United States GP Travel Guide

Austin is 8,046km (5,000 miles) from the McLaren Technology Centre.

Getting there

After the Japanese Grand Prix the cars made a quick pitstop at the McLaren Technology Centre, before being flown to Austin. Team personnel flew back to the UK as well, before heading to Austin, to which there are both direct and indirect flights.

Biggest travel headache?

Visas. Every member of the team needs an ESTA for the USA, which increases the amount of paperwork for the travel department. But this race is fairly straightforward once on the ground in Austin. Team members are split between two Hiltons and a Doubletree by Hilton.

Surprising fact

Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. During late summer bat numbers peak at 1.5 million.

Local speciality

Austin is as cosmopolitan as it gets in Texas, with food staples from around the world. But if you want to try a local speciality, look no further than Texas-style barbecue – beef cooked on a wood-based barbecue and eaten with lots of spices and sauces. Texas toast is a delicious side dish. it’s grilled white bread with butter and garlic.

When in Rome…

If you love racing, then why not drive from COTA to the Texas Motor Speedway? It’s located 290 km/180 miles away in Fort Worth and hosts both NASCAR and IndyCar events. If you don’t want to travel quite as far, but you’re into tech, then head to the Space Centre in Houston.

Weather

The temperature swing is quite extreme at this time of year. There are cold nights, when the temperature regularly drops into single figures, and warm days of up to 25 degrees Celsius.

Top tips from our local Hilton Concierge

Your inside information on Austin, Texas. Brought to you by our partner, Hilton.

Which location sums up the Austin lifestyle best?
Rainey street district is one of the best places to capture a glimpse the local culture. An old neighbourhood that has been up converted into indie bars and fabulous restaurants really showcases what Austin is all about.

Where is your favourite place in Austin and why?
One of my favourite place would have to be Laguna Gloria. It is an art museum right outside of the immediate downtown area with sprawling gardens and new installations everyday by some of the artist with residence there.

What is your top tip for people visiting Austin?
It’s a must to take a dip in one of our natural swimming holes like Barton Creek, it’s kept naturally at a cool 68 degrees all year round.

What is the must have souvenir to take away with you and where can you get it?
Everyone needs a good pair of boots or a cowboy hat from Allen’s boots on South Congress, they are good for any occasion, especially around here.

Describe Austin in 3 words.
Artistic, Musical, and Eclectic.

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LAT_56 partnership announced

The partnership will see the team carrying LAT_56 luggage from 2018 and beyond

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