
TL;DR: The 2026 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix runs May 1–3, 2026 at the Miami International Autodrome around Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens), about 15 miles north of Downtown Miami. The closest airports are MIA and FLL, book flights, hotels, and rentals early. Driving is convenient but parking is limited and typically requires an advance pass, and traffic will be heavy. Many fans use train + event shuttles or rideshare drop zones to avoid parking. Popular places to stay include Miami Beach, Downtown/Brickell, Aventura, or Fort Lauderdale.
Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix 2026: Airports, Hotels & Car Rentals
The 2026 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix takes place May 1–3, 2026 at the Miami International Autodrome, a circuit built around Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. This location is about 15 miles north of Downtown Miami. The event draws huge crowds nearly 250,000 fans attended the inaugural Miami GP in 2022, and around 275,000 spectators came in 2024, with tickets selling out early. In other words, plan ahead! Below is an in-depth travel guide covering how to get to the Miami Grand Prix, where to stay, getting around, and what to do during race weekend.
Getting to the Miami Grand Prix: Nearest Airports
For most travelers, flying is the fastest way to reach the Miami Grand Prix. The two nearest major airports are Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL). MIA is the primary choice for international and domestic flights it’s roughly 18 miles (25 minutes) from Hard Rock Stadium and offers a large number of direct flights (ideal for travelers coming from overseas). FLL is also very convenient, located about 16–19 miles (around 25–30 minutes) north of the circuit. Many visitors find good flight deals into FLL, especially from U.S. cities, and it’s an easy drive down to Miami Gardens.
Both MIA and FLL have extensive rental car facilities (more on cars below) and other ground transport options. If you prefer not to rent a car, you can use rideshare services or public transportation from either airport, though having a car will give you more flexibility. Other airports: If flight options are limited, you could consider West Palm Beach (PBI), about 60 miles north, but MIA or FLL are by far the most convenient. Private jet travelers often use Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, only ~15 miles from the track, but for commercial flights stick to MIA or FLL.
Because the Miami GP is a popular event, flights into MIA and FLL can fill up fast for race weekend. Booking early can help you secure better times and fares. Also try to arrive with a comfortable time buffer before any track action delays happen, and you won’t want to miss Friday’s practice or other events if a flight is late.
Rental Cars in Miami: Options for Every Traveler
Once you’ve arrived, renting a car is arguably the easiest way to get to the circuit and explore the Miami area. Unlike some F1 venues with excellent public transit, Hard Rock Stadium isn’t directly served by rapid transit. While there are shuttles and trains to nearby stations (covered later), having your own set of wheels offers maximum freedom. The good news is major airports like MIA and FLL have all the big rental companies on-site, with vehicles ranging from compact cars to 15-passenger vans. Here are some rental car tips tailored to your travel group:
Driving in Miami is relatively straightforward. The city has a grid layout in many areas, and highways like I-95 and the Florida Turnpike connect you to Miami Gardens. Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour and race weekend, so pack some patience. Having a car lets you explore beyond the race from Miami Beach to suburban malls at your own pace. Just be prepared for toll roads (consider getting a rental with a SunPass transponder for Florida’s electronic tolls). And remember, in Florida we drive on the right-hand side of the road (if you’re visiting from a left-driving country).
Parking and Transportation Tips for Race Days
Driving to the circuit: If you plan to drive your rental (or personal car) to Hard Rock Stadium on race days, secure your parking ahead of time. There are no general admission parking sales on the day of the event you must pre-purchase a parking pass for the official lots. Parking passes are typically offered to Grandstand ticket holders for specific lots, and they often go on sale a couple months before the race. If you have a hospitality or VIP ticket, you may have parking included or a chance to buy premium parking. Be sure to bring the digital parking pass (usually on your phone app or printed) as required for entry.
On-site vs. off-site parking: Note that on-site parking at the stadium is very limited and mainly reserved for VIP and hospitality guests. Most attendees with parking passes will be directed to satellite parking lots a short distance from the track, such as lots around the stadium grounds or nearby. From these lots, you’ll take a shuttle bus or potentially walk to the circuit entrance. For example, in past events, fans parked at designated lots (some a couple miles away) and then used free shuttles to reach the gates. The organizers will provide details on which lot your pass corresponds to and shuttle logistics. Make sure to note shuttle operating hours and the shuttle pickup location so you can find your way back after the race.
Arrive early: Plan to get to the parking area well ahead of the scheduled track events, especially on race day (Sunday). Traffic in Miami Gardens and on highways leading to the stadium will build up for hours. Many experienced fans aim to arrive at the circuit at least 2-3 hours before the main event. For Sunday’s race (usually mid-afternoon), it’s not crazy to be parked by 9 or 10 AM and spend the morning at the fan zone or tailgating. Early arrival not only helps you beat traffic, but also gives time for security checks (there will be metal detectors/bag checks at entry) and allows you to enjoy any pre-race activities (concerts, driver intro, etc.). Parking lots often open very early (some even the night before for overnight RVs in other events). Check official info for exact opening times, but the earlier, the better if you’re driving.
Alternative transportation Trains and shuttles: You can avoid driving altogether by using South Florida’s transit options, which organizers heavily encourage. The Brightline high-speed train offers service from Downtown Miami (and Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach) to the Aventura Station, which is about 5 miles from Hard Rock Stadium. During race weekend, Brightline runs a special complimentary shuttle from Aventura Station directly to the track and back. This is a convenient and fast option if you’re staying near a Brightline station. Similarly, the Tri-Rail commuter train (which runs from West Palm Beach through Fort Lauderdale to Miami) will have service to the Golden Glades Station, where free shuttles run to the stadium. Many fans found these train+shuttle combos very handy in past years you skip traffic and parking fees, though you’ll need to time your return to catch the last post-race train.
Rideshare and taxi: Uber, Lyft and taxis will be available, but know the drop-off/pick-up logistics. Rideshare vehicles are not allowed right up to the stadium during the Grand Prix. Instead, they use a designated drop zone (in 2024 it was at Norwood Elementary School), which is about a 15–20 minute walk from the circuit. So if you take a rideshare, expect to be dropped a fair distance away and join the crowd walking in. After the event, finding your Uber driver amid the masses can be challenging there will be a lot of people requesting rides at once (and potentially surge pricing). If you choose this route, a pro-tip is to walk a few blocks away from the immediate drop-off zone to meet your driver (less congestion) or be prepared to wait until the initial rush clears. Taxis similarly will have a set drop/pickup area. Always agree on a meeting point with your rideshare driver if possible and be patient.
Public transit: Miami-Dade’s Metrobus network may have special event buses or existing routes that get you near Hard Rock Stadium. While there’s no Metrorail station near the stadium, you could take Metrorail from downtown to the Tri-Rail transfer station, for example, and then head to Golden Glades. Local authorities often beef up metrobus service on the 27 (which runs near the stadium) or other routes for big games. If you’re adventurous and on a budget, you can research the bus schedules but keep in mind carrying all your gear on public buses and potentially multiple transfers is not the most comfortable in the Miami heat. Generally, the train shuttles or driving will be more straightforward for visitors than normal city buses, but the option exists.
Traffic and leaving the venue: Post-race traffic jams are unavoidable. When ~80,000+ people all leave at once, the surrounding roads will be extremely congested. Law enforcement will guide traffic and may close certain ramps or direct cars along specific routes to manage flow. Expect delays getting out it could take an hour or more to clear the busiest traffic. One strategy is to stay put and tailgate a bit after the checkered flag. Many fans choose to hang out by their car, have a snack or drink, and let the crowds thin out. If you brought a cooler, this is a great time to relax, listen to post-race coverage on the radio, and celebrate (or commiserate) the race outcome while traffic dies down. If you absolutely need to leave immediately (catching a flight, etc.), consider leaving a few minutes before the race ends but you’ll risk missing the finale and it’s still not guaranteed to beat the rush. In summary: pack your patience, follow the police directions, and maybe pull up your navigation app for real-time traffic routes when exiting the area.
Where to Stay for the Miami Grand Prix
Miami is a major tourist destination, so it offers a huge range of accommodations from luxury oceanfront resorts to budget motels and short-term rentals. However, Grand Prix weekend brings high demand and often inflated prices, so try to lock in your lodging as early as possible. Here are some popular areas and tips on where to stay:
No matter where you stay, book your accommodations early. Hotels in South Florida for that weekend will fill up as tens of thousands of fans pour into town. (Rooms for 2025 and 2024 Miami GPs were snatched up months in advance, and many hotels require multi-night minimum stays.) It’s common for hotels to enforce a 3 or 4-night minimum on Grand Prix weekend so even if you only plan to attend race day, you might have to book a long weekend. If you’re on a tight budget, look at hotels farther out from tourist centers, or consider budget chains and motels around areas like Miami Lakes, Miramar, or Doral. These might be 10-15 miles away but could save money. Just factor in the commute.
Vacation rentals: Another popular option is to rent a condo or house via Airbnb or Vrbo. This can be great for groups for example, a multi-bedroom house in a residential area split among friends can be cheaper per person than multiple hotel rooms. There are plenty of condos in Miami Beach, Brickell, and even near Aventura you can rent. Check the listing’s proximity to the track and to amenities. As always, read reviews to ensure the host is reliable. Keep in mind that, like hotels, rentals will be in high demand and possibly have special requirements (higher rates, cleaning fees, or minimum nights). But if you find a good place, it can offer a more home-like experience (kitchen, living room to hang out, etc.). Splitting a house can indeed be quite reasonable per person compared to luxury hotel rates just book early and confirm the location is convenient.
Things to Do in Miami During Grand Prix Weekend
One of the best parts about coming to the Miami Grand Prix is that you’re in Miami! This city is a destination in itself, so be sure to carve out time to enjoy it beyond the racetrack. Miami offers beautiful beaches, a legendary nightlife scene, and rich cultural experiences for visiting F1 fans. Here are some ideas to make the most of your race weekend:
In short, there’s far more to do than you’ll likely have time for in a long weekend. Prioritize what interests you most whether that’s partying with fellow F1 fans, relaxing on a beach, or exploring local culture and plan a rough schedule. Just remember to balance the fun with rest so you have energy for the main event on Sunday!
Event Details & Attendee Tips
The Miami Grand Prix is more than just a race it’s a three-day extravaganza of motorsport and entertainment. Here’s what to expect during the event and some tips to make your experience smooth:
Race weekend schedule: The 2026 Miami GP follows the typical F1 weekend format, with some tweaks if a Sprint race is included. Friday, May 1 will likely feature two Formula 1 practice sessions (so teams and drivers can dial in their cars on the Miami track). In 2025, Miami was selected as a Sprint race weekend, so if that holds for 2026, Friday might also include a qualifying session (determining the grid for the Sprint). Additionally, support series like the Porsche Carrera Cup North America and McLaren Trophy (one-make racing series) will have practice or qualifying sessions on Friday. Saturday, May 2 will have more on-track action typically a final F1 practice or a “Sprint Shootout” qualifying in the morning (if Sprint format), the F1 Sprint Race (a shorter race that offers points and sets part of Sunday’s grid) in the afternoon, and possibly the first races for support series. Sunday, May 3 is the main event day: expect maybe a second sprint or final support races in the morning (Porsche and McLaren Cup races wrap up), an F1 drivers’ parade around midday, and then the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix itself in the early afternoon. The Grand Prix race lasts about ~1.5 hours unless there are delays. Opening ceremonies (national anthem, flyovers) precede the start, and podium celebrations follow the finish. Always check the final schedule closer to the date, as F1 timing can shift (usually the race starts around 3:30 PM local time, but confirm when announced).
At the track: The Miami International Autodrome is a temporary circuit built around Hard Rock Stadium, featuring 19 turns over 3.36 miles. Grandstands are set up in various zones there are 11 grandstand areas including ones at the start/finish, Turn 1, Turns 11-12 (the “Beach” complex with a beach club vibe), Turn 18 by the pit entry, etc. If you have a grandstand seat, you’ll have a reserved spot with a view of certain turns or straightaways. General admission (if offered via Campus Pass) gives you access to walk around designated viewing areas but no assigned seat. Miami GP is known for its themed zones: the Marina area (yes, they created a faux marina with yachts inland!), the Hard Rock Beach Club (with a pool and DJs), and various fan zones with food and activities. Take time to wander and see the track from different angles if you can.
Fan amenities: You’ll find no shortage of food and drink at the venue from typical stadium concessions to upscale offerings from local Miami restaurants (previous years had pop-ups of famous local eateries). Prices will be high, so budget accordingly (e.g., $15+ for a beer isn’t unusual at F1). Merchandise stores will be around selling team gear, event souvenirs, etc. if you want a Miami GP hat or an F1 shirt, you can get it there (or save a bit by buying in the city beforehand). There will also be interactive displays, sponsor booths (often giving away freebies or hosting games), and possibly opportunities to see cars up close (the F1 Fan Zone might have show cars or simulators to try).
Attire and comfort: Dress for hot, humid weather. Early May in Miami sees average highs in the 80s°F (~26-28°C) with high humidity. There’s also a chance of pop-up rain showers (May is the start of the wet season), so a light poncho or rain jacket in your bag is a good idea. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing you’ll likely be sweating and doing a lot of walking. Many fans opt for shorts, t-shirts/tank tops, and sneakers or comfortable sandals. If you want to rep your team, you’ll see plenty of Ferrari red shirts, Mercedes hats, Red Bull gear, etc., so feel free to wear your fandom proudly. Footwear: This is key the circuit campus is large, and you might be trekking from parking to gate, then around the track. Opt for shoes you don’t mind standing in for hours. High heels or dress shoes will make you miserable by day’s end.
Sun protection: The Miami sun is intense. Even if part of your grandstand is covered, you’ll be exposed when walking around. Wear sunscreen (and reapply during the day). A hat and sunglasses are highly recommended not only for sun, but it can help with glare when watching the cars on track. Staying hydrated is crucial as well; the heat and excitement can dehydrate you quickly. You can usually bring a sealed water bottle or an empty refillable bottle into the venue (check the official policy). There are often water refill stations or vendors selling water (at high prices), so have water on hand. Hydrate regularly, especially if you’re also enjoying alcoholic beverages.
Ear protection: F1 cars aren’t as ear-splittingly loud as they were in the V10 or V8 days, but they are still very loud at full throttle. Plus, support series or any demonstrations (perhaps historic cars) can produce significant noise. If you have sensitive hearing or are bringing kids, earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs are a smart idea. Even die-hard fans often wear earplugs during the race to prevent ringing ears after. You’ll still hear the roar, just without potential pain.
Cashless and apps: The Miami GP has been a largely cashless event expect to use credit/debit cards or mobile payments for buying food, merch, etc. It’s wise to download the official F1 Miami GP app if they have one, or the general F1 app, which might have an event guide, live timing, and a map. Having a digital map of the circuit grounds will help you locate things like your gate entrance, nearest bathrooms, food spots, and shuttle pick-up points.
General safety and security: Security will likely be similar to an NFL game at Hard Rock Stadium. That means bag size restrictions (possibly a clear bag policy or maximum size for backpacks/purses check the event FAQ beforehand). Don’t bring prohibited items like outside alcohol, weapons, drugs, etc. A small personal camera is usually fine, but professional camera rigs are not allowed without media credentials. It’s a long day, so consider bringing a portable phone charger (there may not be many outlets for public use). Cell service can get bogged down with so many people, but the venue might boost coverage or provide Wi-Fi in spots. If you get separated from your group, having a pre-decided meeting spot is helpful since phone communication could be spotty when tens of thousands are posting Instagram stories at once.
Lastly, get ready for a full entertainment spectacle. The Miami GP prides itself on being more than a race expect celebrity sightings, a high-energy opening ceremony, possibly military flyovers and anthems, and post-race celebrations. In past years, organizers have put on a great show with things like the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders performing, famous singers for the national anthem (e.g. Marc Anthony in 2024), and a podium DJ pumping up the crowd after the race. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere even if you’re not a hardcore F1 expert, you’ll feel the excitement. If it’s your first Grand Prix, take some time to learn the basics (know the top drivers, the team colors, maybe download a spotter’s guide) so you can follow the action better. During the race, a radio or scanner can be handy to listen to commentary (the F1 app offers live commentary, or local radio might broadcast it). But if not, the giant TV screens around the track will show positions and lap counts.
By being prepared and informed, you’ll set yourself up for an incredible Miami Grand Prix experience. It’s going to be a weekend of high-speed action and Miami flair enjoy every moment, stay safe, and get ready to witness Formula 1 under the Florida sun!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The 2026 Miami Grand Prix takes place on the weekend of May 1–3, 2026. There will be events on all three days (Friday through Sunday), with the main Formula 1 race scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026. Make sure to check the exact session times closer to the event, but those are the dates to mark on your calendar.
The Miami Grand Prix is held at the Miami International Autodrome, a temporary 19-turn circuit built around Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This location is about 30 minutes north of Downtown Miami. The track is often referred to as the Hard Rock Stadium circuit, since it loops around the stadium grounds.
Many fans find that driving or renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the circuit, using the official parking lots by Hard Rock Stadium. If you prefer not to drive, there are public transit options: the Brightline train to Aventura Station (with free event shuttles to the track) or Tri-Rail to Golden Glades (also with a shuttle) are excellent alternatives. Rideshare services and taxis are available too just note that Uber/Lyft will drop you off a short walk from the venue due to road closures near the entrance. In summary, driving gives flexibility, but taking the train + shuttle can bypass traffic, and rideshares are an option if you don’t mind a bit of walking.
The two closest airports are Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). MIA is about 18 miles from the track (roughly a 25-minute drive) and is the best choice for most international flights and many domestic ones. FLL is about 16–19 miles away (around 25–30 minutes by car) and is a great option if you find a better flight or price there. Both airports have plenty of rental car options and other ground transportation. If you’re chartering a private flight, Miami-Opa Locka Executive (OPF) is even closer (15 miles from the circuit). But for commercial flights, you can’t go wrong with either MIA or FLL due to their proximity.
There are lots of options. Popular areas to stay include Miami Beach, Downtown/Brickell, Aventura, and even Fort Lauderdale, all of which are within about an hour’s drive of the circuit. Miami Beach and Downtown Miami are great if you want to enjoy nightlife, dining, and beaches (with a bit longer commute to the track). Aventura or areas near Miami Gardens will cut down your travel time to the circuit Aventura has good hotels and is only 15–20 minutes away. Fort Lauderdale is further (30+ minute drive) but offers its own beaches and often more affordable stays, which is why some fans choose to stay there. Wherever you stay, book early, as hotels fill up fast on race weekend.