For four days each spring, Arizona’s highways host a moving museum, one made of chrome, craftsmanship, and stories spanning generations.
The 33rd Annual Copperstate 1000, presented by the Men’s Arts Council, returns this April with more than 90 vintage cars rolling through 1,000 miles of scenic Arizona terrain. Organized to benefit the Phoenix Art Museum, the event is one of North America’s premier vintage car road rallies, featuring meticulously restored sports, racing, and touring automobiles from before the 1974 model year.
Each year brings a new route, but the spirit of the event stays the same. Drivers from across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Europe gather to share the road and a deep appreciation for the machines that shaped automotive history.
“We’ve run this event since 1990,” said Copperstate 1000 Chairman Doug Hodges. “Every year, we welcome longtime supporters and new faces alike. It’s part car show, part adventure, and part tradition.”
The journey takes participants through sweeping desert landscapes, lush valleys, and alpine elevations, showcasing the best of Arizona behind the wheel of the rarest cars in the world. Longtime title sponsor Bell Lexus North Scottsdale continues to support the rally, providing new Lexus vehicles for the course in case any classics run into mechanical issues.
“These cars come from around the globe and many carry multi-million dollar values,” said Men’s Arts Council President Joel Coen. “But what really makes this event special is the camaraderie. Whether you’re a die-hard car fan or just looking for something memorable to do with the family, you won’t want to miss it.”
Over the years, the Copperstate has featured legendary vehicles such as a 1952 Cunningham C2 Le Mans race car, a 1960 Aston Martin DB4, a 1965 Shelby Cobra, and a 1978 Porsche 911 Carrera RS. It’s a once-a-year chance to see history in motion, not behind ropes or glass but roaring down the highway.
For those who want a closer look before the engines fire up, the public is invited to the Copperstate 1000 Send-Off Event on Sunday, April 16, at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Starting at 7:30 a.m., the rally cars will line the outfield for viewing. Departure begins at 10 a.m., with each car announced as it rolls out for the journey ahead. In the stadium’s West lot, a local car show will run simultaneously, open to community car owners who want to display their rides and join the celebration. Coffee and donuts will be available for purchase, making it a relaxed morning for fans of all ages.
