Home of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. A world-class 3.4-mile circuit with 20 turns and dramatic elevation changes inspired by classic circuits worldwide.
Circuit of the Americas is a permanent racing circuit in Austin, Texas. The lap measures 5.514 km (3.426 miles) across 20 corners, run anti-clockwise. Among its named corners are Turn 1 (Big Red), The Esses and The Bobby Pin.
It opened in 2012 and holds FIA Grade 1 licensing. Series racing here include Formula 1, MotoGP, WEC, IndyCar and Road Course. Capacity is around 120,000 spectators.
The project was announced in July 2010: around 900 acres of undeveloped land outside Austin, backed by the businessman Red McCombs, to build the first circuit in the United States purpose-designed for Formula 1. The layout came from promoter Tavo Hellmund and Kevin Schwantz, the 1993 500cc world champion, working with Hermann Tilke.
What they drew borrows openly from elsewhere — the Esses echo Silverstone's Maggotts-Becketts sequence, and other corners nod to Hockenheim and Istanbul — but the site gave it something of its own: 133 feet of elevation change, including a first corner that climbs steeply to a blind crest. The track opened on 21 October 2012 and held the United States Grand Prix on 18 November, and has since added MotoGP and IMSA.
7 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
HOTEL · $$ · 28.5 km from circuit
Stylish SoCo hotel with a rooftop pool and walkable access to Austin's best live music and dining. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 27 minutes (17.7 miles). Facilities include restaurant, bar, and gym.
Visit websiteBOUTIQUE · $ · 29.1 km from circuit
Retro-chic motel with a kidney-shaped pool on South Congress, a fun and affordable race weekend base. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 29 minutes (18.1 miles).
Visit websiteBOUTIQUE · $$$ · 29.5 km from circuit
Rock-and-roll luxury hideaway named after the patron saint of music, a favourite of F1 paddock insiders visiting Austin. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 26 minutes (18.3 miles). Facilities include pool, lounge, and gardens.
Visit websiteHOTEL · $$ · 30.9 km from circuit
Austin's most iconic historic hotel on 6th Street, blending Texan grandeur with modern luxury. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 28 minutes (19.2 miles). Facilities include bar, restaurant, and spa.
Visit websiteBOUTIQUE · $$ · 30.9 km from circuit
Mid-century modern boutique hotel on South Congress, 31 minutes from COTA with a legendary pool scene on race weekends. Facilities include restaurant and bar.
Visit websiteHOTEL · 4 stars · $$ · 44.7 km from circuit
Modern hotel in the Domain district with easy highway access to Circuit of the Americas. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 36 minutes (27.8 miles). Facilities include pool, bar, and fitness center.
Visit websiteRESORT · $$$ · 66.5 km from circuit
Tranquil lakeside spa resort offering the ultimate post-race recovery experience. The drive to Circuit of the Americas takes about 56 minutes (41.3 miles). Facilities include gardens.
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) — approximately 13 km from the circuit
Official COTA shuttles run throughout race weekend from downtown Waterloo Park and the Travis County Expo Center, using dedicated bus lanes to drop off near the Grand Plaza gates. Ten car parks ring the circuit and passes are best bought in advance. Austin-Bergstrom airport is a 10-15 minute drive away.
Hotels near Circuit of the Americas typically sell out 3-6 months before major race weekends, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during race weekends, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Austin centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Circuit of the Americas offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Circuit of the Americas for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Austin, Texas. The circuit holds up to 120,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Circuit of the Americas is located in Austin, Texas. The nearest airport (AUS) is approximately 13 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 7 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during major race weekends at Circuit of the Americas, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Booking 3-6 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Circuit of the Americas provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 3-6 months before the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.