Under the Texas sun, the air hums with engines, music and heat. Fans pour into the Circuit of the Americas — better known as COTA — for one of the biggest racing weekends of the year. It’s a mix of speed, spectacle and survival.
Visiting COTA is both exhilarating and exhausting. Between the heat, the crowds and the miles of walking, it’s as much a test of preparation as it is of passion. Whether you’re visiting for Formula One, MotoGP or a concert, a few simple steps can make the difference between simply surviving the weekend and enjoying it.
The Track and the Texas Heat
Located just southeast of downtown Austin, the 3.4-mile COTA winds through open terrain, with steep climbs, wide corners and sweeping views. Its signature Turn 1 — a sharp, uphill left — is as punishing for fans climbing the hill as it is for the drivers racing it. It also offers one of the most popular views at the start of a race.
October in Austin brings warm days and gusty winds that offer limited relief. With little shade and long walks between sections, the weather becomes part of the challenge. First-time visitors often underestimate how physically demanding a full race weekend can be.
What to Pack — and What to Skip
Smart packing makes all the difference. Bring empty water bottles, refill stations are available throughout the venue — and drink more water than you think you’ll need. Apply sunscreen often, even if you don’t feel burned yet. Add electrolyte packets, wet wipes, tissues, earplugs and a portable charger to your bag, along with a few basic medications such as allergy or pain relief pills. These small items can make the difference between feeling grimy and exhausted or just pleasantly tired at the end of the day.
Fans who come prepared last longer in the general admission lawns and grandstands —those who don’t often end up spending half the afternoon searching for shade or first aid.
COTA is cashless, so bring a card or tap payment method. Meals typically range from $12 to $30, and food is essential to staying energized throughout the day.
Getting There and Getting Around
Traffic around COTA can back up quickly, especially before major sessions. Gates open early, and it’s best to arrive as soon as possible — not only for parking but also for prime viewing spots. Some die-hard fans line up at the main entrance hours before it opens.
Once inside, expect to walk. The Circuit’s layout means even short trips between lawns, restrooms, fan zones and food vendors can add up to six to eight miles a day. Comfortable shoes are essential, and pacing yourself is key.
Prepare Physically
A weekend at COTA can take a toll. Spending the day out in the sun, walking for miles and standing in crowds while engines roar can leave anyone drained. Getting outside in the weeks before the trip, staying hydrated and building endurance can make a noticeable difference — especially if you’re attending the full three-day Formula One weekend. Without preparation, that first day can be overwhelming.
Scheduling
COTA’s event schedule changes often. Driver Q&As, autograph sessions and fan activities are sometimes announced only a day in advance. For fans eager to meet drivers, grab front-row spots or score limited-edition merchandise, early arrival is vital.
If you’re attending with a general admission ticket, plan your route. Some of the best viewing areas — especially near Turns 1 and 15 — fill up fast.
A Weekend Worth the Effort
By Sunday afternoon, the exhaustion is absolute. You’ve walked miles, endured the Texas heat and waited in lines that felt endless. But when the lights go out and the engines roar, every bit of effort feels worth it.
With “Future COTALand” under construction, fans must walk through a dusty zone to reach the coveted seats at Turn 1. Reapplying sunscreen can feel pointless when the wind blows dust and grass over your skin, but though you may leave dusty, sweaty and sunburned, you don’t look as bad as you think. The photos will look incredible — and the memories are even better.
Take care of yourself, drink plenty of water, and remember to look up once in a while to take in the view.
Because at the Circuit of the Americas, it’s not just about the race. It’s about the experience — one that challenges you, thrills you and stays with you long after the checkered flag.
