AAPEX 2026 — Complete Attendee Guide
AAPEX (Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo) is the premier event for the automotive aftermarket industry, drawing over 50,000 professionals to Las Vegas. Held at the Venetian Expo and co-located with SEMA Show at the LVCC, AAPEX showcases parts, accessories, tools, and technology for the auto repair, collision, and performance industries. Whether you are a shop owner, distributor, manufacturer, or technician, this guide covers everything you need for a productive show and a great time in Vegas.
Quick Info
In This Guide
Registration
AAPEX Badge Pickup — Location & Hours
Badge pickup and registration is located on Level 1 of the Venetian Expo. Pre-registered attendees can use express kiosks with their confirmation QR code. Registration opens the Monday before the show. If you are also attending SEMA, note that SEMA badges are picked up separately at the LVCC.
Schedule
AAPEX Show Floor Hours
AAPEXedu sessions begin as early as 7:30 AM. SEMA runs concurrently at the LVCC — free shuttle service connects the two shows. Friday is a short day for both AAPEX and SEMA.
Transportation
How to Get to AAPEX
Parking
Use The Venetian parking garage for Venetian Expo or park at Harrah's / The LINQ for Caesars Forum. Self-parking is typically $15–20 during conventions.
Public Transit / Monorail
Both venues are near the Harrah's / The LINQ monorail station. The Venetian Expo connects to The Venetian hotel and Caesars Forum connects to the Harrah's / LINQ / Flamingo complex.
Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)
Rideshare pickup and dropoff is available at both The Venetian and LINQ entrances on Las Vegas Blvd.
Walking from the Strip
Both venues are right on the Strip. The walk between the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum takes about 12–15 minutes along the Strip or through connected hotel walkways.
Food & Drink
Where to Eat During AAPEX
- Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian — 40+ restaurants
- LINQ Promenade — casual outdoor dining and bars
- Caesars Palace Forum Shops — upscale dining
- Flamingo food court and restaurants — budget-friendly options nearby
Insider Tips
AAPEX Tips for First-Timers
- If you are attending both AAPEX and SEMA, plan separate days for each. Trying to do both in one day is exhausting and you will not see either show properly.
- AAPEX focuses on the business side of the aftermarket — parts, tools, technology, and shop management. SEMA focuses on the enthusiast and performance side.
- Free shuttles run between the Venetian Expo (AAPEX) and the LVCC (SEMA) throughout the day. The ride takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Between walking the AAPEX show floor and potentially visiting SEMA, you will cover serious ground.
- The AAPEXedu sessions are excellent for shop owners and technicians. The business management and technology tracks are especially practical.
- Bring a laptop or tablet. Many exhibitors do live demos of diagnostic tools, shop management software, and parts catalogs.
- SEMA week is one of the biggest convention weeks in Las Vegas. Make hotel and dinner reservations well in advance.
After the Show
AAPEX After Dark — Nightlife & After Parties
AAPEX and SEMA week is legendary in Las Vegas. The automotive aftermarket crowd is one of the most enthusiastic groups that visits Vegas, and the Strip's nightlife scene rises to the occasion. After a day of product discovery and networking, treat your group to a world-class night out.
TAO Nightclub
Nightclub / Lounge
Inside The Venetian — walk from the AAPEX show floor to one of Vegas's most iconic nightclubs. Packed with auto industry professionals during SEMA/AAPEX week.
OMNIA Nightclub
Nightclub
A short walk south to Caesars Palace. The terrace and multi-room layout handle the massive auto industry crowd.
Marquee Nightclub
Nightclub
At The Cosmopolitan. Great energy and music programming. A solid alternative when other clubs are packed.
Spearmint Rhino
Gentlemen's Club
Free entry on our guest list. Convenient Strip location near the Venetian. A go-to for the automotive industry crowd.
AAPEX — FAQ
Where is AAPEX 2026?
AAPEX 2026 is held at the Venetian Expo (formerly Sands Expo), 201 Sands Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89169. The co-located SEMA Show is at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
What are the AAPEX 2026 dates?
AAPEX 2026 runs Tuesday, November 3 through Friday, November 6, 2026.
Do I need separate badges for AAPEX and SEMA?
Yes. AAPEX and SEMA are separate shows with separate registration. Badge pickup for AAPEX is at the Venetian Expo, and SEMA badges are at the LVCC.
Is there a shuttle between AAPEX and SEMA?
Yes. Free shuttle buses run between the Venetian Expo and the LVCC throughout the show days. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes.
Is AAPEX free to attend?
Exhibit hall passes are free with pre-registration for qualified automotive aftermarket professionals. AAPEXedu sessions may have separate fees.
What should I wear to AAPEX?
Business casual to casual. The auto aftermarket industry is practical — company polos, jeans, and comfortable shoes are standard.
How do I get to AAPEX from Strip hotels?
The Venetian Expo is right on the Strip. Most central Strip hotels are a 5–15 minute walk.
What is there to do during SEMA/AAPEX week?
SEMA week is one of the biggest party weeks in Vegas. The Strip's nightclubs, restaurants, and entertainment are all at full capacity. Sign up for a free guest list in advance.
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