Getting to the Circuit of The Americas for the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix can seem daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. With a little preparation and planning, you can have a smooth and enjoyable race day experience. Here are some tips on the best ways to get to COTA for the big F1 weekend.
Getting to Austin
First things first, you need to get yourself to Austin, Texas. If you’re flying in, book flights to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). It’s located just 8 miles southeast of downtown Austin. If you want to skip navigating the airport, consider booking a direct shuttle from AUS to your hotel. There are also taxis, Uber/Lyft rides, and rental cars readily available at the airport.
If you’re driving to Austin, get ready for a road trip! It’s about a 13 hour drive from Dallas, 3 hours from Houston, and 4.5 hours from San Antonio. Give yourself plenty of time to account for traffic and stops. Getting to Austin a day or two early is recommended so you’re not rushed on race day.
Finding Accommodations
Book accommodations early, as hotels fill up fast for the U.S. Grand Prix weekend. There are hotels clustered around the airport, downtown Austin, and near the track itself.
Some good options include:
- Downtown Austin – centrally located, walkable to restaurants and nightlife
- South Austin near the airport – affordable, closer to the track
- Near the track in Elroy – minimal travel time to COTA
Camping is also available at the track for the ultimate race experience. Or consider staying outside the city in San Marcos, Round Rock or Georgetown for more budget-friendly rates.
Getting to the Track
Circuit of The Americas is located about 15 miles southeast of downtown Austin. With traffic and road closures on race day, give yourself 2+ hours to get to the track.
Here are some ways to get there:
Shuttles
Book a roundtrip shuttle from downtown Austin hotels directly to COTA. Leave the driving to someone else so you can relax and get pumped up for race day! Prices range from about $20 – $60 per person.
Rideshares
Uber, Lyft and taxis can take you directly to the track. Prices surge significantly on race day though, so expect to pay 2-3X normal rates. Plan ahead and book early.
Public Transportation
Take the MetroRail’s Red Line from downtown Austin to the Kramer Station. From there, take the Circuit shuttle to the track. This is the most affordable option but takes the most time. Don’t rely on public transit for the return trip as lines will be long after the race.
Driving and Parking
You can drive yourself and park at the track if you don’t mind dealing with traffic. Be prepared for lots of closures on race day that can slow you down. Parking passes start around $200 for the weekend.
Getting Around the Track
COTA is over 1,500 acres, so getting between parking, the main grandstand, concessions, and track views requires lots of walking. Bring comfortable shoes! Standard parking can be up to a mile walk away.
Golf cart shuttles are available for $20 per person to take you around the expansive facility. There’s also indoor clubs, suites and hospitality areas you can access when you need a break from the elements.
What to Bring
Pack accordingly for a full day at the race track. Here are some essentials:
- Ear protection – it gets LOUD!
- Sunscreen – lots of open exposure and walking
- Hat, sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Baseball cap/visor
- Light, portable folding chair
- Race scanner if you want to listen to driver/team audio
Don’t forget your event tickets and parking passes too! Print them out or have them easily accessible on your phone.
Food and Drinks
Fuel up for race day! COTA has many concession stands located around the grounds. Prices are inflated (like $18 beers), so eat before to save money. If leaving the track, the closest restaurant area is Bee Cave Road by the Galleria.
You can bring small coolers with drinks and snacks. Keep in mind that bags larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″ are not permitted.
Hydration is key – bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the Texas heat. Water refill stations are located around the facility.
Race Day Tips
To ensure you have the best experience on F1 race day:
- Arrive early – gates open at 8:30am on Sunday
- Bring cash – on-site ATMs will have long lines
- Wear sunscreen and reapply often
- Charge your phone battery pack before coming
- Be prepared to walk, walk, walk!
Most importantly – soak in the incredible atmosphere and enjoy your Austin F1 experience!
Getting Home After the Race
Don’t wait until the checkered flag to start thinking about how you’ll get home. Traffic leaving COTA is extremely congested.
Shuttles and rideshares will have long lines. An hour or more wait is common. If you drove, expect up to 2-3 hours just to get out of the parking lot. Patience and water are key!
Public transit can also take extra time leaving the track due to rider volume. Give yourself several hours after the race concludes before flying out of Austin.
Staying overnight near the track and traveling home the next day is the best way to avoid the majority of post-race headaches. Celebrate the amazing F1 weekend you just experienced before returning to reality!
Conclusion
Attending the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas is an incredible sports experience every racing fan should have. With smart planning for transportation, tickets, parking and lodging, you’re set up for an epic Formula 1 weekend in Austin.
Safe travels and enjoy the thrilling speed, adrenaline and atmosphere of F1 live at COTA!