COTA Transforms Austin Race Venue into Theme Park

Two swimming pools now sit on the grassy banks of the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, marking the latest phase in the venue's transformation from a pure racing facility into a multi-use entertainment destination.

Formula 1 returned to the track this weekend for its annual United States Grand Prix. The event is one of three US races on the calendar, but it stands apart from Miami and Las Vegas because it uses a permanent circuit rather than temporary street layouts.

The expansion includes a cable car that connects the main paddock building to new hospitality structures on the elevated terrain. These areas previously consisted of open grassy slopes. The new development is part of a diversification strategy that blends theme park amenities with traditional motorsport facilities.

Roller coasters and other amusement rides now punctuate the skyline along the track's fringes. Kevin Schwanz, a former motorcycle racer, designed the original track layout. His design incorporates varying corner speeds, heavy braking zones, and significant elevation changes that distinguish it from street circuits built against concrete walls.

The venue has changed since the first US Grand Prix in 2012. The site now hosts the Lone Star Le Mans races in September alongside F1 events. The addition of pools and rides reflects a shift toward year-round revenue sources beyond race days.