Overview

There's a unique hum to Austin during the U.S. Grand Prix weekend, a tangible shift in the city's rhythm. It starts subtly—a flash of papaya orange or Scuderia red on a downtown street corner—and builds into a crescendo. It's a city that, for one vibrant October weekend, thrums with a different kind of energy: a masterful fusion of roaring V6 hybrid engines, electric guitar riffs from a main-stage headliner, and the collective, roaring cheer of a hundred thousand fans under the vast Texas sky.

For many of us, Formula 1 was our gateway to a new world. Whether you came for the high-stakes drama of Drive to Survive or the pure, athletic genius on display, you discovered a universe of passion, politics, and unbelievable human achievement. But translating that passion into an in-person experience? That’s a whole different level of logistics and, let's be honest, a little bit of intimidation.

What do you wear to a place that’s part music festival, part world-class sporting event? Where are the best places to actually see the overtakes, not just the procession? How do you possibly navigate the city when the entire F1 circus, with all its glamour and chaos, is in town? That's precisely why we created this guide.

We’ve decoded the best spots to watch the action at the Circuit of The Americas, curated a practical style guide for looking chic while staying comfortable in the Texas heat, and scouted the city's most exciting spots for a celebratory cocktail or a well-deserved recovery brunch.

This is your strategic briefing. A plan designed to place you in the right spot at the right time, looking and feeling your best. Consider this your all-access pass to a flawless race weekend. Your only job now is to enjoy the ride.

Where to Stay

Choosing where you stay is about more than a place to sleep—it’s about defining the entire vibe of your race weekend. We’ve curated the city’s best neighbourhoods and hotels to serve as your perfect home base.

After the Chequered Flag

The energy of a Grand Prix doesn't simply vanish when you leave the circuit gates. It follows you, a palpable buzz that spills into the city streets. In Austin, the post-race celebration is an event in itself, a city-wide immersion into some of America's best food, music, and nightlife. The track may be the main event, but Austin's cultural scene is the unmissable headliner.

Where to Eat

THE CHURCH OF BBQ
You haven't truly been to Texas until you've worshiped at the altar of slow-smoked brisket. While Franklin Barbecue is world-famous for a reason, its hours-long queue can be a pilgrimage of its own. For an equally transcendent experience without the epic wait, make your way to Terry Black's BBQ. The classic Texas trinity—brisket, pork ribs, and sausage—is executed to smoky, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. It’s a rite of passage.

THE TACO OBSESSION
Tacos are the unofficial currency of Austin, and breakfast tacos are a cherished local institution. Forget a standard hotel breakfast at least once and seek out a local legend like Veracruz All Natural. Their Migas Poblanas taco, a perfect mix of eggs, tortilla chips, poblano peppers, and cheese wrapped in a fresh tortilla, is the perfect fuel for a long day at the track or the ideal recovery meal.

THE ROLLING RESTAURANTS
Austin's spirit of creativity is perfectly captured by its incredible food truck scene. Dotted in parks and lots across the city, these kitchens-on-wheels offer everything from gourmet donuts to authentic Thai. Wandering through a food truck park is a quintessential Austin experience—a delicious adventure with endless options.

Nightlife

SOUTH CONGRESS: STROLL & SHOP
By night, the effortlessly cool SoCo district transforms. The unique boutiques stay open late, vintage signs glow, and the sounds of live music spill from iconic venues like The Continental Club. It’s the perfect place for a post-dinner stroll, a bit of window shopping, and soaking in the city’s stylish, retro soul.

RAINEY STREET: BUNGALOW BAR-HOPPING
This is a uniquely Austin experience. A row of historic houses has been charmingly converted into a vibrant collection of bars, each with its own distinct personality and sprawling backyard patio. It's less intense than 6th Street but with a palpable, social buzz. Start at one end and hop from one twinkling, string-lit yard to another.

6TH STREET: THE ICONIC PULSE
Known across the country, 6th Street (or "Dirty Sixth," as locals call it) is the loud, energetic, neon-soaked heart of Austin’s party scene. It's a rite of passage, packed with bustling bars, live music of every genre, and a river of people looking for a good time. Embrace the chaos for a true taste of Austin's wild side.