I went to it 2 years ago and was very impressed. It was very hot and I am thinking that October should be nicer.
You can see, touch and play with all the toys. For obvious safety reasons, no one was cutting grass so quality of cut is the only thing you won't be able to see.
I was a little frightened because at times it was like a lawn mower expressway in some of the areas with people flying around within inches of each other.
Sorry to drift. As stated, if you are looking to buy then that is the starting point. All of the major players are there in impressive form. The freebies kept my kids involved quite nicely. Pens, stickers, hats and goofy little toys.
Met Lawnsite faces at the Turf booth and they gave us Tee shirts too.
I'd say give it a try, if nothin else its a vacation.