The Barrett-Jackson Car Auction is the best of the best when it comes to viewing (and maybe buying!) over-the-top luxury vehicles in Arizona. This year’s lineup, which is back this year from January 11-19, consists of nearly two thousand cars for sale and includes the collections of late Fast and Furious actor Paul Walker as well as two cars from former American Idol star Simon Cowell’s collection. 

The start-studded, nine-day event has taken place for nearly 50 years in North Scottsdale and draws everyone from car buyers and enthusiasts to families looking for a fun day out. To ensure you don’t miss a thing, we’ve rounded up a few tips to make it your best Barrett-Jackson experience yet. 

Prepare for more security than ever

This year is upping its safety precautions with a clear bag policy and a long list of prohibited items so make sure to leave your skateboard, cooler, video camera, drone and of course, your weapons at home. However, you are able to bring one sealed bottle of water into the venue to keep you hydrated during Arizona’s dry winter.

Check out the most anticipated cars 

Some of the most talked about cars for sale at this year’s event include Simon Cowell’s Bentley Azure Convertible and Ford Bronco Custom SUV as well as the late Paul Walker’s Ford Bronco SUV, custom Nissan 370Z, Ford Boss 302S and five BMW M3 E36s. However, more surprises could be in store — past cars sold at the auction include Chevrolet Camaros from Transformers movies, Justin Bieber’s Ferrari and Gary Sinise’s custom Jeep. Aside from celebrity cars, there’s a variety of vintage classics, hot rods and exotic vehicles.

Make the most out of all the activities 

If you’re not in the market to buy a car (and not up for the excitement of the auction) there are plenty of other activities to check out at Barrett-Jackson including an opening night gala, live music, thrill rides, educational panels, vendors and plenty of food. 

Buy ahead of time

Depending on the day you go and what kind of ticket you’re looking for, GA tickets can range from $21 to $80 for adults so make sure to check out your choices online before you to to get the best value (and a discount for buying ahead of time). If you’re taking the whole family, consider Family Value Day on Saturday, Jan. 11 when kids are free. 

Where to eat and stay in North Scottsdale

If you’re traveling to Barrett-Jackson, you can look forward to high-end dining and accommodations in North Scottsdale near the auction. Top hotels nearby include the Westin Kierland, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale a bit farther north. For post-auction meals, we recommend any local favorites in North Scottsdale’s Kierland or Scottsdale Quarter outdoors malls — like Greene House, North Italia, Dominick’s Steakhouse or Zin Burger. 

Westworld of Scottsdale: 16601 North Pima Rd,. Scottsdale, AZ; www.barrett-jackson.com; (480) 421-6694