2025 (NSCC) National Sports Collectors Convention Guide, Special Guests, and Details

National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC) 2025 Visitor Guide

The 45th National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC) will take place from July 30 to August 3, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. Known as the premier event for sports card and memorabilia collectors, this five-day convention offers an unparalleled experience with over 500,000 square feet of trading floor space, live autograph signings, auctions, and top card manufacturers and grading companies. This guide provides all the essential information to plan and maximize your visit to the NSCC 2025 in Chicago.

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Event Overview

• Dates: July 30 – August 3, 2025

• Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018

• Organizers: National Sports Collectors Convention, managed by TRISTAR Productions

• Expected Attendance: Over 100,000 attendees, based on the record-breaking 2023 event

• Features:

  • Over 600 dealer booths showcasing vintage and new collectibles

  • TRISTAR Autograph Pavilion with celebrity and athlete signings

  • National Trade Night (July 31 – August 2) with trading tables, live breaks, and brand experiences

  • Exclusive cards and wrapper redemption programs from Panini, Topps, and Upper Deck

  • Auctions and giveaways

Tickets and Admission

Ticket Options

• General Admission:

  • Price: $25 until June 30, 2025; $30 starting July 1, 2025 (online and onsite)

  • Details: Grants entry for one day (Wednesday Sneak Peek or Thursday–Sunday). Includes 60 minutes of early entry each day.

  • Note: Free admission for veterans, active-duty or retired military members, and eligible dependents with valid photo ID

• 5-Day Early Entry Pass:

  • Price: $159.99 (increases to $209.99 onsite)

  • Details: Entry for all five days with 60 minutes early admission daily.

• Basic VIP Package:

  • Price: $199.99 (increases to $209.99 onsite)

  • Details: Includes 5-day entry, early admission, access to 12 select VIP autograph signers, VIP gift package, and access to the VIP Lounge and Ludex VIP Lounge.

• All Access VIP Package:

  • Price: $339.99 onsite

  • Details: Includes all Basic VIP benefits, access to 18 autograph signers, and priority in autograph lines (behind Platinum Express Pass and Line Priority Pass holders).

Ticket Purchase

• On Sale: December 2, 2024 (Cyber Monday)

• Where to Buy: Online at www.nsccshow.com/tickets

• Note: All ticket sales are final; no refunds or exchanges permitted. Additional information will be emailed before the convention. Children 12 and under receive free admission to all events when accompanied by a paid VIP but do not receive VIP benefits.

Getting to the Convention

By Air

• Primary Airport: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), located ~3 miles from the convention center.

• Why: Easy access to Rosemont via taxi, rideshare, or public transit. Book flights early to save on costs.

• Airport Website: www.flychicago.com/ohare

By Public Transit

• Chicago "L" Blue Line: Direct access to Rosemont station, a short walk from the convention center.

• Buses: Routes 303, 330, 332, 811, and NCS Train serve the area.

• Cost: Affordable, with CTA fares around $2.50–$5 per ride.

By Car

• Parking: Ample onsite parking at the William St. Garage and East Parking Garage. Gated and well-lit, with accessible parking for those with handicapped placards or plates (first-come, first-served, payment required).

• Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are permitted for drop-offs and pick-ups.

Accommodations

• Official Housing Partner: Conference Housing offers exclusive discounted room rates for NSCC attendees. Book through their official service to avoid unauthorized third-party scams.

• Nearby Hotels:

  • Hilton Rosemont/Chicago O’Hare: Adjacent to the convention center.

  • Hyatt Regency O’Hare: Short walk or shuttle to the venue.

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport-Rosemont: Close proximity with dining options.

• Booking Tip: Reserve early (fall 2024) for the best rates. Check www.nsccshow.com for hotel information updates.

Preparing for the Convention

10 Essential Tips

1. Plan Your Visit Duration: Decide whether to attend one day or all five. Early ticket purchases save money and ensure access to VIP perks.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The 500,000 sq ft floor is a marathon. Concrete floors demand sturdy footwear.

3. Bring Food and Water: Long food lines can cut into browsing time. Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle.

4. Carry Supplies: Bring top loaders, penny sleeves, team bags, and a sturdy box to protect your purchases.

5. Set a Budget: With thousands of cards and memorabilia, it’s easy to overspend. Prioritize your targets.

6. Research Dealers: Use the interactive map by Ludex (qrco.de/thenationalmap) to save favorite vendors and plan your route.

7. Check Autograph Schedules: TRISTAR Autograph Pavilion features stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers on August 2. Review schedules at www.tristarproductions.com.

8. Attend Trade Nights: July 31–August 2 feature trading, live breaks, and giveaways. Free entry with a VIP, 5-Day, Dealer, or Show Admission wristband.

9. Know the Layout: The convention spans multiple halls, with new vendor tables in Hall G upper level for 2025.

10. Stay Connected: Sign up for the NSCC newsletter and follow on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and YouTube for updates.

What to Bring

• Essentials: Cash, credit cards, ID, and a backpack for purchases.

• Collectibles: Cards or items for trading, grading, or authentication.

• Comfort Items: Portable charger, comfortable clothing, and a small notebook for notes or vendor contacts.

• Health Precautions: Hand sanitizer and a mask (optional, based on personal preference).

Key Events and Highlights

TRISTAR Autograph Pavilion

• What: Meet sports legends and celebrities for autographs. Notable 2025 guest: Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers (August 2).

• Access: VIP packages include autograph tickets (12 for Basic, 18 for All Access). Platinum Express Pass and Line Priority Pass holders get priority.

• Details: Check www.tristarproductions.com for updated signer lists.

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Breakers Schedule

National Trade Night

• When: July 31–August 2, 2025

• Where: 50,000 sq ft of trading tables at the convention center

• Hosts:

  • July 31: Card Collector 2 Roadshow, PSA

  • August 1: BLEZ, PSA, Sports Cards Nonsense, Women in The Hobby

  • August 2: AA MINT, DAPPZ, MINT INK, PULLWAX

• Features: Trading, learning, live breaks, brand experiences, and exclusive giveaways.

Wrapper Redemption Programs

• Panini, Topps, Upper Deck: Purchase designated products from certified dealers to receive exclusive multi-sport card packs. Check checklists at www.cardboardconnection.com.

Auctions

• Expect live and online auctions featuring rare cards and memorabilia. Details will be announced closer to the event.

Venue Information

• Address: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018

• Accessibility:

  • Parking: Accessible spaces in the East Parking Lot (handicapped placard required).

  • Restrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms throughout.

  • Elevators: Full access to all levels.

  • Wheelchairs: Available for rent at $50/day (non-refundable, payable in advance).

  • Service Animals: Permitted if trained for assistance.

• Wi-Fi: Complimentary for light use in the lobby, pavilion, and lower-level concourse.

• Weapons Policy: Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited per Illinois concealed carry laws.

• Sales Tax: Illinois sales tax rate is 10.25%. Vendors receive tax forms in their packets.

Exploring Chicago and Rosemont

Dining

• Onsite: Food options are available, but lines can be long and prices high. Consider packing snacks or dining nearby to save time.

• Nearby Favorites:

  • Giordano’s: Famous deep-dish pizza, a must-try for visitors.

  • Gibson’s Steakhouse: Upscale dining for a memorable night out.

  • Ram Restaurant & Brewery: Casual dining with local brews, walking distance from the venue.

• Tip: Rosemont offers numerous restaurants along River Road and near O’Hare.

Attractions

• Rosemont:

  • Rivers Casino: Gaming and dining, a short drive away.

  • Fashion Outlets of Chicago: Shopping for collectors looking for a break.

• Downtown Chicago (~16 miles away):

  • The Art Institute of Chicago: World-class museum for art lovers.

  • Millennium Park: Home to the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”).

  • Navy Pier: Family-friendly with dining, rides, and lake views.

  • Source: www.choosechicago.com.

Transportation Tips

• Use the Blue Line for quick access to downtown Chicago.

• Rideshare apps are reliable for short trips around Rosemont.

• Rent a car if planning to explore beyond Rosemont, but parking downtown can be expensive.

Safety and Etiquette

• Respect Dealers and Attendees: Be courteous when negotiating or trading.

• Protect Your Valuables: Keep cards and cash secure in crowded areas.

• Follow Venue Rules: No weapons, adhere to ADA guidelines, and respect staff instructions.

• Stay Hydrated and Rested: The convention is physically demanding; pace yourself.

Additional Resources

• Official Website: www.nsccshow.com for tickets, maps, and updates.

• Social Media: Follow NSCC on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and YouTube for real-time announcements.

• Interactive Map: Download the Ludex app for the latest floor plan and vendor notes.

• Contact:

  • Dealer Inquiries: nsccdealerinfo@gmail.com or (732) 735-6863

  • Corporate Inquiries: nsccshow@gmail.com

  • Case Breaker Pavilion: david@rippingwax.com.

Final Tips

• Start Early: Arrive at opening for the best deals and autograph opportunities.

• Network: Connect with collectors, dealers, and brands during Trade Nights.

• Enjoy the Community: The NSCC is about more than collecting—it’s a celebration of the hobby’s vibrant community.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 45th National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago! Plan ahead, pack smart, and dive into the world’s biggest sports card show.