Every October, Austin welcomes visitors from around the world for the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. In 2026, the event takes place October 23–25, bringing racing, entertainment, and plenty of activity throughout the city.
But there’s much more to explore beyond the racetrack. If you’re looking for things to do in Austin during race weekend, consider adding live music, local attractions, outdoor activities, and memorable dining experiences to your itinerary.
Here are six ways to enjoy Austin while you’re in town.
1. Experience the Racing at Circuit of the Americas
The main event takes place at Circuit of the Americas, commonly known as COTA, located southeast of Downtown Austin.
Visitors attending the United States Grand Prix can experience the racing atmosphere and explore the entertainment available throughout the venue.
For event schedules, transportation information, and visitor guidelines, consult the official Circuit of the Americas website.
Planning tip: Allow extra time for transportation, especially when traveling between the racetrack and Downtown Austin.
2. Explore Austin’s Live Music Scene
Austin’s reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World makes it a natural destination for visitors looking for entertainment beyond sporting events.
Downtown Austin offers numerous music venues, particularly around Sixth Street and the Red River Cultural District.
South Congress Avenue is another popular area for visitors interested in shopping, dining, and exploring Austin’s local culture.
Whether you prefer a lively night out or a relaxed evening listening to music, checking local performance schedules can help you discover something worth experiencing.
3. Discover Austin’s Restaurant Scene
Dining is an important part of any Austin itinerary, especially when traveling with friends, family, or coworkers.
The city offers everything from Texas barbecue and casual neighborhood restaurants to international cuisine and traditional steakhouses.
For visitors interested in Brazilian cuisine, Estância Brazilian Steakhouse in Austin offers the Full Churrasco Experience, featuring fire-roasted meats carved tableside by Brazilian gauchos.
Guests can explore a variety of cuts throughout the meal, accompanied by the Gourmet Salad Bar and traditional Brazilian sides.
Unlike ordering a single steak entrée, tableside churrasco allows diners to try different selections at their own pace.
Explore the Estância Austin dinner menu to learn more about the experience.
4. Enjoy Austin’s Outdoor Attractions
Looking for things to do in Austin during race weekend that don’t involve crowds or nightlife?
Austin has several outdoor destinations worth visiting, particularly during the cooler fall months.
Lady Bird Lake offers waterfront views, walking and cycling trails, and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors near Downtown Austin.
Zilker Metropolitan Park provides open green space and views of the city skyline.
For visitors interested in sightseeing, the Texas State Capitol is another recognizable Austin landmark with opportunities to explore Texas history and architecture.
These attractions can be especially appealing if you’re extending your visit beyond the main racing events.
5. Plan a Dinner with Friends or Family
Traveling with a group often means coordinating different preferences, schedules, and appetites.
When choosing a restaurant for a group dinner in Austin, consider whether the menu offers variety and whether the restaurant can accommodate your party size.
At Estância Austin, the Full Churrasco Experience provides a shared dining format where guests can select from different fire-roasted meats throughout the meal.
The Gourmet Salad Bar offers additional variety, making it easier for guests to build plates around their preferences.
For larger gatherings, explore group dining at Estância Austin and consider planning ahead.
6. Explore Austin’s Neighborhoods
One of the easiest ways to experience Austin is to spend time exploring its neighborhoods.
South Congress is known for local boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and views of the Texas State Capitol.
Downtown Austin offers entertainment, nightlife, and access to waterfront trails.
East Austin features an evolving mix of restaurants, coffee shops, art, and neighborhood gathering places.
If you’re visiting for several days, exploring different areas can help you experience more of the city beyond its major attractions.
Where Should You Eat During Race Weekend in Austin?
With visitors arriving from across the country and around the world, restaurants can become an important part of planning a weekend itinerary.
For those interested in a traditional Brazilian steakhouse experience, Estância Austin offers tableside churrasco, a Gourmet Salad Bar, and a setting suited to date nights, family dinners, and group gatherings.
You can explore Estância on Instagram for a closer look at the restaurant’s food and dining experience.
For directions and location details, find Estância Austin on Google Maps.
Make the Most of Your Austin Visit
From racing and live music to outdoor attractions and local dining, there are plenty of things to do in Austin during race weekend.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city, planning a few experiences beyond the racetrack can make your stay more memorable.
If Brazilian churrasco is on your list, explore Estância Austin’s dining experience and reserve your table when planning your visit.
