What is the Circuit of the Americas and where is it located?

The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is a world-class racing and entertainment venue set on 1,500 acres in the rolling hills just outside downtown Austin, Texas. It was the first circuit in the United States purpose-built for Formula One.

How large is the capacity and track at the venue?

The venue has an overall capacity of 120,000 people. The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix circuit itself is 5.513 kilometers long.

When did the venue open and who designed it?

The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke in collaboration with the American architectural firm HKS. Construction began on December 31, 2010, and the track was officially opened on October 21, 2012, by Mario Andretti.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Circuit of the Americas in Austin

Q: What kind of events and attractions are hosted at the venue?

The venue hosts major racing, action sports, and music events. It is home to Formula 1, MotoGP, COTA Karting, and the Germania Insurance Amphitheater, which is an open-air amphitheater that can hold 14,000 people for concerts.

Circuit of the Americas

Experience the thrill of the Circuit of the Americas, a world-class 1,500-acre racing and entertainment complex just outside Austin. As the USA's first purpose-built Formula One track, it hosts premier motorsports, concerts, and action sports.

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What to know

Spanning 1,500 acres in the scenic rolling hills just outside downtown Austin, Texas, the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is a premier destination for world-class motorsports and entertainment. Opened on October 21, 2012, with legendary driver Mario Andretti officially opening the track, COTA made history as the very first circuit in the United States purpose-built specifically for Formula One racing. The impressive 5.513-kilometer track was designed by renowned architect Hermann Tilke in collaboration with the American architectural firm HKS. Construction on this massive facility originally began on December 31, 2010. Today, the entire venue boasts an overall capacity of 120,000 spectators, drawing massive crowds from all over the globe. Since its inaugural year in 2012, the track has served as the proud host of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, bringing elite international racing to Texas. Beyond Formula One, this expansive multi-purpose facility has hosted a diverse array of major racing, action sports, and music events. It is the official home to MotoGP, COTA Karting, and the Germania Insurance Amphitheater—a spectacular open-air music venue that can accommodate up to 14,000 people for concerts. Additionally, the venue includes an adjoining soccer stadium on the property that seats 5,000 fans. Whether you are visiting to experience the high-speed roar of engines, test your skills on the karting track, or enjoy a live musical performance under the Texas stars, this expansive complex stands as a testament to Austin's vibrant, modern entertainment scene.

Visitor tips

Plan your visit around major events like Formula 1 or MotoGP races, which have been hosted here since 2012.
Check the concert schedule for the Germania Insurance Amphitheater, an open-air venue that holds 14,000 people.
Try COTA Karting on-site if you want to experience driving at this famous racing destination.
Prepare for extensive walking across the massive 1,500-acre property.

Nearby context

Situated in the scenic rolling hills just outside downtown Austin, the Circuit of the Americas occupies a massive 1,500-acre footprint. While it feels worlds away from the bustling urban core, its location provides a dramatic backdrop of Texas landscape for high-speed racing and major entertainment events. It serves as a sprawling anchor for sports and tourism in the greater Austin area.

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