Are you planning a trip to Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas? This ultimate racing and entertainment destination features plenty of show-stopping events. But, what is the bag policy at Circuit of the Americas and where can you stay nearby? Read on to find out!
About Circuit of The Americas
Opened in 2012, the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) features a 3.426-mile (5.514 km) motor racing track. The maximum capacity for the venue is 150,000 people and there are plenty of on-site food and beverage options, ranging from Tex-Mex and BBQ to Thai and vegetarian. Motorsport events held at the venue include:
- Formula One U.S. Grand Prix
- NASCAR’s Texas Grand Prix
- Grand Prix of the Americas
- MotorGP
- IndyCar Classic
The COTA grounds also include an open-air concert venue recently renamed to the Germania Insurance Amphitheater. It accommodates up to 14,000 people. Additionally, the Bold Stadium soccer field opened in 2019 with stadium seats for 5,000 people.
Circuit of The Americas Bag Policy
Circuit of The Americas security screen all bags entering the venue. Any bags or parcels that are larger than 12 x 12 x 20 inches are not allowed. Other prohibited items at motorsport events include:
- Coolers, thermoses, or ice chests
- Glass containers
- Skateboards and skates
- Drones
- Camera stabilizing equipment
- Items that are a safety hazard
As of 2020, visitors to the on-site Germania Insurance Amphitheater must have clear bags unless they are smaller than 4.5 x 6.5 inches. No bags larger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches will be allowed. The venue also prohibits blankets and lawn chairs larger than 30 x 60 inches.
Luggage Storage Near Circuit of The Americas
Don’t let your luggage weigh you down when you want to enjoy an event at the Circuit of The Americas, especially if you aren’t driving there. Stasher offers safe, affordable, and fully insured luggage storage. Search on Stasher for locations!
Circuit of The Americas Transportation
Although most people drive when visiting the Circuit of The Americas, you can take public transportation. Bus lines that pass near the venue include lines 311, 486, 1, 7, and 201. The two nearest bus stations are:
- 1706 Stassney/Ih 35 – 3-minute walk
- Nelms/Bluff Springs – 15-minute walk
When driving, there is significant on-site parking that you can pre-purchase online, including recommendations on parking lot selection based on your ticket or seat location. The venue also has on-site shuttle services that take you to entrance points from various parking lots. There are also designated drop-off locations if you take a taxi or ride-share service.
Hotels Near Circuit of The Americas
While you can camp at the venue during race weekends or concerts, we understand that isn’t the ideal experience for everyone. For those wanting a nearby hotel to stay in Austin, Texas, here are 3 top choices.
Hyatt Place Austin Airport – Closet
There aren’t any hotels within walking distance to COTA but the hotels by the airport, such as the Hyatt Place, are the closest at a distance of 5.6 miles away. This 3-star hotel has an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center.
Colton House Hotel – Highly Rated
The closest 4-star hotel to COTA may be 9.7 miles away, but the Colton House Hotel is worth the 20-minute drive. Room options include presidential suites and 3-bedroom luxury suites. You can also expect free WiFi, a garden, library, on-site lounge, and seasonal outdoor pool.
Motel 6 – Budget Option
Consider the Airport Motel 6 hotel that’s 6.6 miles from COTA if you are looking for a budget stay. This location also receives very good reviews with clean rooms, free WiFi, free parking, and a pet-friendly environment.
