The Circuit of the Americas, widely known as COTA, is far more than a racetrack. Located just outside Austin, Texas, this world-class motorsport venue has become a must-visit destination for racing fans, architecture enthusiasts, and experiential travelers alike.
Designed specifically for Formula 1, COTA combines technical track design, dramatic elevation changes, and a festival-style atmosphere that makes it one of the most engaging racing venues in the world. Whether you are attending the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, MotoGP, or simply exploring Austin as a travel destination, COTA offers experiences that go well beyond watching cars on track.
Opened in 2012, Circuit of the Americas was the first purpose-built Formula 1 circuit in the United States. Its creation marked a turning point for American motorsport tourism, placing Austin firmly on the global racing map. The track layout was inspired by iconic corners from legendary circuits such as Silverstone, Suzuka, and Hockenheim, yet it remains uniquely American in scale and atmosphere. Today, COTA hosts not only Formula 1 and MotoGP, but also sports car racing, concerts, cycling events, and community programs, making it a year-round attraction. Unlike some historic European circuits, COTA does not operate daily public tours year-round. However, guided and semi-guided experiences are available during specific periods, primarily tied to major race weekends or special events.
Track Walks
One of the most memorable fan experiences at COTA is the track walk. Offered at specific times (often pre-event), this allows fans to:
During major events, COTA transforms into a festival-style motorsport park, featuring: Driver interviews and Q&A sessions, Simulator experiences, Motorsport exhibitions, Live music stages, Food trucks showcasing Texas cuisine.
These areas act as informal guided experiences, offering context, storytelling, and access that go far beyond traditional grandstand seating.
When to Visit
Getting There
Austin itself is a major travel draw, and combining the circuit with city experiences creates a well-rounded itinerary. Enjoy live music on Sixth Street, experience BBQ culture and Tex-Mex dining, go for walks or kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, or visit contemporary art and design museums.
During the first free practice session of the 2015 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas, a stray dog suddenly ran onto the track. The session was immediately red-flagged (stopped) for about 15 minutes as marshals and animal control worked to safely catch the dog. Riders, including Maverick Viñales and Stefan Bradl, had to navigate around the pup on a wet track. The 1-year-old Shiba Inu mix was taken to the Austin Animal Center, where he was officially named “Moto“. Within about ten days of his track debut, Moto was adopted by a new family. Some sources even claim he was adopted by a track employee. He became an instant viral sensation, with fans joking that he had a better “lean angle” in the corners than some of the professional riders.
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