RetroAuto is the Pebble Beach Concours doing retail. Held at the Monterey Conference Center in the opening days of the week, it gathers luxury and automotive brands, artists, jewelers and memorabilia dealers under one roof, an indoor companion to the Sunday lawn that most visitors never make time for.
The mix leans upscale, watches and art and limited pieces alongside the models and literature, and it doubles as a place to pick up official Concours merchandise and event information before the crowds peak. It is calmer than the shows outside, with room to actually talk to the makers and dealers.
Because it runs early and downtown, it pairs well with a first walk around Monterey before the week goes full speed. Admission is modest, the setting is indoors and climate controlled, and it is an easy stop for anyone easing into the ten days rather than diving straight at the fairways.
Downtown Monterey parking is still reasonable this early in the week, which is another reason to catch it before the auctions and the weekend arrive.
It is also one of the few Car Week stops that stays comfortable indoors all day, which makes it an easy add for anyone building a schedule around the outdoor shows.
For where it sits at the front of the schedule, see the Car Week hub, and check the events calendar for opening-weekend timing.