The third annual Miami Formula One Grand Prix turns some of the most scenic parts of the city into a race track for the fastest cars ever build. Here’s all you need to know.
Glamor, Miami and the most prestigious elite auto race in the world. It can only be the Miami Formula One Grand Prix, and it’s coming to town on Sunday, May 5. If you’re one of the many visitors decamping to the Magic City to see star drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Charles Leclerc speed around the Miami International Autodrome, you’re not alone. Here’s our guide to everything you need to know
Taking The Scenic Route
The event will actually happen over the first weekend in May, with practice on Friday and qualifying on Saturday before the Grand Prix on Sunday. The Autodrome track is 3.363 miles long and features 19 corners, with an anticipated average speed of around 140 mph (230 km/h). It wraps around the Hard Rock Cafe in Miami Gardens and was specifically designed for the F1 races.
Spectators are catered to by 11 grandstands on the course and various luxury hospitality tents in the striking Marina area. There’s plenty of room to walk around with a Campus Pass, which offers access to the Marina area, Team Village, and other trackside viewing areas.
Some Background
The inaugural Formula 1 Miami event occurred in 2022 and was attended by 250,000 fans. The following year, that number rose to 270,000. There’s no reason to believe that the same amount, if not more, of tickets will be sold this year. Miami and the F1 race are like a glamorous showbiz couple celebrating their third wedding anniversary. It’s new, exciting, and fresh, and the world can’t get enough.
Party While Watching the Race
If watching cars loop around a track at high speed isn’t your idea of fun, the Marina Grandstand might be the best place to hang out. It offers unlimited access to the Marina area, which is packed with food, cocktails, and large screens showing the race. Each grandstand will also boast its own fan zone, catered to by local restaurants, and plenty to drink. Campus Pass holders will also have access to the Marina area, though getting onto one of the yachts parked there is not included
- The Paddock Club: If you’re a high-rolling V.I.P., there’s only one place to be — the Paddock Club. Now upgraded, it offers 6,000 exclusive guests the chance to view the pit lane and the Start/Finish Line.
- The 72 Club: Best known as a hangout for Miami Dolphins football games, it has been transformed specifically for the event.
- The M.I.A. Hospitality Club and Village: These much loved venues return, as do the premium seats in the Veranda Club, which offer a pristine viewing position.
Restaurants
With over a quarter of a million people pouring into Miami Beach for the F1 Grand Prix, restaurants are sure to do a bustling trade. The only question many visitors will have in Miami — a city filled with great dining options — is where to eat.
If you happen to be staying at the Fontainebleau, you won’t have to look too far. Upscale choices include the renowned Hakkasan, Mirabella, and Prime 54, and there is a string of casual dining options such as La Côte, Vida, Blade, and Arcadia Grill.
If you want to taste authentic Latin and Caribbean cuisine, head to Little Havana or Little Haiti for classic, flavor-packed sandwiches and stews, or Wynwood’s Cerveceria La Tropical, a craft brewery that offers an upscale take on Latin/Caribbean cuisine from celebrated local Chef Cindy Hutson.
If you’re after some Instagram-friendly shots while you’re in the city, head to the Design District and visit Swan & Bar Bevy, co-owned by music producer/singer and fashion exec Pharrell Williams restaurateur David Grutman.
Visit our guide on more essential Miami restaurants to visit during the F1 Grand Prix here.
Summary
Because of its unique coastal location and vibrant Latin culture, Miami is a city that knows how to have a good time. Hosting the world-famous F1 Grand Prix is a perfect fit. The city comes ready-equipped with beaches, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and more. It also has some of the best hotels in the world. However, if you’re looking for top-notch accommodation with a group of friends or family to watch the Grand Prix, may we humbly suggest one of M.A.K.’s luxury suites at the Fontainebleau — it’s the perfect place to unwind after tearing around the city before watching the world’s ultimate racing event.
