COTA (Circuit of the Americas)
Location:
Austin, Texas, USA
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at COTA (Circuit of the Americas)
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Lone Star Le Mans
World Endurance Championship
4 - 6 Sep
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United States Grand Prix
Formula 1 Academy
23 - 25 Oct
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United States Grand Prix
Formula 1
23 - 25 Oct
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Track Info
Circuit of the Americas - Austin, USA
Permanent road course in Texas Hill Country - anti clockwise - signature uphill Turn 1 and a fast, flowing first sector
When was the track built?
Designed from the ground up for modern grand prix racing, COTA was built between 2010 and 2012 on undulating terrain southeast of Austin. The layout mixes classic high speed direction changes with heavy braking zones to create multiple passing opportunities and a tough setup compromise.
Resurfacing and bump fixes have been carried out several times to smooth the most weathered patches, while keeping the dramatic crest into Turn 1 that defines the circuit’s silhouette.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 2012 United States Grand Prix, won by Lewis Hamilton. Since then it has hosted F1 annually and expanded into a multi discipline calendar.
What's the circuit like?
- Turn 1 climb: A steep uphill run compresses braking for a tight left hairpin, then the lap plunges into the Esses.
- The Esses: Turns 3 to 6 emulate fast left right sequences where a small mistake propagates through the entire complex.
- Back straight drag: The T11 hairpin exit sets top speed on a 1 km straight into a heavy stop at T12 with divebomb potential.
- Stadium and triples: The T12 15 stadium section rewards rotation and traction, followed by the long loaded triple right at T16 18 and the off camber T19 that catches out track limits.
- DRS and overtakes: Two DRS zones - main straight into T1 and the back straight into T12 - create repeated passing chances and switchbacks.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:36.169. Poles often land in the 1:32 1:34 range depending on era and conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:36.169 - Charles Leclerc, 2019 United States GP - current 5.513 km layout.
- MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas: Premier bikes since 2013 on a motorcycle specific setup, showcasing elbow down commitment through the Esses and the T16 18 arc.
- NASCAR Cup Series: Stock cars have raced here since 2021, using the full grand prix course for road race showdowns.
- FIA WEC: 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas hosted multiple seasons, with hybrid prototypes demonstrating huge downforce through the fast sweepers.
- IndyCar (2019): Single visit that highlighted open wheel variation on the same layout, with slipstream battles into T12.
- GT and one make: GT World Challenge America and Porsche Carrera Cup North America bring deep grids and close racing on F1 weekends and stand alone events.
Why go?
A purpose built fan venue with great sightlines, festival scale fan zones and Austin’s food and music a short ride away. The uphill start and dual DRS zones deliver real on track action, and the amphitheater keeps the energy high between sessions.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands and hill: See the uphill braking duel, lap one compressions and switchbacks on exit.
- Turn 12 stadium: End of the long back straight for classic out braking moves and side by side fights through T13 15.
- Esses at T3 6: Watch cars change direction at high speed and read who has the best front end.
- Turn 16 18 complex: Long loaded right handers where line choice and tyre management make visible differences.
- Main grandstand: Grid, pit stops, podium and the sprint to the flag with panoramic views down the straight.
Not just F1: American and world series at COTA
MotoGP: The Grand Prix of the Americas anchors the two wheel calendar in the US with massive crowds and unique camera angles over the crest at T1.
NASCAR Cup and Xfinity: Road racing spectacle with big braking and bump drafting into T12, plus robust kerb action in the stadium.
WEC and IMSA style endurance: Prototype and GT fields use multi class traffic to spice strategy and produce late cautions.
Porsche Carrera Cup North America and GT World Challenge: Deep pro and Pro Am grids, frequent photo finishes and a great read on rising talent.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Circuit of The Americas - Austin, Texas
Best options are the official COTA shuttles from Downtown and the Travis County Expo Center, pre-purchased on-site parking, and rideshare to the McAngus Lot with tram to the Grand Plaza. There is no general drive-up parking purchase on arrival during major events.
Official COTA shuttles - easiest way
- Pickup points: Downtown - Waterloo Park/Moody Amphitheater (Red River St) and Northeast - Travis County Expo Center.
- Service pattern: Shuttles run continuously starting about 60 minutes before gates open, using a dedicated bus lane. They drop and pick up just outside the Grand Plaza entry.
- Last inbound example: recent guidance showed last inbound departures mid-afternoon Sunday and early evening Fri-Sat - always check the current year’s times when you buy.
Tip: If you plan to linger for concerts, confirm the final return shuttle before heading into the fanzone.
Rideshare - McAngus Lot + tram
- Where to set: Choose McAngus Lot in your app. Rideshare vehicles are not permitted on COTA Blvd during race weekends.
- Free tram: A complimentary tram links McAngus and the Ticketmaster Box Office near the Grand Plaza, reducing the walk.
Driving and parking
- Pre-purchase required: An on-site parking pass is required to access COTA Blvd - there are no drive-up sales during major events.
- Lot colors and routing: Follow the color on your pass (e.g., Blue C-D-E-F-G-H-K, White A-N-T, Red L-R-S) and the signed approach from SH-130 exits for Elroy Rd or FM 812.
- Internal trams: Event tram routes operate between major parking zones and fan entrances - check the current event map for stops.
Public transit note
- CapMetro to the area: Route 20 serves AUS Airport and connects toward the east side. Route 271 (Del Valle Feeder) serves the Del Valle area, but does not drop at COTA gates - you will still need a taxi or rideshare for the last leg.
Walking the last leg
- From shuttle drop: Grand Plaza entry is a short signed walk from the shuttle set-down area.
- From McAngus: Use the complimentary tram where available rather than walking the full distance along COTA Blvd.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport AUS → COTA: roughly 9-12 miles by road depending on route - taxi or rideshare to McAngus is simplest if you are going straight to the track.
- AUS → Downtown: CapMetro Route 20 runs between AUS and downtown for hotel transfers before using the COTA shuttles.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Shuttle arrivals: Grand Plaza gates - follow signage to Main Grandstand, Turn 1 and Fan Zone.
- Rideshare arrivals: McAngus Lot - ride the free tram to the Grand Plaza, then continue to your ticketed entrance.
Always follow the lot letter and gate printed on your e-ticket and check COTA’s shuttle page for the current year’s first/last departures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Circuit of the Americas - COTA (Austin, Texas, USA)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, MotoGP, NASCAR Cup Series or a national race weekend, Austin mixes live music, parks, BBQ and hill country day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit and downtown
- COTA Karting & Observation Tower: Arrive and drive kart sessions on select non event days, plus a 77 m tower with skyline views when open. Availability changes during big events.
- Thinkery - Children’s Museum: Hands on science and maker spaces in the Mueller district.
- Lady Bird Lake: Rent kayaks or stand up paddleboards and glide past the skyline. Flat water suits beginners.
- Zilker Park & Barton Springs Pool: Iconic spring fed pool stays around 20°C year round - brilliant on hot days. Playground and botanical garden next door.
- Bullock Texas State History Museum: Texas stories with an IMAX theater for an easy rainy day plan.
- Austin Zoo: Small rescue focused zoo that works well for younger kids.
- Inner Space Cavern (Georgetown): Guided cave tours about 45 minutes north - cool underground temperatures year round.
Some attractions use timed entry on busy weekends. Check hours for race week Friday and Saturday evenings.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- LBJ Presidential Library: Presidential history and rotating exhibits on the University of Texas campus.
- Blanton Museum of Art: Noted for Latin American and contemporary collections - compact enough for a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Mexic-Arte Museum: Downtown gallery for Mexican and Latino art and design.
- State Capitol: Free self guided tours of the pink granite landmark - pair with a stroll on Congress Avenue.
Eat and drink like a local
- BBQ pilgrimage: Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue and Terry Black’s are race week favorites. Go early or order ahead where possible.
- Tex Mex and tacos: Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple - try spots like Veracruz All Natural or Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ.
- South Congress: Boutiques, patios and people watching for pre or post session meals.
- Rainey Street: Bungalow bars and food trucks - lively after qualifying.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Congress Avenue Bridge bats: From roughly March to October, watch North America’s largest urban bat colony emerge at sunset.
- Barton Creek Greenbelt: Easy hiking and limestone swimming holes when water levels are up.
- Mount Bonnell & Covert Park: Short stair climb to a classic hilltop view - best at sunrise or sunset.
- McKinney Falls State Park: Trails and swimming spots on Onion Creek about 25 minutes from downtown.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Hill Country - Dripping Springs and Wimberley - 45 to 70 minutes. Breweries, distilleries and swimming holes like Blue Hole Regional Park. Hamilton Pool Preserve is reservation only.
- Fredericksburg & Enchanted Rock - 1.5 to 2 hours. German heritage town, wineries and a pink granite dome hike with big views.
- Lockhart BBQ Trail - 40 to 60 minutes. Legendary smokehouses for a lunch pilgrimage.
- New Braunfels & Gruene - 50 to 70 minutes. River tubing on the Comal or Guadalupe in season, plus live music at Gruene Hall.
- San Antonio - 1.5 hours. The Alamo, River Walk boat tours and Pearl District dining - good full day option.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular parks and pools may require timed reservations in peak season.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring hosts MotoGP and other series, autumn often hosts F1 and major concerts. Hotels and restaurants book out quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Expect heat and sun. Carry water, sunscreen and a hat. Thunderstorms can form in late afternoon - have an indoor backup plan.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, tower visits and zip line activities operate on select dates and may pause during major events - check availability if you want to fit them around sessions.
- City overlap: Big festivals and concerts often coincide with race weekends. Reserve museum slots, pool entries and dinner tables as early as possible.
- What to bring: Lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes for long days on concrete, and a compact rain layer for pop up storms.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Austin, Texas, USA
Track Info
Circuit of the Americas - Austin, USA
Permanent road course in Texas Hill Country - anti clockwise - signature uphill Turn 1 and a fast, flowing first sector
When was the track built?
Designed from the ground up for modern grand prix racing, COTA was built between 2010 and 2012 on undulating terrain southeast of Austin. The layout mixes classic high speed direction changes with heavy braking zones to create multiple passing opportunities and a tough setup compromise.
Resurfacing and bump fixes have been carried out several times to smooth the most weathered patches, while keeping the dramatic crest into Turn 1 that defines the circuit’s silhouette.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 2012 United States Grand Prix, won by Lewis Hamilton. Since then it has hosted F1 annually and expanded into a multi discipline calendar.
What's the circuit like?
- Turn 1 climb: A steep uphill run compresses braking for a tight left hairpin, then the lap plunges into the Esses.
- The Esses: Turns 3 to 6 emulate fast left right sequences where a small mistake propagates through the entire complex.
- Back straight drag: The T11 hairpin exit sets top speed on a 1 km straight into a heavy stop at T12 with divebomb potential.
- Stadium and triples: The T12 15 stadium section rewards rotation and traction, followed by the long loaded triple right at T16 18 and the off camber T19 that catches out track limits.
- DRS and overtakes: Two DRS zones - main straight into T1 and the back straight into T12 - create repeated passing chances and switchbacks.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:36.169. Poles often land in the 1:32 1:34 range depending on era and conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:36.169 - Charles Leclerc, 2019 United States GP - current 5.513 km layout.
- MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas: Premier bikes since 2013 on a motorcycle specific setup, showcasing elbow down commitment through the Esses and the T16 18 arc.
- NASCAR Cup Series: Stock cars have raced here since 2021, using the full grand prix course for road race showdowns.
- FIA WEC: 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas hosted multiple seasons, with hybrid prototypes demonstrating huge downforce through the fast sweepers.
- IndyCar (2019): Single visit that highlighted open wheel variation on the same layout, with slipstream battles into T12.
- GT and one make: GT World Challenge America and Porsche Carrera Cup North America bring deep grids and close racing on F1 weekends and stand alone events.
Why go?
A purpose built fan venue with great sightlines, festival scale fan zones and Austin’s food and music a short ride away. The uphill start and dual DRS zones deliver real on track action, and the amphitheater keeps the energy high between sessions.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands and hill: See the uphill braking duel, lap one compressions and switchbacks on exit.
- Turn 12 stadium: End of the long back straight for classic out braking moves and side by side fights through T13 15.
- Esses at T3 6: Watch cars change direction at high speed and read who has the best front end.
- Turn 16 18 complex: Long loaded right handers where line choice and tyre management make visible differences.
- Main grandstand: Grid, pit stops, podium and the sprint to the flag with panoramic views down the straight.
Not just F1: American and world series at COTA
MotoGP: The Grand Prix of the Americas anchors the two wheel calendar in the US with massive crowds and unique camera angles over the crest at T1.
NASCAR Cup and Xfinity: Road racing spectacle with big braking and bump drafting into T12, plus robust kerb action in the stadium.
WEC and IMSA style endurance: Prototype and GT fields use multi class traffic to spice strategy and produce late cautions.
Porsche Carrera Cup North America and GT World Challenge: Deep pro and Pro Am grids, frequent photo finishes and a great read on rising talent.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Circuit of The Americas - Austin, Texas
Best options are the official COTA shuttles from Downtown and the Travis County Expo Center, pre-purchased on-site parking, and rideshare to the McAngus Lot with tram to the Grand Plaza. There is no general drive-up parking purchase on arrival during major events.
Official COTA shuttles - easiest way
- Pickup points: Downtown - Waterloo Park/Moody Amphitheater (Red River St) and Northeast - Travis County Expo Center.
- Service pattern: Shuttles run continuously starting about 60 minutes before gates open, using a dedicated bus lane. They drop and pick up just outside the Grand Plaza entry.
- Last inbound example: recent guidance showed last inbound departures mid-afternoon Sunday and early evening Fri-Sat - always check the current year’s times when you buy.
Tip: If you plan to linger for concerts, confirm the final return shuttle before heading into the fanzone.
Rideshare - McAngus Lot + tram
- Where to set: Choose McAngus Lot in your app. Rideshare vehicles are not permitted on COTA Blvd during race weekends.
- Free tram: A complimentary tram links McAngus and the Ticketmaster Box Office near the Grand Plaza, reducing the walk.
Driving and parking
- Pre-purchase required: An on-site parking pass is required to access COTA Blvd - there are no drive-up sales during major events.
- Lot colors and routing: Follow the color on your pass (e.g., Blue C-D-E-F-G-H-K, White A-N-T, Red L-R-S) and the signed approach from SH-130 exits for Elroy Rd or FM 812.
- Internal trams: Event tram routes operate between major parking zones and fan entrances - check the current event map for stops.
Public transit note
- CapMetro to the area: Route 20 serves AUS Airport and connects toward the east side. Route 271 (Del Valle Feeder) serves the Del Valle area, but does not drop at COTA gates - you will still need a taxi or rideshare for the last leg.
Walking the last leg
- From shuttle drop: Grand Plaza entry is a short signed walk from the shuttle set-down area.
- From McAngus: Use the complimentary tram where available rather than walking the full distance along COTA Blvd.
Airports and long-distance travel
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport AUS → COTA: roughly 9-12 miles by road depending on route - taxi or rideshare to McAngus is simplest if you are going straight to the track.
- AUS → Downtown: CapMetro Route 20 runs between AUS and downtown for hotel transfers before using the COTA shuttles.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Shuttle arrivals: Grand Plaza gates - follow signage to Main Grandstand, Turn 1 and Fan Zone.
- Rideshare arrivals: McAngus Lot - ride the free tram to the Grand Plaza, then continue to your ticketed entrance.
Always follow the lot letter and gate printed on your e-ticket and check COTA’s shuttle page for the current year’s first/last departures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Circuit of the Americas - COTA (Austin, Texas, USA)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, MotoGP, NASCAR Cup Series or a national race weekend, Austin mixes live music, parks, BBQ and hill country day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit and downtown
- COTA Karting & Observation Tower: Arrive and drive kart sessions on select non event days, plus a 77 m tower with skyline views when open. Availability changes during big events.
- Thinkery - Children’s Museum: Hands on science and maker spaces in the Mueller district.
- Lady Bird Lake: Rent kayaks or stand up paddleboards and glide past the skyline. Flat water suits beginners.
- Zilker Park & Barton Springs Pool: Iconic spring fed pool stays around 20°C year round - brilliant on hot days. Playground and botanical garden next door.
- Bullock Texas State History Museum: Texas stories with an IMAX theater for an easy rainy day plan.
- Austin Zoo: Small rescue focused zoo that works well for younger kids.
- Inner Space Cavern (Georgetown): Guided cave tours about 45 minutes north - cool underground temperatures year round.
Some attractions use timed entry on busy weekends. Check hours for race week Friday and Saturday evenings.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- LBJ Presidential Library: Presidential history and rotating exhibits on the University of Texas campus.
- Blanton Museum of Art: Noted for Latin American and contemporary collections - compact enough for a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Mexic-Arte Museum: Downtown gallery for Mexican and Latino art and design.
- State Capitol: Free self guided tours of the pink granite landmark - pair with a stroll on Congress Avenue.
Eat and drink like a local
- BBQ pilgrimage: Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue and Terry Black’s are race week favorites. Go early or order ahead where possible.
- Tex Mex and tacos: Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple - try spots like Veracruz All Natural or Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ.
- South Congress: Boutiques, patios and people watching for pre or post session meals.
- Rainey Street: Bungalow bars and food trucks - lively after qualifying.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Congress Avenue Bridge bats: From roughly March to October, watch North America’s largest urban bat colony emerge at sunset.
- Barton Creek Greenbelt: Easy hiking and limestone swimming holes when water levels are up.
- Mount Bonnell & Covert Park: Short stair climb to a classic hilltop view - best at sunrise or sunset.
- McKinney Falls State Park: Trails and swimming spots on Onion Creek about 25 minutes from downtown.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Hill Country - Dripping Springs and Wimberley - 45 to 70 minutes. Breweries, distilleries and swimming holes like Blue Hole Regional Park. Hamilton Pool Preserve is reservation only.
- Fredericksburg & Enchanted Rock - 1.5 to 2 hours. German heritage town, wineries and a pink granite dome hike with big views.
- Lockhart BBQ Trail - 40 to 60 minutes. Legendary smokehouses for a lunch pilgrimage.
- New Braunfels & Gruene - 50 to 70 minutes. River tubing on the Comal or Guadalupe in season, plus live music at Gruene Hall.
- San Antonio - 1.5 hours. The Alamo, River Walk boat tours and Pearl District dining - good full day option.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular parks and pools may require timed reservations in peak season.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring hosts MotoGP and other series, autumn often hosts F1 and major concerts. Hotels and restaurants book out quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Expect heat and sun. Carry water, sunscreen and a hat. Thunderstorms can form in late afternoon - have an indoor backup plan.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, tower visits and zip line activities operate on select dates and may pause during major events - check availability if you want to fit them around sessions.
- City overlap: Big festivals and concerts often coincide with race weekends. Reserve museum slots, pool entries and dinner tables as early as possible.
- What to bring: Lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes for long days on concrete, and a compact rain layer for pop up storms.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
