St. Petersburg Street Circuit
Location:
Downtown St. Petersburg, USA
Local Weather & Time
Track Info
St. Petersburg Street Circuit - St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Temporary waterfront street course using downtown roads and a runway at Albert Whitted Airport - clockwise - IndyCar season opener staple
When was the track built?
St. Pete’s course is assembled each spring with temporary barriers and fencing through the waterfront grid, around the Mahaffey Theater and Dali Museum, and across a runway at Albert Whitted Airport. After the original 1985 1990 bayfront era and a brief 1996 1997 layout near Tropicana Field, the modern Grand Prix configuration debuted in 2003 and has been refined for sightlines, safety and pit lane operations.
When was its first race?
The city’s first race events ran in 1985 with SCCA Trans Am and Can Am. IndyCars arrived in 2003, and the Grand Prix has been the traditional IndyCar season opener in most years since 2005.
What's the circuit like?
- Runway launch: A long, wide start finish on the airport runway leads to heavy braking for Turn 1 and a quick change of direction through Turn 2.
- City rhythm: 90 degree corners along Bayshore Drive and Dan Wheldon Way create traction tests and wall proximity that punish tiny errors.
- Key overtakes: Turn 1 after the green flag and restarts, Turn 4 by the marina, and Turn 10 at the end of the back straight are prime passing zones.
- Surface and bumps: Concrete patches and manhole covers keep cars lively on braking. Grip ramps up across the weekend as rubber goes down.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar race lap record 1:00.6795. Poles often land in the high 58s to low 1:00s depending on conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:00.6795 - Josef Newgarden, 2024 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
- CART/Champ Car (race lap): 1:01.825 - Sébastien Bourdais, 2003.
- American Le Mans Series LMP1 (race lap): 1:04.725 - Allan McNish, Audi R10 TDI, 2007.
- American Le Mans Series LMP2 (race lap): 1:04.340 - Ryan Briscoe, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2007.
- Indy NXT (race lap): 1:04.7732 - Dennis Hauger, 2025.
Why go?
A postcard setting with waterfront views, marina backdrops and grandstands close to the action. The runway start, Turn 1 funnels and late brakers into Turn 10 make for dramatic restarts, while downtown St. Pete’s food and beaches turn race week into a mini holiday.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Starts, restarts and bold divebombs off the runway straight with quick direction change into Turn 2.
- Marina complex around Turns 3 5: Great visuals along the waterfront and side by side squeezes.
- Turn 10 braking zone: End of the long back straight on Dan Wheldon Way - classic out braking and switchbacks.
- Final sector: Fast kinks and traction fights back onto the runway where photo finishes happen.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, strategy swings and the chequered flag with wide sightlines up the runway.
Not just IndyCar: support series at St. Pete
Indy NXT: The top rung of the ladder to IndyCar, often producing photo finishes into Turn 1.
USF Pro 2000 and USF2000: Junior formulas that showcase future stars threading the walls.
Sports cars and touring: The event has hosted American Le Mans Series, Pirelli World Challenge/GT4 America and regional cups on various editions.
Stadium Super Trucks: High-flying support with ramp jumps along the waterfront on selected years.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to St. Petersburg Street Circuit - Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
Best options are the PSTA SunRunner BRT to the downtown stops by Gate 5 area, the free event shuttles from Tropicana Field parking, downtown garages within a short walk, and rideshare to the designated drop zone on 2nd St S. The course uses city streets and a runway at Albert Whitted Airport, so expect road closures and plan extra time.
SunRunner BRT - easiest way into downtown
- Ride SunRunner to downtown: It connects St. Pete Beach and downtown St. Petersburg all week with frequent service. Nearest stops for the GP are by 6th Ave S and 3rd St S, a short walk to circuit gates.
- Gate proximity note: Event guidance highlights SunRunner access for the Gate 5 area - always match your stop to the current year’s festival map.
- Downtown Looper: The free Downtown Looper trolley circulates central St. Pete and links with SunRunner. Handy if your parking or hotel is a few blocks away.
Tip: After the checkered flag, platforms and stops peak. Grabbing food near Central Ave or waiting 15-30 minutes can shorten total travel time.
Tropicana Field parking + free shuttle
- Where to park: Use Lots 6 and 7 at Tropicana Field for event parking. It is cashless and priced per day.
- How the shuttle works: Continuous free shuttle service links Tropicana Field and the circuit festival area during race weekend. Look for the marked shuttle stops on the festival map.
Rideshare and taxis
- Designated zone: Set drop off and pickup to 2nd St S between 6th Ave S and 5th Ave S. Vehicles are restricted from entering closer streets during the event.
- Post-race tip: If demand surges, walk a few blocks west toward 3rd St S or to a SunRunner stop to clear the densest crowd before requesting.
Driving and downtown parking
- Use downtown garages if not at Tropicana: SouthCore Garage at 101 1st Ave S and Sundial Garage at 117 2nd St N are common choices. Expect special event rates.
- Walk in from garages: Allow 10-20 minutes via signed pedestrian routes to the nearest gate shown on the year’s festival map.
Walking from stops and garages
- SunRunner - Looper - downtown lots → gates: Typical walks are 8-20 minutes depending on your gate and crowd control. Use the pedestrian bridges and designated crossings shown on the festival map.
Airports and long distance travel
- Tampa International Airport TPA → downtown St. Pete: roughly 22 miles by road. Rideshare and taxi are straightforward via I-275.
- St. Pete - Clearwater PIE → downtown St. Pete: about 10-13 miles depending on route.
- Albert Whitted SPG: the general aviation airport sits inside the event footprint along the waterfront.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Gate 5 - south side near 5th Ave S: closest from SunRunner stops around 6th Ave S - 3rd St S and from the rideshare corridor on 2nd St S.
- Main festival entrances around Bayshore Dr - 5th Ave S - Dali Museum area: follow the 2025 festival map for the exact gate to your grandstand.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the city - organizer transport bulletins for any last minute street closures, shuttle hours or stop changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around St. Petersburg Street Circuit (St. Petersburg - Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, support series or a festival weekend, the downtown waterfront location puts you steps from museums, parks, beaches and family attractions - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- St. Pete Pier District: Splash pads, playgrounds, casual eateries and skyline views at the end of a scenic pier. Great for evening strolls after the on track program.
- Great Explorations Children's Museum: Hands on exhibits for younger kids next to Sunken Gardens.
- Sunken Gardens: Historic botanical garden with flamingos and shaded paths - a calm morning before sessions.
- Morean Arts Center - Glass Studio & Hot Shop: Glassblowing demos that wow kids and adults. Pair with the Chihuly Collection nearby.
- Tampa options: The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are strong half day picks if you have extra time.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Rescue focused aquarium known for rehabilitation work - good for mixed age groups.
Popular attractions may use timed entry on busy weekends - reserve ahead for Friday and Saturday.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- The Dalí Museum: Surrealist icon with bayside architecture. Book a timed ticket for peak afternoons.
- Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg: Compact waterfront museum that suits a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Imagine Museum: Contemporary glass art in a manageable, family friendly format.
- James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art: Distinct collection in a modern downtown space - easy to pair with dinner nearby.
- American Stage and Mahaffey Theater: Check performance calendars for evening shows during race week.
Eat and drink like a local
- Beach Drive and Central Avenue: Patio dining, craft beer bars and dessert spots for post qualifying meals.
- Marina and Pier: Waterfront terraces for seafood and sunset views within a short walk of grandstands.
- Gulf flavors: Grouper sandwiches, shrimp baskets and key lime pie are race week staples.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday dinner slots fill fast - book ahead for groups and waterfront tables.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Bayshore and North Shore parks: Flat promenade walks and bike paths with bay views. Parts may be rerouted during the event.
- Fort De Soto Park: Award winning beaches, a historic fort and calm paddling waters - best early or late in the day.
- Kayak or SUP: Calm morning waters around Coffee Pot Bayou and the Vinoy Basin suit beginners.
- Beach time: St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille and Treasure Island for wide sands and gentle surf.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Clearwater Beach - 40 to 60 minutes. Pier 60 sunset scene, playgrounds and dolphin cruises.
- Tampa Riverwalk - 25 to 40 minutes. Waterfront stroll linking museums, parks and food halls.
- Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island - 50 to 70 minutes plus a short ferry. Nature trails and quiet beaches.
- Weeki Wachee Springs - About 75 to 90 minutes. Spring runs for kayaking and family friendly mermaid shows.
- Sarasota - 45 to 75 minutes. The Ringling Museum, St. Armands Circle and Lido Beach for a cultured beach day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. State parks, aquariums and museums often use dated tickets and last entry cutoffs - check before you go.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late winter and early spring bring the biggest events and fan zones. Hotels and restaurants in downtown St. Pete book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Warm with sea breezes. Pack sunscreen, hat and a light rain shell for quick pop up showers. Comfortable shoes are a must for long days on pavement and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Sections of Bayshore Drive, the marina and Pier approaches are fenced or rerouted. Follow your event map for gate locations and walking routes.
- Venue timing: Major museums and the Pier operate with timed entries on busy weekends. Early time slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, refillable water bottle, small seat pad and ear protection for children.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Downtown St. Petersburg, USA
Track Info
St. Petersburg Street Circuit - St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Temporary waterfront street course using downtown roads and a runway at Albert Whitted Airport - clockwise - IndyCar season opener staple
When was the track built?
St. Pete’s course is assembled each spring with temporary barriers and fencing through the waterfront grid, around the Mahaffey Theater and Dali Museum, and across a runway at Albert Whitted Airport. After the original 1985 1990 bayfront era and a brief 1996 1997 layout near Tropicana Field, the modern Grand Prix configuration debuted in 2003 and has been refined for sightlines, safety and pit lane operations.
When was its first race?
The city’s first race events ran in 1985 with SCCA Trans Am and Can Am. IndyCars arrived in 2003, and the Grand Prix has been the traditional IndyCar season opener in most years since 2005.
What's the circuit like?
- Runway launch: A long, wide start finish on the airport runway leads to heavy braking for Turn 1 and a quick change of direction through Turn 2.
- City rhythm: 90 degree corners along Bayshore Drive and Dan Wheldon Way create traction tests and wall proximity that punish tiny errors.
- Key overtakes: Turn 1 after the green flag and restarts, Turn 4 by the marina, and Turn 10 at the end of the back straight are prime passing zones.
- Surface and bumps: Concrete patches and manhole covers keep cars lively on braking. Grip ramps up across the weekend as rubber goes down.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar race lap record 1:00.6795. Poles often land in the high 58s to low 1:00s depending on conditions.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:00.6795 - Josef Newgarden, 2024 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
- CART/Champ Car (race lap): 1:01.825 - Sébastien Bourdais, 2003.
- American Le Mans Series LMP1 (race lap): 1:04.725 - Allan McNish, Audi R10 TDI, 2007.
- American Le Mans Series LMP2 (race lap): 1:04.340 - Ryan Briscoe, Porsche RS Spyder Evo, 2007.
- Indy NXT (race lap): 1:04.7732 - Dennis Hauger, 2025.
Why go?
A postcard setting with waterfront views, marina backdrops and grandstands close to the action. The runway start, Turn 1 funnels and late brakers into Turn 10 make for dramatic restarts, while downtown St. Pete’s food and beaches turn race week into a mini holiday.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Starts, restarts and bold divebombs off the runway straight with quick direction change into Turn 2.
- Marina complex around Turns 3 5: Great visuals along the waterfront and side by side squeezes.
- Turn 10 braking zone: End of the long back straight on Dan Wheldon Way - classic out braking and switchbacks.
- Final sector: Fast kinks and traction fights back onto the runway where photo finishes happen.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, strategy swings and the chequered flag with wide sightlines up the runway.
Not just IndyCar: support series at St. Pete
Indy NXT: The top rung of the ladder to IndyCar, often producing photo finishes into Turn 1.
USF Pro 2000 and USF2000: Junior formulas that showcase future stars threading the walls.
Sports cars and touring: The event has hosted American Le Mans Series, Pirelli World Challenge/GT4 America and regional cups on various editions.
Stadium Super Trucks: High-flying support with ramp jumps along the waterfront on selected years.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to St. Petersburg Street Circuit - Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
Best options are the PSTA SunRunner BRT to the downtown stops by Gate 5 area, the free event shuttles from Tropicana Field parking, downtown garages within a short walk, and rideshare to the designated drop zone on 2nd St S. The course uses city streets and a runway at Albert Whitted Airport, so expect road closures and plan extra time.
SunRunner BRT - easiest way into downtown
- Ride SunRunner to downtown: It connects St. Pete Beach and downtown St. Petersburg all week with frequent service. Nearest stops for the GP are by 6th Ave S and 3rd St S, a short walk to circuit gates.
- Gate proximity note: Event guidance highlights SunRunner access for the Gate 5 area - always match your stop to the current year’s festival map.
- Downtown Looper: The free Downtown Looper trolley circulates central St. Pete and links with SunRunner. Handy if your parking or hotel is a few blocks away.
Tip: After the checkered flag, platforms and stops peak. Grabbing food near Central Ave or waiting 15-30 minutes can shorten total travel time.
Tropicana Field parking + free shuttle
- Where to park: Use Lots 6 and 7 at Tropicana Field for event parking. It is cashless and priced per day.
- How the shuttle works: Continuous free shuttle service links Tropicana Field and the circuit festival area during race weekend. Look for the marked shuttle stops on the festival map.
Rideshare and taxis
- Designated zone: Set drop off and pickup to 2nd St S between 6th Ave S and 5th Ave S. Vehicles are restricted from entering closer streets during the event.
- Post-race tip: If demand surges, walk a few blocks west toward 3rd St S or to a SunRunner stop to clear the densest crowd before requesting.
Driving and downtown parking
- Use downtown garages if not at Tropicana: SouthCore Garage at 101 1st Ave S and Sundial Garage at 117 2nd St N are common choices. Expect special event rates.
- Walk in from garages: Allow 10-20 minutes via signed pedestrian routes to the nearest gate shown on the year’s festival map.
Walking from stops and garages
- SunRunner - Looper - downtown lots → gates: Typical walks are 8-20 minutes depending on your gate and crowd control. Use the pedestrian bridges and designated crossings shown on the festival map.
Airports and long distance travel
- Tampa International Airport TPA → downtown St. Pete: roughly 22 miles by road. Rideshare and taxi are straightforward via I-275.
- St. Pete - Clearwater PIE → downtown St. Pete: about 10-13 miles depending on route.
- Albert Whitted SPG: the general aviation airport sits inside the event footprint along the waterfront.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Gate 5 - south side near 5th Ave S: closest from SunRunner stops around 6th Ave S - 3rd St S and from the rideshare corridor on 2nd St S.
- Main festival entrances around Bayshore Dr - 5th Ave S - Dali Museum area: follow the 2025 festival map for the exact gate to your grandstand.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the city - organizer transport bulletins for any last minute street closures, shuttle hours or stop changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around St. Petersburg Street Circuit (St. Petersburg - Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, support series or a festival weekend, the downtown waterfront location puts you steps from museums, parks, beaches and family attractions - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights a short walk or ride away
- St. Pete Pier District: Splash pads, playgrounds, casual eateries and skyline views at the end of a scenic pier. Great for evening strolls after the on track program.
- Great Explorations Children's Museum: Hands on exhibits for younger kids next to Sunken Gardens.
- Sunken Gardens: Historic botanical garden with flamingos and shaded paths - a calm morning before sessions.
- Morean Arts Center - Glass Studio & Hot Shop: Glassblowing demos that wow kids and adults. Pair with the Chihuly Collection nearby.
- Tampa options: The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are strong half day picks if you have extra time.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Rescue focused aquarium known for rehabilitation work - good for mixed age groups.
Popular attractions may use timed entry on busy weekends - reserve ahead for Friday and Saturday.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- The Dalí Museum: Surrealist icon with bayside architecture. Book a timed ticket for peak afternoons.
- Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg: Compact waterfront museum that suits a 1.5 - 2 hour visit.
- Imagine Museum: Contemporary glass art in a manageable, family friendly format.
- James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art: Distinct collection in a modern downtown space - easy to pair with dinner nearby.
- American Stage and Mahaffey Theater: Check performance calendars for evening shows during race week.
Eat and drink like a local
- Beach Drive and Central Avenue: Patio dining, craft beer bars and dessert spots for post qualifying meals.
- Marina and Pier: Waterfront terraces for seafood and sunset views within a short walk of grandstands.
- Gulf flavors: Grouper sandwiches, shrimp baskets and key lime pie are race week staples.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday dinner slots fill fast - book ahead for groups and waterfront tables.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Bayshore and North Shore parks: Flat promenade walks and bike paths with bay views. Parts may be rerouted during the event.
- Fort De Soto Park: Award winning beaches, a historic fort and calm paddling waters - best early or late in the day.
- Kayak or SUP: Calm morning waters around Coffee Pot Bayou and the Vinoy Basin suit beginners.
- Beach time: St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille and Treasure Island for wide sands and gentle surf.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Clearwater Beach - 40 to 60 minutes. Pier 60 sunset scene, playgrounds and dolphin cruises.
- Tampa Riverwalk - 25 to 40 minutes. Waterfront stroll linking museums, parks and food halls.
- Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island - 50 to 70 minutes plus a short ferry. Nature trails and quiet beaches.
- Weeki Wachee Springs - About 75 to 90 minutes. Spring runs for kayaking and family friendly mermaid shows.
- Sarasota - 45 to 75 minutes. The Ringling Museum, St. Armands Circle and Lido Beach for a cultured beach day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. State parks, aquariums and museums often use dated tickets and last entry cutoffs - check before you go.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late winter and early spring bring the biggest events and fan zones. Hotels and restaurants in downtown St. Pete book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Warm with sea breezes. Pack sunscreen, hat and a light rain shell for quick pop up showers. Comfortable shoes are a must for long days on pavement and boardwalks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Access changes: Sections of Bayshore Drive, the marina and Pier approaches are fenced or rerouted. Follow your event map for gate locations and walking routes.
- Venue timing: Major museums and the Pier operate with timed entries on busy weekends. Early time slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, refillable water bottle, small seat pad and ear protection for children.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
