Are you asking about my drive or your own?
Honestly, I've never seen a larger/better show than the NARBC in Tinley Park that I did twice when I lived in Chicago. I've never done the Arlington show, but if it's half what the Chicago show was, it's worth the time. Since Illinois has more restrictive laws than Texas does, I expect to see a lot more variety down here than up there too.
It's always worth it to go see the highest of the high end ball pythons on display too, even if I can't afford them, it's something to work towards or drool over.
Best,
Paul