MINI Takes the States 2016 is just a few weeks away. This event, which is held every two years, attracts MINI enthusiasts from all around the country -- and sometimes, from around the world too.

For those who are new to the MINI community, here is a little refresher: This is the 10th anniversary of MINI’s signature event, a group tour in which thousands of current and aspiring MINI owners and company employees take a two-week road trip to explore the open roads of America.

In 2014, nearly 500 MINIs journeyed from San Francisco, California to Boston, Massachusetts – an astonishing 5,142 miles – and there were almost 4,000 total participants in all the related events. In fact, a pair of particularly dedicated MINI buffs brought their vehicle all the way from Germany to join in. A portion of the event’s proceeds benefited the Best Friends Animal Society, and passionate MINI aficionados are anxiously awaiting the announcement of 2016’s charity partner.

How does MINI describe the trip?

“MINI Takes the States is one of the most anticipated experiences that the MINI community takes part in every other year," says David Duncan, Vice President of MINI in the Americas. "Owning a MINI is about being a part of a community, and never is that more evident than during MINI Takes the States. We can’t wait to hit the road this summer!”

Cross-Country MINI Thrills

Participants report that this annual parade is the highlight of their year because they'll see new places and form new friendships that last long after the trip is over. Folks who can’t make the two-week odyssey can still enjoy the adventure. The route and schedule information below shows where and when groups will be in town. All MINIs and MINI-lovers are welcome to join in any of the city-specific rallies.

Over the course of this trip, MINI looks back on its heritage and brings new believers into the fold with a series of stops at professional racetracks. After all, MINI has a rich history in motor sports, and nothing is more convincing than seeing these cars in action. Better still, at some venues there will be special opportunities for thrilling driving experiences.

One of the most anticipated portions of the trek takes place during the drive between Detroit and St. Ignace in Michigan. The Mackinac Bridge connects these two cities, and it's one of the longest suspension bridges in the country. Participation in MINI on the Mack is a rite of passage for MINI devotees, and the location even hosted a 2015 attempt to break the world record for the longest MINI parade. Earlier in 2009, they set a record of throwing an amazing 1,450-MINI parade around Crystal Palace Park in the United Kingdom's Crystal Palace.

MINI Takes the States 2016: Cities and Dates

Described by some as “legendary,” MINI Takes the States 2016 starts on July 9 at Road Atlanta, and the route wraps up on July 23 at Palm Springs, California’s Thermal Club. Over the course of two weeks, the MINI parade will wrap around the country, going up the East Coast, through the Northwest and down through the Rocky Mountains to sunny California. That’s more than 4,000 miles of MINI-style fun.

City-specific dates are as follows:

  • Atlanta, Ga. – July 9
  • Charlotte, N.C. – July 9 and July 10
  • Richmond, Va. – July 10 and July 11
  • Baltimore, Md. – July 11 and July 12
  • Pittsburgh, Pa. – July 12 and July 13
  • Detroit, Mich. – July 13 and July 14
  • St. Ignace, Mich. – July 14 and July 15
  • Green Bay, Wis. – July 15 and July 16
  • Minneapolis, Minn. – July 16 and July 17
  • Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 17 and July 18
  • Sturgis, S.D. – July 18 and July 19
  • Cheyenne, Wyo. – July 19 and July 20
  • Park City, Utah – July 20 and July 21
  • Las Vegas, Nev. – July 21 and July 22
  • Palm Springs, Calif. – July 22 and July 23

More About MINIs

We've got more good news: Those looking to get into their first MINI or upgrade their current model before MINI Takes the States 2016 have more options than ever. Since the 2002 introduction of just two models, the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S Hardtop, the line has expanded to six distinctive models and eight total options:

  • Hardtop 2-Door
  • Convertible 2-Door
  • Hardtop 4-Door
  • Paceman
  • Countryman
  • Coupe
  • Clubman
  • Roadster

These quality vehicles are winners of a prestigious variety of awards, including four consecutive years as J.D. Power’s "Highest in Sales Satisfaction Among Mass Market Brands." The MINI Countryman was an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick" for five consecutive years, and MINI was the 2015 winner of the Automotive Science Group’s "Best Social Performance" and "Best All-Around Performance" awards.

3Birds Template is proud to offer an extensive selection of MINIs with dedicated MINI experts to assist you. Visit 3Birds Template to find your first MINI or bring your current MINI in to explore options for upgrading. We will make sure you are ready for MINI Takes the States 2016.

Image: MINI