Circuit of The Americas

Circuit of The Americas guide

Circuit of the Americas, on the south-east edge of Austin, Texas, opened in 2012 and has hosted the United States Grand Prix since. The track is known for its steep climb to the first corner, a tight hairpin at the top of a hill, and for a sequence of fast, flowing corners modelled on famous sections of European circuits.

The Turn 1 grandstand, at the top of the hill, is the most popular reserved seat: it looks down the long climb from the start and over much of the circuit, and it sees the busiest moment of every race. The Main Grandstand on the start-finish straight faces the pit lane and the podium. Other grandstands sit at the slower corners, where overtaking is most likely. General admission covers large areas of grass banking around the track, with a good choice of viewpoints for those willing to walk.

The circuit covers a very large area and the walking distances are considerable, especially for general admission ticket holders. Texas in October can still be hot and sunny, and shade is limited outside the covered sections of some grandstands. Comfortable shoes, sun protection and water make a bigger difference to the weekend than the exact seat.

The circuit is outside the city, and race weekend traffic is heavy. Official shuttles run from downtown Austin and are the most common way in; parking passes are sold separately and the lots are some distance from the gates. PickStub is an independent marketplace and is not affiliated with the circuit, Formula 1 or any race organiser.

Frequently asked questions

Which grandstand is best at Circuit of the Americas?

The Turn 1 grandstand at the top of the hill is the most popular: it overlooks the climb from the start and much of the track. The Main Grandstand faces the pit lane and podium.

Is general admission worth it?

For those willing to walk, yes. It covers large grass areas with a wide choice of viewpoints, but the distances are considerable.

How do I get to the circuit?

Most fans use the official shuttles from downtown Austin. Parking passes are sold separately and the lots are some distance from the gates.

What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, sun protection and water. October in Texas can be hot and shade is limited.