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F1 Weekend: Everything To Do Besides The Races

There's plenty to do at COTA...


...even if you're not a big Formula 1 fan. Make no mistake, the F1 United States Grand Prix is a HUGE event, and there's something for everyone. Sure, we highly recommend taking in all the heart-stopping action on the track, but if you want to mix up your weekend itinerary, Circuit of The Americas has it all, from live music to a giant, brand new theme park! See our picks below, and get ready for F1 Weekend!


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Introducing Grand PrixView Thursday

Let's be honest, three days was never gonna be enough. So they added a FOURTH! 


Introducing Grand PrixView Thursday, October 22, an all-new way to experience the excitement of the 2026 Formula 1 MSC Cruises United States Grand Prix before the race weekend officially begins.

 

For just $20, this is Circuit of The Americas' open house to the community. Come and experience F1 for yourself and be a part of the biggest party in motorsports.


Next Generation of Female Talent


Step into the F1 ACADEMY Paddock and watch the world's top female drivers prepare for the weekend ahead.

 

Pit Lane, Up Close


Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to walk F1 Pit Lane. Feel the heat of the garages, watch mechanics run final checks, and stand where the race begins.


A No-Lines Day at COTALAND


Austin's first major theme park, without the crowds. Grand PrixView Thursday is your chance to experience COTALAND before the weekend fills up.

*COTALAND admission sold separately


An Open House, Just $20 To Get In


Grand PrixView Thursday is Austin's invitation to see what The Circuit has become, up close with F1, before the weekend gets crowded. Standalone tickets are only $20. Grab yours here. 


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The American Soundtrack

The F1 USGP isn't just about the big race. The other big thing everyone talks about is the MUSIC. In past years, the event has hosted heavy hitters like Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake and Green Day. This year looks to be bigger than ever, with headliners Maroon 5, Post Malone and Alesso leading a packed lineup of big-name artists and Austin favorites. 


Multi-platinum pop group Maroon 5 takes over on Friday at the Germania Insurance Super Stage; that same spot will host rapper and country music newcomer Post Malone the following night. And on Sunday evening don't miss the Post-Race show featuring EDM giant Alesso at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater!


Other American Soundtrack artists include Gina Chavez, Carrie Rodriguez, Nakia & the Never Not Now, Next of Kin, Jennifer Foster & the Audacity, Moving Panoramas and more. You can find the full schedule here.


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COTALAND

Who says the drivers get to have all the thrills? New for 2026 is the just-opened COTALAND, a bona fide theme park located right next to the track! From first rides to iconic coasters, the attractions here offer something for every age and every level of adventure. Here are some of the highlights!


Circuit Breaker


Texas’ only tilt coaster and a true supercoaster. Experience the adrenaline of an intense tilt drop experience unlike anything else in the region, engineered to keep you on the edge of your seat.


Downforce


Feel the rush as Downforce launches you into high-speed motion, powerful spins, and intense G-forces. Built for thrill-seekers, this ride delivers nonstop adrenaline from start to finish.


Cloud Flyer


Pure joy from liftoff to landing. Soar 150 feet above the park on this towering swing ride for unbeatable views of the entire Circuit of The Americas layout.


Retro Rambler


Ride the wild side on this Texas-sized coaster packed with quick turns, sudden drops, and untamed energy from start to finish.


Palindrome


The first infinity shuttle coaster in the U.S. and the only steel coaster to soar over an active road. This machine rockets you forward and backward through a gravity-defying course.


Some of these sound pretty intense, but there's also more family-friendly options if you're bringing the kids, like the Doggy Dash, Grand Carousel, Lil' Logger, Safari Adventure and more! You can find all the attractions and plan your visit here. 


Mini Golf


Put your putt-putt skills to the test at Speed City’s mini-golf course! Take a lap around the 18-hole ‘Circuit Course’ and experience a fun adventure of world-champion-themed action. Looking for something more challenging? COTA also offers a 9-hole ‘Champions Course,’ inspired by professional golf course greens with elegant crests and sand bunkers. PLUS: Don't miss out on friendship bracelets and custom cowboy hats too!


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The Guest House at Turn 20


Experience F1 from an all-new perspective at The Guest House at Turn 20. Enjoy panoramic track views, all-inclusive dining curated by The Guest House, an open bar, climate-controlled comfort, a shaded rooftop terrace, enhanced concert access, and an Unlimited 3-Day COTALAND Ride Wristband. From late-race overtakes through Turns 17-20 to the checkered flag and podium celebration, every defining moment unfolds right in front of you.


This premium experience pairs elevated dining, curated by The Guest House, with exceptional hospitality and panoramic views from one of the most exciting vantage points at Circuit of The Americas.


Beyond the track, complete your race weekend with unlimited access to COTALAND, Austin's first and only theme park, plus premium amenities designed to keep you close to the action all weekend long.

 

Your Experience Includes:

  • Elevated all-inclusive dining & beverages, curated by The Guest House
  • Climate-controlled indoor lounge
  • Shaded rooftop viewing terrace
  • Panoramic views of Turns 17-20, the Main Straight, Starting Grid & Turn 1
  • Dedicated venue entry
  • Enhanced Germania Insurance Super Stage concert access
  • Unlimited 3-Day COTALAND Ride Wristband

Lock in your spot here. 


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See you at the track!
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