(Words and Photos by Jim Hrody) World of Wheels has been coming to the Milwaukee area for decades, and this year marked the 60th annual edition. Held inside the Wisconsin State Fair Expo Center, the entire show fits in the space of a single large exhibit hall.
However, in years past, it’s overflowed into the hallways, even spilled over into other buildings but now is on the smaller side of the Autorama circuit. Still, it’s a decent enough show especially when justified with the lower cost of admission as compared to larger venues on the tour.
The Milwaukee W.O.W. is further differentiated by a higher percentage of competition vehicles than the others, mostly from the local oval tracks and drag strips. Sprint Cars, Late Model Stock Cars, and Pro Stocks are spread throughout. Everything is rounded out by the usual restored classics, street machines, and trucks.
Another tradition at the show is 1/24 scale slot car drag racing. Competitor’s cars are proudly displayed around the track, and at certain points of the day races happen, and those things are fast. There’s also a model car contest held nearby.
While the show is one of the smaller on the W.O.W./Autorama circuit, it’s still worth checking out. Be sure to pick up some cheese and beer while in the neighborhood!