COTA adds pools, coasters
The Austin venue now features two swimming pools, a cable car, and roller coasters alongside the Formula 1 track.
By David Marshall ·
Two swimming pools now sit on the grounds of the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, marking a sharp departure from the venue's 2012 debut.
The track opened for the first United States Grand Prix in 2012 with minimal landscaping. At that time, the grassy banks surrounding the circuit remained largely empty. Since then, hospitality structures have replaced much of the open green space. These new facilities include a building connected to the main paddock by a cable car. That specific structure houses the two new pools.
The venue's skyline has also changed. Roller coasters and other amusement rides now stand along the fringes of the property. This expansion reflects a diversification strategy that blends a theme park, concert venue, and race track into a single destination.
Formula 1 returned to the circuit this weekend. The event serves as the primary draw for dedicated racing fans in the United States, distinguishing it from the temporary street circuits in Miami and Las Vegas. The permanent facility offers extensive run-off areas rather than concrete barriers. Designer Kevin Schwanz created the track layout, while Herman Tilke's company handled the buildings and infrastructure. The circuit features varied corner speeds, heavy braking zones, and elevation changes.
The venue hosts other motorsport events, including the World Endurance Championship and IMSA races. The next scheduled step for the facility is the integration of these new theme park amenities into the regular race weekend experience.
Source: Ars Technica
