How To Explore Miami's F1 Scene During Race Weekend

Areas of Miami to see during F1 weekend

The F1 Miami Grand Prix circuit is located inside the Hard Rock Stadium. That makes it easy to make the most of the city when you’re not busy taking in all of the racing action.

Downtown Miami

20-minute drive to the stadium without traffic

If you want to be in close proximity to the racetrack and the major points of interest in the city, consider staying in Downtown Miami. It’s convenient not just because of the many lodging options and shopping opportunities, but also because of its closeness to the Port of Miami.

Located in the heart of Downtown Miami, The Elser Hotel is one of Miami’s newest gems. The Elser gives guests a front row view of Biscayne Bay, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and exclusive offers if you’re staying over three nights.

Miami Beach

30-minute drive to the stadium without traffic

This area of Miami is where you want to stay for a luxurious experience. The region is well-known for the luxurious hotels, hip restaurants, and stunning beaches that can be found here. During F1 weekend, you’ll find that Miami Beach is where the party comes alive. An amazing accommodation suggestion is the SLS South Beach. Designed by French Architect and Designer, Phillipe Starck and iconic rock star Lenny Kravitz, this hotel will give you everything you need and more.

The SLS South Beach has four on-property dining concepts, including The Bazaar (Latin) and Katsuya (Japanese); two outdoor pools; beach access; and is tucked on Collins Avenue, giving you a VIP pass to the best parts of South Beach. Bear in mind that it is slightly further away from the Hard Rock Stadium than it is from the downtown area of Miami.

Wynwood

20-minute drive to stadium without traffic

If you’re staying in Wynwood, you’re capturing an area of Miami that is full of life and has become a tourist hotspot in recent years. Anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind cultural experience should definitely pay a visit to this area, which is famous for its vibrant street art, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops. A great hotel recommendation is the Arlo Wynwood. It fuses luxury and boutique style as the first hotel to be opened in this artsy district. Enjoy doing yoga or a dance workout, catching some unique exhibits, or hanging out at the rooftop pool.

What to do during race weekend

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F1 Miami is not short of options to have a good time. Here are some of the best things to do during race weekend, and if you’re staying for longer, there’s plenty of Miami attractions and Miami parks that are worth your time (and don’t miss the opportunity to explore Miami’s Little Havana).

For those who care just as much about the food

Miami is known for its eclectic flavors, and F1 weekend has no shortage of moments where you can play with your palate.

• American Express presents Carbone Beach (May 4 through 7): This four-night supper club features Italian-American dishes by Chef Mario Carbone and live performances.
• Once Upon A Kitchen (May 5): Brought to you by the international experience agency GR8, this $6,000 culinary activation is one of the most exclusive dining events for F1 Miami weekend. For one night only, experience some of the greatest culinary artists, including Massimo Bottura, Juan Manuel Barrientos, Bernardo Paladini, Dr. Alex Ott allows you to enjoy crafted cocktails, fine-dining, and live music.
• On-site circuit cuisine: In the stadium, circuit offers fans everything from barbecue and American food classics to ice cream, snow cones, and frozen yogurt. You can check out all the dining options and which turns and zones they’re located on the F1 Miami Grand Prix app.

For race enthusiasts

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If you’re headed to F1 Miami Grand Prix as an enthusiast and looking for all things fast and furious, The Racing Fan Fest, the largest off-track experience in the city, is where you want to go. The fan fest is located in Wynwood and features activations such as the Red Bull Fan Zone which will include race simulators, an N16 racing celebrity Esports tournament, pit stop challenge, official team memorabilia from Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri, and more. There will also be live music, virtual reality, former cars that have hit the race tracks, and more from brands like ESPN and Oakley. And if you can’t make it to the track, feel free to pull up to The Racing Fan Fest where they will have a weekend watch party all weekend long.

The fan fest is open May 5 and 6 from 4 PM to 3 AM and May 6 and 7 from noon until 3 AM. You can RSVP and get a free souvenir cup here.

For people who came for the party

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For those just looking for a good time, F1 Miami weekend isn’t going to disappoint.

The MAXIM Race Weekend Party will be held on May 5. The McLaren Race House will take place from May 5 to 7 and is a 3-day pass experience. Tickets include an exclusive VIP block party in Miami’s Art District to celebrate McLaren’s 60th Anniversary. BleauLive is brought to you by the Fontainebleau on May 6 and 7 and features acts like Martin Garrix, Kaskade, and Ludacris.

You don’t have to leave the circuit to continue having a good time at Hard Rock Beach club. Included in your on-site track views will be live performances, beachy vibes with pools and day bed rentals, and more. The experience includes two guests over 21.

Making the most of Miami

For other dining options in the city, Miami has a plethora of places to eat, including many that Miami’s own chefs recommend. I highly recommend Sugar, a rooftop restaurant and lounge that is for guests 21 and up after 6 PM. The menu offers Asian-inspired options, craft cocktails, and an upscale party vibe with a DJ. You can make reservations here.

For all things F1 Miami Grand Prix, you can download the app for Android and iOS or head to the FAQs page where you can find everything from getting your tickets, where to park and how to get to the stadium, what items and bags are prohibited, and much more.