DENVER -- Frozen credit markets and rising unemployment have led to a slowdown in auto sales, but haven't dampened enthusiasm for the Denver Auto Show.

"Last night, 500 people bought tickets to the show before the doors even opened," said Tim Jackson, president of the Metro Denver Automobile Dealers Association. "We're always amazed at the number of people who come to the auto show regardless of the economy."

Barbara Pudney produces auto shows all across the country. She told 7NEWS that auto shows draw three types of people: new car buyers, so called "gear heads," who are interested in new designs and technology, and entertainment seekers who come to sit in the cars and take pictures.

We asked several people on the 16th Street mall if they planned to attend the auto show.

Amanda Speaker said, "Not this year. I'm not in the market for a new car and don’t have the time."

Leo Whitely said he will be going, "Just to check out the new vehicles."

"It's not like I'm looking for a new vehicle or anything like that," said Geno Cherenzia. "But it's just fun to go, walk around and check it out."

Cherenzia said he's been to the auto show each of the last two years and is thinking about going again.

"I always get my picture taken in the Corvette," he said.

Pudney said there has been a drop-off in attendance at auto shows in other cities, but that that drop-off was mainly among those seeking entertainment. She said the "gear heads" go to the shows no matter what, because they want to see what's new.

While you may think there would be fewer new car buyers at the auto show in this economy, Pudney said, that's not necessarily the case.

"We've seen an increase in those people attending because they're recognizing the deals that are available," she said.

When asked if this year's show has changed, Jackson said, "The show has remained the same. There are more than 500 new cars spread over 400,000 square feet."

"We haven't changed the show itself," he told 7NEWS. "But we have changed the marketing."

He said, "We had a green car convoy that went to 12 different cities ahead of the auto show and that was to entice interest in new cars and local dealers, and to promote the Denver Auto Show. It worked out very well."

If those efforts translate into visitors, Tim Jackson will be a happy man.

The Auto show runs through Sunday at the Colorado Convention Center.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 7-12, and those 6 and under can get in free.