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What would the ultimate car venue look like? Affordable restaurant, big patio overlooking the show, bright lights and high shade trees, grassy areas, easy access, super friendly staff that all loves cars and appreciates our business.
Over the last 20 years I've seen 3 serious attempts in the Orlando area and all have failed miserably. The first had the restoration / dealer venue in mind. They had a fancy rendering board to entice investors and were playing to the exotic big boys. When that failed, they open a shop on a busy road with lots of parking. We had a few great shows and then it financially got into trouble. Closed up & became apartments.
Second was built for cars in mind, BBQ place, fine dining area, and an outdoor music stage with a large bar. Again, great start but then the owner & co-owner were in court before it opened and the writing was on the wall. After a few short years, it closed and now leveled. Shame, it was a beautiful venue.
Third was built for cars & bikes. I believed in it so much that I got involved and handled the car shows. It started as a downtown eyesore and was transformed into something great. We had packed shows weekly for the first several months, but problems persisted and the visionaries were all gone within six months. Investors took over and that was the end. Cars were not important, neither was service. They last about 6 years, which surprised me, but they too are gone. Soon to be leveled for more apartments.
If only I could win a zillion dollars, I'd know what to do.....however I'm quite content with my simple life on my little place in the woods...better for my sanity.
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