Fans will be able to experience the thrills of Formula 1 racing throughout the year when Grand Prix Plaza opens May 2 just east of the Las Vegas Strip.
The Plaza will be home to three ticketed attractions across 100,000 square feet, which officials say is Formula 1's largest and most dynamic attraction in North America.
• The interactive F1 X experience (starting at $79 plus tax and fees) is suitable for all ages. It includes Becoming F1, a holographic experience that immerses guests into the lives of car designers, engineers, analysts, pit crew members and drivers; 75 Years of Formula 1, with rare artifacts, cars, gear and innovations from the 1950s to today; and The F1 Factory, a behind-the-scenes look at F1's fastest machines.
Visitors can create their own F1 team and car, even choosing the name, colors and logo. That car then competes in hands-on racing challenges that include real-time race decisions on tire changes, pit stops and team tactics in a high-tech simulation. In the Pit Stop Duel, guests can change tires using real tools. They can go behind the wheel of their custom-designed F1 car to race in the Formula 1 4D Driving Theatre. The simulation includes authentic F1 training seats, realistic visuals and effects such as wind, vibrations and the scent of burning rubber.
• The F1 Drive karting attraction ($37), for visitors age 12 and up, starts inside but goes out on part of the Las Vegas circuit. Guests can experience the speed, sights and sounds of Formula 1 in 20 competing karts with features such as an LED steering wheel display and Drag Reduction System and Energy Recovery System technology. The 1,650-foot track has 31 turns as well as straights and technical challenges.
• The F1 Hub features sims (starting at $26.50) for those age 12 and up: cockpit simulators that combine motion technology with immersive audio-visual effects. It also includes the Flagship F1 Store, with a selection of official gear and Las Vegas Grand Prix collectibles, and Fuel & Fork, with pizza, burgers, entrees and desserts along with cocktails and premium beverages.
Rendering of Formula 1's new retail space in Las Vegas that's part of the new Grand Prix Plaza. Photo Credit: Grand Prix Plaza
Each experience will be individually ticketed and can be prepurchased online or bought on site. There are special rates for children, seniors and members of the military.
Grand Prix Plaza will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays and from 10 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Flexible event spaces with access to the attractions are available across the building's three levels and rooftop. Three new private event spaces -- Turn 1 Lounge, Cool Down Room and GPP Garage -- will be available to rent year-round.
Tickets for this year's event, scheduled for Nov. 20 to 22, will go on sale at noon Pacific time on April 9. American Express Card members have access to presale tickets beginning at 10 a.m. Pacific time on April 2.
Update: This report was updated after officials announced that the opening of Grand Prix Plaza was moved to May 2.