How to Make the Most of Your Trip to the United States Grand Prix

The day has finally come: It is officially the United States Grand Prix weekend. As a former resident of Austin, TX, I’ve made this event a yearly endeavor, and I like to think that I’ve really figured out the best way to attend the race. So, if you’ve got tickets and are heading to the track for the first time — or if you’re a seasoned veteran looking to maximize your trip — then I’m here for you.

This guide will give you tips to navigating both the circuit and the city of Austin, so buckle up.

Read more

• A New 'Twister' is in the Works, But the Original is Still the Greatest Car Commercial of all Time

• These are the Coolest Stock Rear Wings of All Time

Get There Early

You’ve probably heard some horror stories about parking at COTA. Those stories are largely true; you’ll likely spend a fair amount of time in parking lots. I highly recommend getting to the track early, not just because parking can take a hot second, but because most of the parking lots for fans require a bit of a walk to get to the entrance. There are shuttles and ADA accessible golf carts, but most of you will be walking. You’ll want the time.

This especially goes for those of you in General Admission. Last year, GA was packed, and the prime viewing areas filled up early. If you’re hoping for a great view from Turn 1, you’re going to need to stake your claim as soon as gates open — and yes, folks will be running for spots.

Make Friends With the Schedule

Make sure you have the weekend schedule handy. I like to copy mine into my Notes app on my phone, then add in any extra events that are also taking place at the track or elsewhere. This will let you know when to plan to get to the track.

Unfortunately, there aren’t official autograph sessions anymore — but drivers will occasionally make appearances around Austin or even at certain merchandise stands

Walk the Track at Least Once

I don’t care if you’ve been to COTA before or if it’s your first time: Try walking the entire track. There are pedestrian walkways around the whole venue, and it can be a ton of fun to check out the track from totally different vantage points.

My personal tip: Use a Free Practice session to walk from Turn 3 down to Turn 11. Seeing F1 cars power through the Esses is amazing, as is watching the hard braking and rapid acceleration at the hairpin.

Save your trek down the back stretch for an off-time; you’re not going to see much, though it is worth it to check out the RVs of the ultra-rich folks who get trackside camping for F1. You also won’t see much through the “stadium section,” or Turns 12 through 15, due to the positioning of the grandstands — or at Turn 20, since there are banners blocking your view.

This is also a great idea for anyone in GA. Most GA viewers stick to the same places — Turn 1, the Esses, or Turns 17/18/19 — but you’ll be able to scope out some hidden gems if you’re willing to walk.

Pack the Essentials

Listen. I know this sounds self-explanatory, but I cannot stress it enough. Pack the essentials. That means water (a sealed plastic bottle or an empty reusable bottle), sunscreen, and comfy shoes that you’ve amply broken in and also don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Make sure you check out the venue policies on COTA’s website, too. This will let you know what you can and cannot bring into the venue. The big things to note are:

• Bags cannot exceed 12x12x20 inches

• Camelback bags must be empty when you reach the track

• No coolers

• You can bring personal cameras, but don’t bring telephoto lenses or any tripods

I also highly recommend bringing the following:

• Blankets and/or portable, collapsible chairs (especially if you’re in General Admission)

• Small umbrellas (truly a lifesaver when it comes to keeping the sun off you)

There are four water stations available at the track at Turn 1, Turn 4/5, the Grand Plaza, and in the Main Grandstand. If you’re out in Turn 12, I recommend filling up before you walk out that way!

Eat Your Way Through Austin Without Leaving the Track

COTA has released the ultimate “foodie guide” of the track, and I can guarantee that this is one of the most gourmand-friendly races you’ll go to. Local Austin food joints set up shop at the track for F1 with a small menu of incredible foods. This year, there will be BBQ, shawarma, bao, hibachi, nachos, pie, ice cream, and plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

COTA is generally pretty hesitant about letting people bring in their own food, so unless you’re a pro at hiding your snacks (maybe by wrapping them up in the blanket you’ll pack), you will likely need to buy some sustenance at the track.

Poop in Peace

There are permanent bathroom facilities in the main plaza and at Turn 1. They are air conditioned. They have sinks and toilets with running water. You’re welcome.

Sorry, No Karting

If you were hoping to take advantage of COTA’s ultra-fun karting facility, you’ll be out of luck. The track becomes an extra parking lot for the F1 weekend — which is unfortunate, because the karting circuit would undoubtedly make bank. You’ll have to get your thrills at the other amusement park rides around the track.

Tower Tour