving attendees wind up parking up and down the skid pad, as well as multiple vendors and any M1 concourse display vehicles. Once that fills up, they begin parking vehicles on either side of the track, which fills up quickly when the weather is pleasant.

The M1 Cruise-ins start each year in the spring and take place the first Saturday of each month through the fall. As you might expect, Ford fans have plenty to see at an M1 Cars & Coffee, from classic Mustangs and Fords to Shelby GT350’s and GT500’s, to Focus RS’s and even Ford GT’s. Our own super-enthusiast and longtime photojournalist, Ford retiree Bill Cook, visited M1 last week when Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles were the featured marques at the facility’s first Cars and Coffee event for 2024 (although all brands were invited).

“With it being early April in Michigan, a good number of us (including me) still have their cars in storage.” Cook told us. “I should have mine out later this month. But I enjoyed an accelerating/exhilarating ride to the event at 7:15 a.m. with Daniel Teoh in his Pastel Blue 1970 Mustang Boss 302. There a was a strong turnout on this sunny morning with temps in the high 30's to low 40’s.” As you can see from Bill’s photo gallery below, there were plenty of fine Blue Oval rides in attendance that morning. Enjoy:

FORD PERFORMANCE PHOTOS / COURTESY BILL COOK

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