Destination Las Vegas: An F1 fan’s guide

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is one of the most spectacular weekends on the Formula 1 calendar. Racing past world-famous landmarks beneath the neon lights of the Strip, the high-speed street circuit delivers theatre in a city built for drama.

But beyond the track, Las Vegas offers far more than bright lights and headline acts. From desert escapes at Red Rock Canyon to the old-school neon of Fremont Street, and with late nights that roll into early mornings, the city thrives on energy.

Whatever takes your fancy, there is plenty to fill the hours around the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Introduction to Las Vegas

Race Dates – 19–21 November 2026, with the Grand Prix held on Saturday night
Time Zone – UTC-8 (Pacific Standard Time)
Language – English
Currency – US dollar (USD)

Good to know – Cards are accepted almost everywhere, though it is worth carrying some cash for tips. Tipping is customary rather than optional in the United States, typically 18–20% in restaurants and bars. You must be 21 or over to drink or gamble, and photo identification is checked routinely.

The mid-November weather in Las Vegas is usually mild and sunny, though rain is not unusual. It gets much cooler after dark: daytime highs over race weekend average about 18C (64F), while nights can fall to around 6C (43F), so pack a jacket for the evening sessions.

Attractions in Las Vegas

Escape to Red Rock Canyon

Just half an hour from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area feels a world away from the neon glow of its neighbouring city. Spanning nearly 200,000 acres of desert, its towering red sandstone cliffs (formed over 180 million years ago) are best explored via the scenic drive that winds through the landscape. It’s a striking change of pace from race weekend and well worth hiring a car for.

Explore the Arts District

A mile from downtown, Las Vegas’ Arts District shows off the city’s creative side. The streets are filled with independent galleries, vintage boutiques, craft breweries and street art, which gives the neighbourhood a colourful energy. It is a good place to browse, grab a drink and see a different side of Vegas beyond the bright lights.

Step back in time down Fremont Street

For a taste of old-school Vegas, head downtown to the Fremont Street Experience. Beneath its enormous LED canopy, live music, zipliners and classic neon signs create a high-energy atmosphere with rather more history than the Strip.

Reach new heights at The STRAT

For 360-degree views of the city, head up The STRAT, the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States. If the skyline panorama is not enough, adrenaline seekers can try X-Scream, a ride that shoots you out over the edge and leaves you dangling high above the Strip – a fitting thrill on race weekend.

Food and drink in Las Vegas

Treat yourself to world-class dining

Las Vegas has become one of the culinary capitals of the US. Big-name chefs and Michelin-star restaurants sit inside many of the major resorts, meaning you can dine on everything from high-end steak to refined tasting menus without ever leaving the boulevard.

Take in the view from a rooftop bar

As the sky darkens and the neon lights glow bolder, the rooftop bars and terrace lounges begin to fill. Get there early to secure a panoramic view of the skyline, and whether you opt for something glamorous or laid-back, it’s the perfect way to stretch the evening.

Stop for some late-night bites

Vegas never sleeps, and neither do its kitchens. From casual diners and taco spots to 24-hour cafes, there is always somewhere open when the celebrations run late. On a Grand Prix weekend, that flexibility certainly comes in handy.

Venture into a classic American steakhouse

If you are leaning into the Vegas experience, a traditional steakhouse is hard to beat, with its prime cuts and strong cocktails. Dim lighting and old-school service make for an indulgent, atmospheric evening.

Getting to Las Vegas

Harry Reid International Airport sits just south-east of the Strip, making it one of the most conveniently placed airports on the calendar. It handles direct flights from across North America, along with a growing number of long-haul routes from Europe and Asia.

Entry requirements vary by nationality, and most international visitors will need either a visa or travel authorisation approved before departure, so check the official US government guidance in good time. From the terminals, taxis, ride-hailing services, shuttles and public buses all run to the Strip.

Getting around Las Vegas

Walk the Strip

If you are staying near the Las Vegas Strip, one of the best ways to get around is simply to walk and take in the sights. Doing so lets you visit the numerous casinos and entertainment venues while getting your bearings.

Ride the Monorail and the resort trams

The Las Vegas Monorail runs parallel to the Strip, along its eastern side behind the resorts, linking several of the major hotels and the convention centre in a matter of minutes. Services run late into the night, and the operator publishes timetables and dedicated Grand Prix information on its website.

Free trams also connect neighbouring resorts on the western side of the Strip, offering a handy hop between properties towards the middle and southern ends of the boulevard. Hours vary by operator, so it is worth a quick check before a late trip.

Reach the circuit

The Las Vegas Strip Circuit runs through the heart of the city, so for many fans the track is within walking distance of where they are staying. Designated pick-up and drop-off points operate for taxis and ride-hailing services during race week, and the promoter publishes full travel information for the weekend on its official website.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

Las Vegas offers an enormous range of accommodation, and where you base yourself shapes the weekend as much as what you book. Staying on the Strip puts you closest to the circuit and within walking distance of the track, restaurants and bars.

Downtown, a few miles north, has a different character altogether – older, more compact and centred on Fremont Street – and is connected to the Strip by road and public transport.

Whichever area you choose, booking as far ahead as possible will give you the widest choice over a Grand Prix weekend.

Accessibility in Las Vegas

The event is inclusive and accessible, and the services offered can be found in the A-Z Guide on the official Las Vegas Grand Prix website, where there is also a dedicated accessibility contact. Service animals are welcome in all areas open to ticketed guests.

Getting there is straightforward too: the Las Vegas Monorail has lift service and level boarding at every station, buses along the Strip are wheelchair accessible, and accessible taxis are available from the ranks at hotels and venues.