You don’t have to be a classic car buff to enjoy the excitement and history of the Concours d’Elegance Greenwich.
Considering it happens half an hour away from New York City, this fantastic automotive event is a great way to spend a weekend in CT in June.
You can easily access the site itself, Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, from I-95 in downtown Greenwich. And best of all, the park overlooks the Long Island Sound, from Greenwich Harbor.
If you’re looking for an excuse for a weekend getaway, scoop up some tickets. Then plan a trip to Greenwich for cars, shopping, and fun at the Concours d’Elegance 2023.
What is the Concours d’Elegance?
A “Concours” is an exhibition or contest focused on classic vehicles in ideal condition. In most cases, a Concours also includes prizes awarded to the cars that are closest to their original, pristine condition. The Concours d’Elegance is a Greenwich tradition dating back to 1996. As the brainchild of classic car aficionados Bruce and Genia Wennerstrom, the weekend is not just a celebration of the automobile. It also honors the rich heritage of the Greenwich community. The event is now recognized as one of the top five “Concours” in the world.
It’s also one of the best summer festivals in all Connecticut.
Expanding the Automotive Experience
While your interest and knowledge of cars may be limited, this is not your run-of-the-mill car show.
This is a Concours where you will likely discover a new way of looking at automobiles. Vintage, classic, and retro cars at the event represent the best in class for their makes and models.
They are polished to perfection, with gleaming metal and colorful finishes that speak to the artistry of auto design.
Think of this event as a gallery of design, where the unexpected attention to every detail of the car reflects the finest craftsmanship of its era.
It’s one of the world’s greatest temporary museums honoring the art of auto design, against the picturesque backdrop of the Long Island Sound.
Hands-On the Wheel Experiences
If you’re still not convinced, keep in mind the event is not just about cars.
A new format includes both automotive and high-end experiences where you can:
- Enjoy exquisite food and wine
- Tour the cars on display
- And even take advantage of classic Ride and Drive opportunities
The Concours strives to create what they consider “hands on the wheel” experiences, so guests of all walks of life begin to grasp the classic car’s appeal.
You can also attend the Saturday evening waterfront party. There, you’ll rub elbows with participants in the event, as well as fellow car enthusiasts. While you might not leave the event as an expert, you will have a newfound appreciation for the refined silhouette of the classic car.
And from this writer’s experience, an amateur walking onto the field won’t feel like they’ve walked into the typical gym. Car enthusiasts at the Concours d’Elegance are warm and open to newcomers to the passion.
The event takes place from June 2nd to the 4th at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich. The location on Greenwich Harbor is easy to get to from I-95, as well as a short walk from the Greenwich Train Station.
More things to do in Greenwich during the Concours d’Elegance
The Concours d’Elegance car show could take-up your entire weekend. That said, there are so many more things to do in Greenwich, Connecticut.
Especially on a June or May weekend!
Even a short walk from Roger Sherman Baldwin can put you in reach of:
- Lounging on one of the best Greenwich beaches, Island Beach
- Enjoying a glass of wine on a patio overlooking Greenwich Harbor at a top downtown Greenwich restaurant
- Discovering the elegant shopping experience in the downtown Greenwich shopping district
Need some peace and quiet while you’re here?
Then you’re just minutes from peaceful Connecticut hiking trails. It’s the perfect way to start your morning before heading down to the show.
And Roger Sherman Baldwin Park is only 1.4 miles from Stanton House Inn, your home away from home in Greenwich. Our elegantly charming inn is the perfect place to relax after a day of touring the cars and enjoying all that Greenwich has to offer. And we are one of only two places to stay in Greenwich that are within walking distance of this Greenwich event.
Just sayin’.
