MintX Midwest Card Expo

Name: MintX Midwest Card Expo
Location: Lake County Fairgrounds

Show Overview

The MintX Midwest Card Expo at Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, Illinois, is one of the premier sports card shows in the Midwest. With approximately 500 dealer tables, this show draws collectors from across Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, and the broader Midwest region for a large-format card show experience.

Located just north of Chicago, the MintX Midwest Expo benefits from being in one of the country's most passionate sports markets. Chicago collectors are some of the most dedicated in the hobby, with deep demand for Bulls, Bears, Cubs, White Sox, and Blackhawks cards. This energy translates into an incredibly active show floor with serious buyers and sellers.

The Lake County Fairgrounds venue offers ample space for the show's large dealer count, with free parking and an easy-to-navigate layout. For Midwest collectors who may not travel to The National or East Coast shows, MintX delivers a comparable experience in their backyard.

Venue & Location Guide

Venue

Lake County Fairgrounds

1060 E Peterson Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030

Parking

Free parking is available at the fairgrounds with plenty of space. The grounds are flat and easy to navigate. Accessible parking is available near the main entrance.

Nearest Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) — 45 minutes. Chicago Midway (MDW) — about 60 minutes.

Nearby Hotels

Hampton Inn Gurnee
Best Western Gurnee Hotel & Suites
Fairfield Inn & Suites Gurnee
Country Inn & Suites Grayslake

Nearby Restaurants

Grayslake Family Restaurant (classic diner)
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria (legendary Chicago deep dish, Libertyville)
Portillo's (Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef, Gurnee)
Ram Restaurant & Brewery (Gurnee)

First-Timer Tips

1

Chicago-area collectors are serious buyers — bring your best inventory if you are a dealer

2

Michael Jordan and Bulls cards are always in high demand at Midwest shows

3

The fairgrounds layout is spacious — take time to walk every aisle, deals hide in the back rows

4

If visiting from out of state, combine the trip with a visit to Six Flags Great America in Gurnee (10 minutes away)

5

Midwest weather is unpredictable — check the forecast and dress in layers for spring and fall shows

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the MintX Midwest Card Expo?

The show features approximately 500 dealer tables at the Lake County Fairgrounds, making it one of the largest card shows in the Midwest.

Is the show only for sports cards?

No — while sports cards are the primary focus, the show also features Pokemon, Magic: The Gathering, and other TCG dealers.

How far is the show from downtown Chicago?

Grayslake is about 45 miles north of downtown Chicago, roughly a 50-60 minute drive depending on traffic. It is accessible via I-94 and Route 120.

Is parking free at the MintX Midwest Expo?

Yes — parking is free at the Lake County Fairgrounds with ample space available.

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