Minneapolis Boat Show 2026 - Your Complete Guide - Dates, Tickets, Exhibitors & What to Expect

Grab passes on the official website before you arrive to skip lines and lock in your preferred times. The mega venue sprawls across a large complex with dedicated zones for pontoons and catamarans, plus open spaces where you can compare features side by side.

Pack sturdy backpacks to carry brochures, swag, and quick notes as you navigate the marketplace; conversations with vendors spark clarity on upgrades, options, and the latest innovations in propulsion and hull design.

Expect a mix of consumer-focused events and conversations, with participants from major manufacturers and boutique shops offering hands-on demos. The area layout helps you move from one product cluster to another along the main aisles, where presented technology shows innovative ergonomics for family outings and best performance for enthusiasts.

Onsite demonstrations run throughout the days, with large displays and interactive zones; plan ahead to reserve sessions and ensure you don't miss popular launches. The layout includes a lund section that anchors the main corridor, along with a mega demo area and a dedicated marketplace lane for quick pickups.

Accessibility features include clear signage, helpful staff, and a straightforward registration flow on the website; both newcomers and seasoned buyers will find layouts that minimize back-and-forth.

For families and solo enthusiasts, the events spotlight practical gear and maintenance tips, with motor demonstrations and eco-friendly options; this same experience is designed to help you compare models and make confident decisions as a consumer.

Dont miss the practical tips on packing and pacing your day: aim to cover at least two major zones, plan breaks, and use a map to maximize your time along the aisles and in the vast halls.

Minneapolis Boat Show 2025: Your Complete Guide

Attend Friday morning to secure the best options and discounted entry before crowds swell. Create a prioritized checklist before you arrive to maximize every minute of the experience.

Plan your visit with this concise layout between two halls connected by a skyway, making the downtown riverfront hubs walkable and weather-protected.

• Access and timing: 9:30 a.m. opening, two halls linked by a skyway; arrive early to avoid lines and snag prime dock space.
• Transit and parking: park in riverfront garages, use light rail or bus routes, and follow downtown signs to docking zones.
• Key draws: catamarans, premier powerboating setups, and several hybrid and lightweight options.
• Brand and demos: david presented renegade line at the dock; visit the display for a live demo and hands-on test.
• Technology and gear: technology demonstrations with humminbird displays, fish finders, and GPS integration; explore the interfaces and run quick accuracy checks.
• Upgrade ideas: paint options for interiors, upgraded seating, decking materials, and dock lines that improve usability around the pier.
• Family services: childcare area on site; discounted entry for family groups; downtown garages offer validation.
• Events and learning: sessions on safety, maintenance, and powerboating techniques; visiting the stage area is recommended.
• Planning tips: Using several stations to compare hull forms; dont rush; judge less by surface looks and more by performance data.
• Industry and brands: industrys partners and puma brand booths bring further variety; explore options beyond the biggest names to find value that is better than several industrys offerings.
• Experience and togetherness: visit with a friend or mentor to compare notes and make decisions together without pressure.

Practical Details for Attendees

Arrive before doors open to secure parking and map a path to the Crestliner exhibit, then explore the exterior displays first to see catamarans and lighting setups while crowds are thinner.

Hours run daily from 9:00 to 18:00; last entry at 17:30; for weekend mornings, plan a 90-minute window to cover core zones.

Entry passes are available in advance; prices: adults 18, youths 8, family bundle 45; having printed or digital tickets speeds entry; open access areas include the marketplace floor and main demo stages.

Where to start: pick a route that pairs design studios with innovations and ready models; below is a suggested sequence: Crestliner exterior > catamarans > lighting demo > interactive displays by david; thats a solid approach to maximize exposure and take notes.

Accessibility and facilities: elevators on every level, seating clusters every 500 ft, restrooms on each level; water fountains and vending stations located near main corridors; planning for a weekend visit should include rest breaks and a plan B in case of crowding.

Items to bring: comfortable shoes, a portable charger, notepad; photography policy allows mobile shots but no flash at demos with active equipment; consider bringing a lightweight bag to hold brochures without obstructing passage; if you want to compare designs to world market trends, look for innovations from industrys leaders and ensure you are ready to capture takeaways quickly.

To navigate efficiently, scan the QR code labeled "quandt" located near the information desk; that provides a guided route through top priorities and can be used to track what you already covered.

Show Dates, Hours, and Location

Attend the earliest session to maximize access to popular demonstrations and avoid lines at entry. Open hours run 10:00–18:00 Fri–Sun, with last admission at 17:30. The venue sits at the Riverfront Exhibition Campus, Entrance A, a multi-level space with clear interior flow and an exterior display zone for live demos.

• Schedule and access: Fri–Sun, 10:00–18:00; last entry 17:30. Arrive 15–20 minutes early to secure a solid view of the main stage and pick up a floor map.
• Location and transit: Riverfront Exhibition Campus, Entrance A; on-site garage and nearby surface lots; signage to the lounge areas and demonstration pools; accessible routes from transit stops within a five-minute walk.
• Experience zones: fishing gear and watersports gear vendors, marine equipment brands, and docking tutorials; exterior demos showcase the newest vessels and vogue exterior finishes; family-friendly spaces with safe, open areas for kids. The experience is very practical, offering insights for both casual visitors and seasoned buyers.
• Lounge and furnishings: the central lounge features comfortable furnishings, charging stations, and a refresh bar; several seating clusters around the main promenade to rest and chat.
• Advice and planning: visit the plueddeman desk to create a profile and receive tailored recommendations; you’ll gain insights about sessions that fit your interests; thats how you maximize your time and avoid crowds.
• Discounts and what to bring: discounted admission bundles are available online and at the door; bring a reusable bag, water bottle, and a small tote for gear; check the event app for offers and live updates.
• Nearby options: several hotels, eateries, and coffee shops within a short walk; plan to visit after your session to extend your experience around the campus.
• Demos: fishing-related gear in action; open-water technique snippets from pros; a quick boarding demo at the dock area to illustrate safe handling; several fish-friendly features are demonstrated.
• History and profile: For years, visitors have relied on this hub to plan efficient visits and gather practical insights; create your profile and continue exploring the offerings in future trips.

Ticket Types, Prices, and Purchase Options

General Admission – Open access to the market floor with thousands of components, highlighting the latest series of sailboat designs and cruiser model variants. The focus is hands-on evaluation of engines and motor gear, with interactive demos along the display aisles. Online pre-sale discounted entry is 9; on-site price is 13. Youth (6–12) 4; under-6 free.

Weekend Pass & Premium Access – For the most value, this pass covers Fri–Sun, with access to seminars and close-up looks at mega cruisers and motor displays. Online price: 25; on-site: 30. VIP add-on for 75 includes early entry, lounge access, and a chance to meet designers such as David in exclusive sessions for them. Theyre designed to streamline the experience, along with curated tours of the display and furnishings.

Youth, Student, and Military Deals – Youth (6–12): 4; Student discounts with valid ID: 7; Military with ID: 6. Family bundle: four passes for 40. Most offers require online validation; theyre common and time-limited to encourage early purchase.

Group, Corporate, and Nearby Partner Offers – For clubs and teams of 10+, save 15% with group pricing; 25+ attendees save 20%. Nearby hotels and travel partners provide package deals with admission included, anywhere within walking distance. Expect a mix of sea-doo displays and other watercraft brands, ensuring a practical comparison that takes place on the market floor.

Purchase Routes – Buy online securely via the official portal; mobile wallet options accepted; print-at-home passes or digital passes on your device. On-site desk accepts cash, cards, and contactless payment. For phone orders, call the dedicated line. To ensure the best value, buy online at least a week ahead and watch for friday schedule updates and limited-time offers.

Practical Tips – Arrive early to beat lines, study the map, and visit display zones along aisles. The area hosts thousands of gear suppliers and furnishings, including engine bays and sea-doo demonstrations. The most popular sessions tend to fill quickly; plan your route to maximize time near the stern of big cruisers and along the sailboat docks.

Exhibitors by Category: Boats, Gear, and Services to See

Begin with a focused 90-minute loop through three zones to gain a complete package of options: boats, gear, and services, then revisit your top two favorites. In minneapolis, the hall layout groups docks by category, making it easy to map your visit with nearby stops.

Boats area spotlight sailboats and aluminum craft from yar-craft, avalon, and private-label lines. Touch the hulls, compare cockpit layouts, and note model-year updates that streamline docking and handling. Most displays offer hands-on demos and sign-up for private test sails that require advance coordination. These exhibitors deliver an accessible, practical experience and usually provide clear price ranges to help you plan before you leave the place.

Gear exhibitors cover safety gear, electronics, and outdoor apparel. Look for navigation electronics, life jackets, dry bags, and puma-branded performance gear. Several booths let you test gear in mock conditions, so you can see how a chartplotter or a waterproof bag performs in real life. These vendors contribute to the local industrys and help you assemble a versatile, ready-to-use kit.

Services options include maintenance, storage, winterization, and on-site consults. Local specialists offer hull care, upholstery refresh, and fleet-management advice. If you’re visiting with family, childcare resources or quiet lounges appear in nearby corners, giving you a private place to regroup and compare notes before moving on. Most services teams provide scheduling tips and after-visit follow-up options to keep your plans on track.

Tips: map your path with the most nearby booths, ask about bundled offers, and verify what’s included in each package so you don’t miss key items like inspections or warranties. For those who want the best overall experience, start with the boats and gear zones then circle back to services for final checks and financing options.

Live Demos, Seminars, and Scheduling Tips

Reserve a two-hour block for live demos and concise seminars using the official scheduling tool; this focused approach keeps planning practical and enjoyable, including hands-on sessions about bennington models and other luxury configurations. For boarding, download the app and sync the profile there to map the route and avoid backtracking.

Prioritize nmma-backed demonstrations that highlight significant differences between entry-level and premium layouts, and use the marketplace to compare options side by side. Visiting puma and other brands on the floor helps you calibrate expectations against real-world performance and comfort, ensuring needs are met.

Timing strategy: schedule thurssat slots early in the day when interest remains high, then switch to shorter talks during mid-afternoon slumps. Time windows range from 20- to 45-minute sessions to ensure you absorb concepts without overload. Place key demos near the main aisles to overlook congestion, and stay flexible to adapt. For these sessions, plan 3–4 options to maximize variety.

Practical tips: bring a compact notebook, jot down the differences you care about, and use a simple scoring system to rank models–bennington, luxury lines, and puma variants. Tailored notes linked to a profile help you stay focused and build a shortlist for the marketplace, where there are opportunities in the world of marine leisure, including anglers.

After attending, review notes with a clear action plan: list the top three models, note any needs, and set follow-ups with participating vendors. The excitement around new technology and fishing-friendly features for anglers informs decisions. If you went in with a broad set of goals, you’ll finish with a sharper profile and a ready-to-order shortlist from the marketplace.