Long Beach Street Circuit
Location:
Long Beach, California, USA
Local Weather & Time
Track Info
Long Beach Street Circuit - Long Beach, California, USA
Temporary waterfront street course using Shoreline Drive and downtown roads - clockwise - hairpin finale and fountain complex
When was the track built?
It is a temporary circuit assembled each spring around the Long Beach Convention Center and marina district. The first layout ran in 1975 for Formula 5000; the venue stepped up to Formula 1 as the United States Grand Prix West from 1976 to 1983, then evolved into a CART and later IndyCar staple with iterative tweaks to walls, kerbs and sightlines while retaining the Shoreline Drive straight and hairpin signature.
When was its first race?
The city’s first race was the Formula 5000 Long Beach Grand Prix on September 28, 1975, won by Brian Redman. Formula 1 arrived the next spring, and since 1984 the event has been North America’s longest-running major street race under CART/Champ Car and IndyCar.
What's the circuit like?
- Fast into heavy stops: The lap launches down Shoreline Drive into a big T1 brake zone, then flows past the Aquarium fountain toward technical city blocks.
- Hairpin drama: The ultra-tight T11 hairpin funnels the pack before the front straight. Exit traction here decides passes into T1.
- Street-surface quirks: Crowned roads, paint lines and bumps reward precise braking and rotation. Grip ramps up quickly across the weekend.
- Strategy themes: Cautions often reshape pit windows on this relatively short lap. Undercuts can work if you rejoin into clean air before the hairpin queue.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar race lap record 1:07.2359 (2022). Poles typically sit around the 1:06 low 1:05 range in recent years.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:07.2359 - Álex Palou, 2022 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.
- IMSA GTP/DPi (race lap): 1:10.317 - Sébastien Bourdais, Cadillac DPi-V.R, 2022 Long Beach. Earlier DPi mark 1:11.932 set in 2019 (Pipo Derani).
- LMP1 (ALMS race lap): 1:12.599 - Marco Werner, Audi R10 TDI, 2008. LMP2: 1:12.383 - Patrick Long, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2008.
Why go?
Southern California’s classic street race weekend - beach weather, a downtown festival and grandstands close to the action. The long Shoreline straight and the hairpin guarantee late-braking theatre, while vendor villages and concerts make it a destination even between sessions.
Where's the best place to watch?
- T1 grandstands on Shoreline Drive: Starts, restarts and out-braking duels into the first complex.
- Fountain complex: Great visuals as cars snake past the Aquarium with change-of-direction through the parkland section.
- Back-straight brake zone (T9/T10): Set-up moves that often decide track position before the hairpin.
- T11 hairpin and main straight: See traction fights off the slowest corner and slipstream sprints to the flag. Official maps pinpoint grandstand clusters around these areas.
Not just IndyCar: sports cars and support series
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: Prototype and GT fields run a 100-minute street sprint that has rewritten class lap records in the modern era.
Indy NXT and ladder series: The Road to Indy brings tight packs and bold passes into T1 and the hairpin.
Historic and festival elements: Manufacturer displays, Super Drift exhibitions and ancillary events turn the waterfront into a three-day motorsport fair.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Long Beach Street Circuit - Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
Best options are the Metro A Line light rail to Downtown Long Beach or 1st Street with a short walk, Long Beach Transit services adjusted for race weekend, rideshare to the designated drop zone on 1st St between Elm and Long Beach Blvd, and pre-booked parking in official or nearby garages. Expect multi day road closures around the waterfront and Convention Center.
Metro A Line - the easiest way
- Ride to Downtown Long Beach or 1st Street: Both stations put you in the heart of the event footprint along the 1st St transit mall. Follow signs to your gate.
- From the LA region: Metrolink riders can connect at Los Angeles Union Station to the A Line for a one seat ride to Long Beach.
- Post race tip: Trains and platforms are busy right after the checkered flag - waiting 15 30 minutes can be faster overall.
Long Beach Transit during GP weekend
- Passport and key routes detoured: The free Passport and Routes 61 and 71 operate on special detours - no service to Shoreline Village or the Aquarium during race days. Check LBT alerts before you go.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set your drop to: 1st St between Elm St and Long Beach Blvd - the official circuit drop off corridor. From there it is a signed walk to the gates.
- After sessions: Demand spikes at this corridor - walking a couple of blocks before requesting can reduce wait times.
Driving and parking
- Official reserved parking: Limited, pre paid lots run by the Grand Prix - typically open from 7:00. Purchase via the ticket office and bring the correct pass.
- Downtown garages: The Long Beach Entertainment Center lists Convention Center garages and nearby facilities used on event days. Expect event rates and allow extra time to walk in.
Walking from stations and garages
- From Metro A Line: 5 15 minutes to most entrances depending on your stand and crowd control - the transit mall runs along 1st St in the circuit area.
- From garages and lots: Follow event wayfinding and the circuit map from the Convention Center promenade and Seaside Way.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: Must be reserved in advance through the ticket office - valid California placard plate and eligible holder are required.
- Gate routing: Use the circuit map and ask staff for the shortest step friendly route from the transit mall or your garage.
Airports and long distance travel
- Long Beach Airport LGB → circuit area: about 6 10 miles depending on route - taxis, rideshare and Long Beach Transit buses are available.
- Los Angeles International LAX → circuit area: roughly 22 23 miles by road - Metro connections via the new LAX Metro Transit Center can link you to the A Line for Downtown Long Beach.
Road closures and traffic management
- Downtown closures: The city publishes a daily list of closures and access points from Wednesday through Monday of race week - check the current advisory before you drive.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Metro and rideshare arrivals on 1st St: shortest for Convention Center side gates and grandstands along Shoreline Dr - Ocean Blvd.
- Garage parkers: Convention Center garages place you near the Promenade and Seaside Way approaches to the circuit entrances - follow stewarded routes.
Always follow the gate printed on your e ticket and the Acura Grand Prix transport pages for any last minute detours, garage operations and ADA instructions.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Long Beach Street Circuit (Long Beach - California, USA)
Whether you are here for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, IMSA, Super Drift, Super Stadium Trucks or a classic car festival, the downtown waterfront location puts aquariums, beaches, harbor cruises and galleries at your feet - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- Aquarium of the Pacific: One of the West Coast's best aquariums with touch pools, playful otters and outdoor sea lion habitats. Timed entry is common on busy weekends.
- Harbor cruises and whale watching: Sightseeing loops from Rainbow Harbor year round. Gray whale season typically runs winter - early spring, blue whale viewing in summer.
- Shoreline Village and the Pike Outlets: Carousel rides, a small Ferris wheel, arcades and easy family dining on the waterfront.
- Naples Canals - kayaks and gondolas: Calm water paddling or guided gondola style rides through picturesque residential canals.
- El Dorado Nature Center: Lakeside loops and a kid friendly visitor center under the trees - a great cool morning option.
- Queen Mary: Historic ocean liner at the waterfront with tours offered most days. Check current schedule for any special closures or events.
Popular attractions near the harbor often use dated tickets on race weekends - reserve ahead for Friday and Saturday slots.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Museum of Latin American Art - MOLAA: The only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art.
- Long Beach Museum of Art + LBMA Downtown: Oceanside galleries and a satellite space downtown for a compact culture loop.
- Rancho Los Alamitos or Rancho Los Cerritos: California history homes with gardens and exhibits in peaceful settings.
- Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum: Small but thoughtful space that pairs nicely with nearby cafés.
- The Queen Mary exhibits: When open, interior exhibits provide a solid rainy day plan close to the circuit zone.
Eat and drink like a local
- Pine Avenue and the Promenade: Lively bar and restaurant stretch for post qualifying dinners and late desserts.
- Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor: Waterfront patios for seafood and sunset views steps from grandstands.
- Belmont Shore - 2nd Street: Brunch spots, taco joints and gelato after a beach walk.
- Coffee and breakfast: Independent roasters and bakeries downtown are perfect for an early pit stop before morning sessions.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday prime times book out quickly - reserve ahead for groups and waterfront tables.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Beach bike path: Flat, scenic path from Downtown toward Belmont Shore and beyond. Bike and e-bike rentals are widely available.
- Alamitos Beach and Junipero: Wide sandy strand for quick dips or a relaxed stroll between sessions.
- Bluff Park and Bixby Park: Grassy overlooks and short walking loops with ocean views.
- Kayak the Colorado Lagoon and Marine Stadium: Sheltered waters that suit beginners and families.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Catalina Island - About 1 hour each way by ferry. Zip lines, glass bottom boats, coastal hikes and seaside cafés in Avalon. Reserve ferry seats in advance.
- Disneyland Resort - Anaheim - 30 to 45 minutes. A single park day is doable if you add an extra night.
- Knott's Berry Farm - Buena Park - 25 to 35 minutes. Classic coasters and family rides.
- Griffith Observatory and Hollywood - 45 to 70 minutes depending on traffic. Skyline views and museum exhibits, then sunset photos at the Hollywood sign viewpoints.
- Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens - San Marino - 45 to 70 minutes. World class gardens and galleries for a calmer culture day.
- Seal Beach and Sunset Beach - 20 to 30 minutes. Smaller town vibes, pier views and relaxed dining.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Ferries, theme parks and major museums use timed tickets - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring race week turns downtown into a festival with fan zones and concerts. Hotels and restaurants near the harbor book quickly Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Mild coastal climate. Mornings can be overcast with a cool breeze, afternoons sunny. Pack layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for long stints on pavement and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Sections of Shoreline Drive, the Rainbow Harbor promenade and surrounding streets are fenced or rerouted. Follow event maps for gate locations and walking routes.
- Timed entry: The Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary tours and Catalina ferries often require advance booking on busy weekends.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, a hat, refillable bottle and ear protection for children. A light layer helps when the ocean breeze picks up after sunset.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Long Beach, California, USA
Track Info
Long Beach Street Circuit - Long Beach, California, USA
Temporary waterfront street course using Shoreline Drive and downtown roads - clockwise - hairpin finale and fountain complex
When was the track built?
It is a temporary circuit assembled each spring around the Long Beach Convention Center and marina district. The first layout ran in 1975 for Formula 5000; the venue stepped up to Formula 1 as the United States Grand Prix West from 1976 to 1983, then evolved into a CART and later IndyCar staple with iterative tweaks to walls, kerbs and sightlines while retaining the Shoreline Drive straight and hairpin signature.
When was its first race?
The city’s first race was the Formula 5000 Long Beach Grand Prix on September 28, 1975, won by Brian Redman. Formula 1 arrived the next spring, and since 1984 the event has been North America’s longest-running major street race under CART/Champ Car and IndyCar.
What's the circuit like?
- Fast into heavy stops: The lap launches down Shoreline Drive into a big T1 brake zone, then flows past the Aquarium fountain toward technical city blocks.
- Hairpin drama: The ultra-tight T11 hairpin funnels the pack before the front straight. Exit traction here decides passes into T1.
- Street-surface quirks: Crowned roads, paint lines and bumps reward precise braking and rotation. Grip ramps up quickly across the weekend.
- Strategy themes: Cautions often reshape pit windows on this relatively short lap. Undercuts can work if you rejoin into clean air before the hairpin queue.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar race lap record 1:07.2359 (2022). Poles typically sit around the 1:06 low 1:05 range in recent years.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:07.2359 - Álex Palou, 2022 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.
- IMSA GTP/DPi (race lap): 1:10.317 - Sébastien Bourdais, Cadillac DPi-V.R, 2022 Long Beach. Earlier DPi mark 1:11.932 set in 2019 (Pipo Derani).
- LMP1 (ALMS race lap): 1:12.599 - Marco Werner, Audi R10 TDI, 2008. LMP2: 1:12.383 - Patrick Long, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2008.
Why go?
Southern California’s classic street race weekend - beach weather, a downtown festival and grandstands close to the action. The long Shoreline straight and the hairpin guarantee late-braking theatre, while vendor villages and concerts make it a destination even between sessions.
Where's the best place to watch?
- T1 grandstands on Shoreline Drive: Starts, restarts and out-braking duels into the first complex.
- Fountain complex: Great visuals as cars snake past the Aquarium with change-of-direction through the parkland section.
- Back-straight brake zone (T9/T10): Set-up moves that often decide track position before the hairpin.
- T11 hairpin and main straight: See traction fights off the slowest corner and slipstream sprints to the flag. Official maps pinpoint grandstand clusters around these areas.
Not just IndyCar: sports cars and support series
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: Prototype and GT fields run a 100-minute street sprint that has rewritten class lap records in the modern era.
Indy NXT and ladder series: The Road to Indy brings tight packs and bold passes into T1 and the hairpin.
Historic and festival elements: Manufacturer displays, Super Drift exhibitions and ancillary events turn the waterfront into a three-day motorsport fair.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Long Beach Street Circuit - Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
Best options are the Metro A Line light rail to Downtown Long Beach or 1st Street with a short walk, Long Beach Transit services adjusted for race weekend, rideshare to the designated drop zone on 1st St between Elm and Long Beach Blvd, and pre-booked parking in official or nearby garages. Expect multi day road closures around the waterfront and Convention Center.
Metro A Line - the easiest way
- Ride to Downtown Long Beach or 1st Street: Both stations put you in the heart of the event footprint along the 1st St transit mall. Follow signs to your gate.
- From the LA region: Metrolink riders can connect at Los Angeles Union Station to the A Line for a one seat ride to Long Beach.
- Post race tip: Trains and platforms are busy right after the checkered flag - waiting 15 30 minutes can be faster overall.
Long Beach Transit during GP weekend
- Passport and key routes detoured: The free Passport and Routes 61 and 71 operate on special detours - no service to Shoreline Village or the Aquarium during race days. Check LBT alerts before you go.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set your drop to: 1st St between Elm St and Long Beach Blvd - the official circuit drop off corridor. From there it is a signed walk to the gates.
- After sessions: Demand spikes at this corridor - walking a couple of blocks before requesting can reduce wait times.
Driving and parking
- Official reserved parking: Limited, pre paid lots run by the Grand Prix - typically open from 7:00. Purchase via the ticket office and bring the correct pass.
- Downtown garages: The Long Beach Entertainment Center lists Convention Center garages and nearby facilities used on event days. Expect event rates and allow extra time to walk in.
Walking from stations and garages
- From Metro A Line: 5 15 minutes to most entrances depending on your stand and crowd control - the transit mall runs along 1st St in the circuit area.
- From garages and lots: Follow event wayfinding and the circuit map from the Convention Center promenade and Seaside Way.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: Must be reserved in advance through the ticket office - valid California placard plate and eligible holder are required.
- Gate routing: Use the circuit map and ask staff for the shortest step friendly route from the transit mall or your garage.
Airports and long distance travel
- Long Beach Airport LGB → circuit area: about 6 10 miles depending on route - taxis, rideshare and Long Beach Transit buses are available.
- Los Angeles International LAX → circuit area: roughly 22 23 miles by road - Metro connections via the new LAX Metro Transit Center can link you to the A Line for Downtown Long Beach.
Road closures and traffic management
- Downtown closures: The city publishes a daily list of closures and access points from Wednesday through Monday of race week - check the current advisory before you drive.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Metro and rideshare arrivals on 1st St: shortest for Convention Center side gates and grandstands along Shoreline Dr - Ocean Blvd.
- Garage parkers: Convention Center garages place you near the Promenade and Seaside Way approaches to the circuit entrances - follow stewarded routes.
Always follow the gate printed on your e ticket and the Acura Grand Prix transport pages for any last minute detours, garage operations and ADA instructions.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Long Beach Street Circuit (Long Beach - California, USA)
Whether you are here for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, IMSA, Super Drift, Super Stadium Trucks or a classic car festival, the downtown waterfront location puts aquariums, beaches, harbor cruises and galleries at your feet - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- Aquarium of the Pacific: One of the West Coast's best aquariums with touch pools, playful otters and outdoor sea lion habitats. Timed entry is common on busy weekends.
- Harbor cruises and whale watching: Sightseeing loops from Rainbow Harbor year round. Gray whale season typically runs winter - early spring, blue whale viewing in summer.
- Shoreline Village and the Pike Outlets: Carousel rides, a small Ferris wheel, arcades and easy family dining on the waterfront.
- Naples Canals - kayaks and gondolas: Calm water paddling or guided gondola style rides through picturesque residential canals.
- El Dorado Nature Center: Lakeside loops and a kid friendly visitor center under the trees - a great cool morning option.
- Queen Mary: Historic ocean liner at the waterfront with tours offered most days. Check current schedule for any special closures or events.
Popular attractions near the harbor often use dated tickets on race weekends - reserve ahead for Friday and Saturday slots.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Museum of Latin American Art - MOLAA: The only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art.
- Long Beach Museum of Art + LBMA Downtown: Oceanside galleries and a satellite space downtown for a compact culture loop.
- Rancho Los Alamitos or Rancho Los Cerritos: California history homes with gardens and exhibits in peaceful settings.
- Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum: Small but thoughtful space that pairs nicely with nearby cafés.
- The Queen Mary exhibits: When open, interior exhibits provide a solid rainy day plan close to the circuit zone.
Eat and drink like a local
- Pine Avenue and the Promenade: Lively bar and restaurant stretch for post qualifying dinners and late desserts.
- Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor: Waterfront patios for seafood and sunset views steps from grandstands.
- Belmont Shore - 2nd Street: Brunch spots, taco joints and gelato after a beach walk.
- Coffee and breakfast: Independent roasters and bakeries downtown are perfect for an early pit stop before morning sessions.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday prime times book out quickly - reserve ahead for groups and waterfront tables.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Beach bike path: Flat, scenic path from Downtown toward Belmont Shore and beyond. Bike and e-bike rentals are widely available.
- Alamitos Beach and Junipero: Wide sandy strand for quick dips or a relaxed stroll between sessions.
- Bluff Park and Bixby Park: Grassy overlooks and short walking loops with ocean views.
- Kayak the Colorado Lagoon and Marine Stadium: Sheltered waters that suit beginners and families.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Catalina Island - About 1 hour each way by ferry. Zip lines, glass bottom boats, coastal hikes and seaside cafés in Avalon. Reserve ferry seats in advance.
- Disneyland Resort - Anaheim - 30 to 45 minutes. A single park day is doable if you add an extra night.
- Knott's Berry Farm - Buena Park - 25 to 35 minutes. Classic coasters and family rides.
- Griffith Observatory and Hollywood - 45 to 70 minutes depending on traffic. Skyline views and museum exhibits, then sunset photos at the Hollywood sign viewpoints.
- Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens - San Marino - 45 to 70 minutes. World class gardens and galleries for a calmer culture day.
- Seal Beach and Sunset Beach - 20 to 30 minutes. Smaller town vibes, pier views and relaxed dining.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Ferries, theme parks and major museums use timed tickets - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring race week turns downtown into a festival with fan zones and concerts. Hotels and restaurants near the harbor book quickly Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Mild coastal climate. Mornings can be overcast with a cool breeze, afternoons sunny. Pack layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for long stints on pavement and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Sections of Shoreline Drive, the Rainbow Harbor promenade and surrounding streets are fenced or rerouted. Follow event maps for gate locations and walking routes.
- Timed entry: The Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary tours and Catalina ferries often require advance booking on busy weekends.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, a hat, refillable bottle and ear protection for children. A light layer helps when the ocean breeze picks up after sunset.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
