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Since 2012, the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, has hosted the last word in international racing: Formula 1. However, COTA is more than a venue for the US Grand Prix; it’s a dynamic track that permits everything from driving experiences to motorcycle racing and concerts. 

The Circuit of the Americas hosts the Formula 1 US Grand Prix, but it does a lot more than that

Granted, the Circuit of the Americas is one of three options for American Formula 1 fans to take in a race without producing a passport. The other two are the Miami GP in Florida and the Las Vegas GP in Nevada.

Formula 1 participation is the primary reason for COTA’s existence. However, depending on when you visit, the racing circuit hosts any number of incredible events. MotoGP pilots take to the track every year. Two-wheeled daredevils like Marc Márquez, Valentino Rossi, and Francesco Bagnaia have conquered the track for years. Like the US Grand Grix, MotoGP is a multiple-day experience.  

MotoGP racers crest a hill at the Circuit of the Americas.
MotoGP at COTA | Christian Pondella, Getty Images

What’s more, NASCAR is returning to Austin for “NASCAR at COTA” in 2024. The NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will hit COTA in March.

Beyond professional racing, several groups host track days on COTA’s dynamic corners and impressive elevation changes. Everything from the Ferrari Challenge NA group to weekend warrior Mazda MX-5 Miata fan clubs attack the circuit’s corners. 

COTA hosts one of the largest Cars and Coffee events in America

Communities across the country love Cars and Coffee. The events allow car enthusiasts to showcase their treasures in a relaxed, (typically) friendly environment. Unlike segment or model-specific shows, owners can bring classic Jaguars and park in the same lot as a twin-turbocharged Chevrolet Corvette C7.

Fortunately for the Central Texas car culture, the Circuit of the Americas hosts a monthly Cars and Coffee event. However, it’s no coffee shop parking lot; it’s hundreds, sometimes thousands of cars across every conceivable style. 

A set of Ferrari Spyders at COTA during an off-US Grand Prix weekend.
Ferrari Spyders at a COTA Cars and Coffee | Erik Sherman, MotorBiscuit

Moreover, the property includes an amphitheater. And it’s not just racing drivers and pit crews playing in their garage bands, either. COTA’s concert space has hosted acts like Taylor Swift, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Queen.

Any petrolhead living or visiting Central Texas might want to consider a pilgrimage to the Circuit of the Americas and its 20 adrenaline-pumping corners.

Source: COTA