Overview

Fast facts

Year Opened: 2012

Capacity: 120000

City / State: Austin / Texas

Biggest Event: United States Grand Prix

All time Champion: Lewis Hamilton

Recent Winner: Valtteri Bottas

Known for: Being the first circuit in the United States to be purpose-built for Formula One.

Last 5 Winners

2019

Valtteri Bottas from Finland takes the turn to represent his country in the 2019 US Grand Prix with a time of 1:33:55.653. He was able to beat Lewis Hamilton from England and Max Verstappen from the Netherlands.

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2018

Kimi Räikkönen from Finland ended Lewis Hamiltons win streak when he won the 2018 US Grand Prix with a time of 1:34:18.643. He was able to beat M. Verstappen from the Netherlands who got 2nd place and Lewis Hamilton from England who now ended up in 3rd.

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2017

Lewis Hamilton from England, once again, dominated the US Grand Prix in 2017 with a time of 1:33:50.991. He was able to beat Sebastian Vettel from Germany who got 2nd place, and Kimi Räikkönen from Finland who ended up in 3rd.

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2016

Lewis Hamilton from England, for the 3rd year in a row, won the 2016 United States Grand Prix with a time of 1:38:12.618. He was able to beat Nico Rosberg from Germany who got 2nd place, and Daniel Ricciardo from Australia who ended up in 3rd.

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2015

Lewis Hamilton from England, for the 2nd year in a row, won the 2015 United States Grand Prix with a time of 1:50:52.703. He was able to beat Nico Rosberg from Germany who got 2nd place, and Sebastian Vettel from Germany who ended up in 3rd.

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Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

The Circuit of the Americas’ premier race is the Formula One United States Grand Prix, and as a result, you’ll find a much different atmosphere at the pregame bashes then you would at a NASCAR race. You find refined and glitzy parties around race weekend in addition to more traditional tailgating at the Circuit of Americas.

Some of the biggest parties here include Blu at the W and My Yacht Club where you’ll find lots of celebrities and other well-known people. If you’re looking to hob nob, then you can’t beat attending one of the fancier soirees surrounding the United State Grand Prix.

Those of you who are looking for some more traditional tailgating will still be in luck as there is plenty of camping and tailgating allowed near the racetrack. The Circuit of Americas features a couple of types of camping including a premium tailgating experience that grants you access to a pool and a viewing deck.

One thing to keep in mind when tailgating before the United States Grand Prix is the fact that all the parking around the Circuit of Americas requires parking permits. Make sure to get a parking pass for each day you’re attending the event as you wouldn’t want your car to get towed.

Finally, the United States Grand Prix like most major races features a pre-race concert the night before the race. The concert usually features some of the most popular acts in the music industry making it a can’t miss part of any Grand Prix.

There is a lot of partying to be had when attending the United States Grand Prix or any other race at the Circuit of the Americas, so start planning your trip today.

Traditions

United States Grand Prix Pre-Race Concert

Those of you who are attending the United States Grand Prix won’t want to miss the pre-race concert. The concert takes place the night before the race and features some of the world’s most popular artists making it a great time whether you’re a racing fan or not.

Formula One Watch Parties

All throughout the Formula One Season, the Circuit of the Americas offers free watch parties at the Velocity Lounge. Even if you can’t see the United States Grand Prix live, you can still take in Formula One action at the Circuit of the Americas during your trip to Austin.

Where to tailgate

Stadium Guide

In Game

The Circuit of the Americas is an excellent road trip destination for any Formula One fan. Not only is the track the site of the annual United States Grand Prix it also is home to several great driving experiences. The COTA Driving Experience Program is a new offering and gives you the opportunity to step behind the wheel of a variety of different cars. The Circuit of the Americas also allows fans to enjoy a variety of watch parties at the track throughout the Formula One season as well making it a great destination for any Formula One fan.

That said nothing beats attending the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas. The United States Grand Prix is an American Formula One fan’s best opportunity to see an F1 race live and as a result fans from all over the country come to Austin for the race. At the race, you’ll meet lots of F1 fans, and almost all of them are happy to start up a conversation and talk racing with you.

In addition to the opportunity to meet fellow F1 fans and see F1 racing live, the United States Grand Prix also offers several ways for you to enjoy the race. There are several VIP Hospitality packages that you offer premium experiences and the different grandstand locations each offer you a unique view of the race. Just about each turn has a grandstand meaning that you can come back year after year and find a new way to watch the race each time. The Turn 5, 4, and 3 grandstands are said to have the best view of the track. However, those of you who want a good view of the finish line and pit stops will want to get tickets in the Main Grandstand.

Another excellent time to take in a race at the Circuit of the Americas is Lone Star Le Mans. Lone Star Le Mans is a can’t-miss-race for any endurance racing fan and even offers the fans the opportunity to take part in a parade lap.

Lastly, the Circuit of the Americas is home to the Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Americas, so if you’re into motorcycle racing, then there is a race held here for you as well.

The Circuit of the Americas is a true racing heaven for Formula One and MotoGP racing fans, so get your tickets and enjoy the show when your favorite racing circuit comes to town.

Things to check out

Grand Plaza

During your trip to the Circuit of the Americas take some time to visit the Grand Plaza. The Grand Plaza features a reflection pool, concession stands, retail and much more.

Austin360 Amphitheater

The Austin360 Amphitheater can hold up to 14,000 and has hosted performances by several major artists over the years. The facility is a great place to catch a concert, so get tickets to a show during your visit to the Circuit of the Americas.

Observation Tower

The Observation Tower is the signature landmark of the Circuit of the Americas and is a must-see for any Formula One fan. The observation deck is open to the public and offers an incredible view of the track making it a can’t miss for anyone taking in a race at the Circuit of the Americas.

COTA Driving Experience Program

The new COTA Driving Experience Program is an excellent way for you to get behind the wheel of a wide selection of cars. The program offers several driving experiences including the Audi Driving Experience, Formula Americas Experience, and Karting Experience. The wide array of driving experiences means there is one for you no matter what your level of driving experience or interest.

Venue Tours

Tours of the Circuit of the Americas take place on Saturdays and Sundays between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm and are your opportunity to see behind the scenes. The tours showcase the track, Austin360 Amphitheater, and Pit and Paddock Building making them a must-see for any diehard racing fan.

VIP Hospitality Packages

The United States Grand Prix offers several VIP Hospitality Packages including the COTA Club, Turn 13 Trackside Suites, and Main Grandstand Suites. If you’re looking to experience the United States Grand Prix in style, then these packages are right up your alley.

Car Corrals

Car Corrals are the best way for you to experience Lone Star Le Mans. The Car Corrals provide you with parking with your favorite manufacturer, exclusive Circuits of the Americas merchandise, and a parade lap.

Le Mans Spirit Packages

The Le Mans Spirit Package is the most comfortable way to take in Lone Star Le Mans. The package provides you with breakfast and lunch buffets as well as afternoon tea and will put you in the best seats in the house above pit lane.

Bars & Restaurants

  1. Mariana’s Kitchen

    Marianas Kitchen Salad

    A local favorite when it comes to Mexican dishes.

    5510 S IH 35 Frontage Rd #410, Austin, TX 78745, USA

    512-382-2105

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  2. Torchy’s Tacos

    Torchys Tacos Tacos

    Local chain serving Mexican-street-food-style tacos in inventive varieties, including for breakfast.

    1822 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, USA

    512-366-0537

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  3. Magnolia Cafe

    Magnolia Cafe Pasta

    Comfy all-hours local eatery for breakfast, Tex-Mex & vegetarian options.

    1920 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, USA

    512-445-0000

    Bar website

    cafe - $

  4. Trudy’s South Star

    Trudy's South Star Nachos

    Local Tex-Mex favorite serving standards & margaritas, with popular happy hour & weekend brunch.

    901 Little Texas Ln, Austin, TX 78745, USA

    512-326-9899

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. Curra’s Grill

    Curra's Grill Ceviche

    Local go-to adorned with colorful art, supplying standard Mexican eats & popular avocado margaritas.

    614 E Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78704, USA

    512-444-0012

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  6. Trudy’s Texas Star Restaurant and Bar

    Trudys

    Local Tex-Mex favorite serving standards & margaritas, with popular happy hour & weekend brunch.

    409 W 30th St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-454-1474

    Bar website

    american - mexican - $$

  7. The Aquarium

    Aquarium

    Beer pong & drink specials draw boisterous crowds to this bi-level bar & its fish-tank decor.

    403 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

    512-499-8003

    Bar website

    american - $

  8. Donn’s Depot

    Chips

    Piano bar with live music, 2 dance floors & a diverse crowd, set in old rail cars & a former depot.

    1600 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703, USA

    512-478-0336

    Bar website

    american - $

  9. Crown and Anchor Pub

    Crown and Anchor burger

    Proudly serving award winning beer and food in Austin, TX for over 25 years!

    2911 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-322-9168

    Bar website

    american - $

  10. The Dogwood

    Dogwood bar

    The Dogwood is a "homegrown" concept with a small touch of southern hospitality.

    715 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

    512-531-9062

    Bar website

    american - $$

  11. Cain & Abel’s

    Abels

    Enjoy a plethora of beer on tap and a full bar while hanging out with friends at the hottest restaurant patio in West Campus. Cain and Abel’s serves American food with a Texas Drawl!

    2313 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-476-3201

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $$

  12. Cheer’s Shot Bar

    Cheers shot bar beer

    Bartenders prepare inventive shots in this lively hangout with an upstair patio & a party vibe.

    416 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701, USA

    512-499-0093

    Bar website

    american - $

  13. Hole In The Wall

    Hole In the Wall

    The Hole in the Wall is one of Austin’s most legendary venues for all the right reasons.

    2538 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-472-5599

    Bar website

    american - $

  14. Posse East

    Cotton Eyed Joe

    Spirited sports bar with open-mike nights, a hearty pub-grub menu & flat-screens galore.

    2900 Duval St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-477-2111

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $

  15. Cactus Café

    beer

    The Cactus Cafe is Austin's premier listening room est. in 1979 offering the finest of local, national and international music nightly!

    2247 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78712, USA

    512-475-6515

    Bar website

    american - $$

  16. Pinthouse Pizza

    Pinthouse Pizza

    British-pub-inspired spot with elaborate pizzas, plus a house brewery specializing in hoppy beers

    4729 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756, USA

    512-436-9605

    Bar website

    european - pizza - $

  17. Hopdoddy Burger Bar

    Hopdoddy Burger Bar

    Welcome to Hopdoddy, where we have a passion to bring you burgers made with fresh, all-natural ingredients prepared by hand.

    1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, USA

    512-243-7505

    Bar website

    american - $

  18. Franklin Barbecue

    Franklin Barbecue

    Long lines form early for brisket, pulled pork & other smoked meats at this lunch-only spot.

    900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702, USA

    512-653-1187

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  19. Kerbey Lane Cafe

    Kerbey Lane Cafe

    They’ve always sought to serve good, homemade quality food that is local, healthy and affordable while providing a welcoming and memorable experience to all who come through our doors.

    2606 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-477-5717

    Bar website

    cafe - $

  20. Madam Mam’s Noodles

    Madam Mams

    Thai restaurant group and the destination for THAI FOOD aficionados craving the freshest, finest, and most authentic Thai cuisine.

    510 W 26th St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-371-9930

    Bar website

    asian - $

  21. Sushi Niichi

    Sushi Niichi

    Traditional sushi bar & restaurant near campus featuring popular happy-hour specials.

    705 W 24th St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-469-0499

    Bar website

    asian - $$

  22. Pluckers Wing Bar

    Pluckers

    Sports bar & grill offering wings, burgers & more, plus trivia & bingo nights.

    2222 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705, USA

    512-236-9110

    Bar website

    american - $$