10 Things To Do at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas
Nestled near the heart of downtown Austin, Circuit of the Americas is the country’s premier destination for phenomenal motorsports and live entertainment. Circuit of the Americas Austin, TX spans across 1,500 acres, featuring a 3.41 mile racetrack designed to satisfy even the most hardcore racing fanatic. The track is home to America’s only Formula 1/MotoGP races, and has hosted prestigious events such as ESPN’s X Games, the Pirelli World Challenge, and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Read on to discover ten exciting things to do at this spectacular Austin Texas race track.
1. Camping
Circuit of the Americas blends the charm of outdoor camping with the thrills of racing and live, world-class entertainment. The campsite features amenities such as a general store, swimming pool with covered patio, children’s playground, dog park and more.
RV campers can enjoy access to 50/30-Amp hookups, and the site also provides complimentary access to WiFi and laundry services.
Click here to learn more about camping under the stars at COTA Camping.
2. COTA Karting
COTA”s karting grounds are among the best COTA address in the nation, providing exciting go-kart experiences for racers of every skill level. Visitors can challenge each other in adrenaline-filled races along the only Formula 1 track in America.
The track features 15 turns, with speeds of up to 55 MPH.
Click here to learn more about COTA Karting.
3. Live Events at Germania Insurance Amphitheater
The Amphitheater is a spacious, open-air concert venue located inside the Circuit, hosting headlining tours and music festivals throughout the year. The theater strives to operate sustainably, focusing on tactics such as recycling and composting, water conservation and careful monitoring of energy use.
Germania has hosted the likes of the Dave Matthews Band, Snoop Dog, Gwen Stefani and Fall Out Boy. Accessibility accommodations are available upon request, including interpreter services for the hard of hearing.
Click here to learn more about Austin’s Largest Outdoor Amphitheater.
4. Circuit of the Americas Observation Tower
Cota Austin TX 25-story observation tower offers thrilling bird’s-eye views of the motorsports arena, including all twenty turns of the main Circuit. Best place to sit at COTA. Views of the surrounding countryside and Austin’s famous skyline are also visible from the top including Bonnell Mountain.
The Tower can be accessed via two sets of stairs, or by a high-speed elevator. At the 230-foot summit, daring guests can venture out onto a portion of the floor built from structural laminated glass, providing heart-pounding views of the ground below.
Click here to learn more about the dramatic focal point for the Circuit of The Americas.
5. COTA Zipline
The COTA zipline sends guests soaring through the sky above the Circuit’s main racing track. The Austin zip line is open during standard COTA go-kart hours, and special ticket packages can be purchased for both the zipline and go-kart experience.
You’ll be able to purchase a ride on the Soaring Eagle that flies across the karting track and main straight of the Circuit of The Americas for $10 on-site or upgrade with a race for $5 per person.
Learn more about the COTA Zipline here.
6. Go for a Ride in a Radical SR3 RSX
If you’re looking to experience the thrill of driving a race car, the Radical SR3 RSX is a must-try activity at COTA. This high-performance sports car boasts a top speed of 155 mph and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
At COTA, you can take a ride as a passenger or drive the car yourself with the help of a professional driving coach. Either way, you’ll enjoy an adrenaline-fueled experience on the track.
Learn more about track-rental services here.
7. Take a Tour of the COTA Track
Want to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Circuit of the Americas? Consider taking a guided tour of the track.
You’ll learn about the history of the facility, the different track configurations, and see iconic spots like Turn 1 and the famous observation tower up close. Tours are available on race days and non-race days, so you can experience COTA regardless of the time of year.
To learn more about guided COTA tours click here.
8. Try Your Hand at Driving a Porsche
If you’ve always dreamed of driving a Porsche, here’s your chance. COTA offers a Porsche program where you can get behind the wheel of one of several models, including the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and take it for a spin on the track.
You’ll receive instruction from professional driving coaches and get a taste of what it’s like to handle one of the world’s most iconic sports cars.
Learn more about Track Experiences here.
9. Take a Helicopter Tour
Want to see COTA from a new perspective? Consider taking a helicopter tour of the facility.
You’ll get to see the track, observation tower, and surrounding countryside from high above, giving you a bird’s eye view of one of the world’s most iconic racing destinations. Helicopter tours are available on selected dates, so be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.
Learn more about Circuit of the Americas Helicopter Tours here.
10. COTALAND
Due to open in 2023 this amusement park is sure to be a hit. With over 25 rides including 5 rollercoasters it’ll provide a truly thrilling experience. This large amusement park will also offer something for families that want another reason to visit COTA.
Matt Hughey, Sr. Manager of COTA Karting and COTALAND has ensured the public that they will have some of the best rides around, including the Palindrome.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a racing fan or just looking for a unique experience the Circuit of Americas Austin TX has something for everyone. From high-speed rides in sports cars to guided tours and team-building activities, COTA offers a range of exciting activities that are sure to leave you with lasting memories. All those activities are going to build a healthy appetite and luckily Circuit of the Americas food options aim to satisfy that need. So why not plan your visit to the Circuit of the Americas today and see what all the hype is about!
What’s your favorite thing to do at Circuit of the Americas? Let us know in the comments!
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