We’re so excited to welcome you to the first-ever edition of The Apex Edit – F1 ACADEMY’s brand-new travel feature and your go-to for all destination race weekends.

Think of us as your virtual tour guide: we’ll be dishing up the absolute best things to do during your trip, including top attractions and must-see landmarks (perfect for those Insta snaps), along with the greatest spots to enjoy a bite to eat and drink, plus everything in between.

We hope you love it as much as we do, and find plenty of inspiration to fuel your escapades. Our first stop: Austin, Texas!

Grab your cowgirl hats and set your OOO, ‘cause we’re heading stateside for the Circuit of the Americas weekend on October 22–25! If you didn’t know already, Austin is the eccentric cousin of the F1 ACADEMY family, and it’s safe to say we’re totally obsessed with this city’s mantra of ‘keeping it weird’.

So, saddle up, because we'll be spilling the deets on where to track down vintage denim and thrifted gems, the most legendary food, and the attractions you need to add to your itinerary.

The Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas

Racing aside, you definitely won’t be bored in Austin. This lively city is jam-packed with iconic sights, vibrant culture and more off-track activities than you’ll know what to do with! And because sessions are spread out across four days, there’s more than enough time to explore the area and experience what’s on offer.

Need a reminder of the track schedule? Head over to our official Austin page, where you’ll be able to grab the times and dates for Practice and Qualifying, along with all three F1 ACADEMY races. You can also pick up tickets to see our cars in action for Practice and Qualifying on Thursday for just $20!

Attractions & Landmarks

COTALAND

It’d be utterly remiss of us if we didn’t mention Austin’s brand-new theme park, COTALAND, that’s situated slap-bang next to —– you guessed it – COTA! This epic new attraction opened in September 2026 and offers something for every age and adventure level.

Covering an impressive 30 acres, this place is crammed with over 30 rides and includes everything from gentle log flumes and wacky worm coasters to high-speed thrills that will amaze even the biggest adrenaline junkie. Special mention goes to Circuit Breaker – Texas’ only tilt coaster that’s officially ranked a Level 5 in intensity (the highest, FYI). Reckon you’re brave enough to take it on?

Peter Pan Mini-Golf

If you want to visit a true Austin staple, it’s got to be Peter Pan Mini-Golf. This place is something of an institution and has been a firm favourite since 1948. With two 18-hole courses to choose from and massive retro statues of a T. Rex and Peter himself, it’s total nostalgia all round. Located just on the corner of Barton Springs and Lamar, this spot offers laid-back fun and is a brilliant way to show off your putting skills.

Congress Avenue Bridge (Bat Bridge)

At sunset, join locals and tourists alike as they flock to Congress Avenue Bridge, also affectionately known as ‘Bat Bridge’. Here, you’ll soak up magnificent views as up to 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take to the skies. These guys make a grand appearance every evening from mid-March until late October before migrating south for winter. It’s completely free to watch and such a spectacular sight – you won’t want to miss it.

Barton Springs Pool

When you need a break from that Texas heat, head to Zilker Park and take a dip in Barton Springs Pool. Measuring three acres in size and fed by underground natural springs, this pool has an average temperature of 68–70 degrees Fahrenheit (20–21.1 degrees Celsius) year-round! You can buy your tickets online in advance or purchase them on the day at the on-site kiosk.

Activate Games, Austin

Fancy getting stuck into something a bit different? You’ve got to try Activate on Feathergrass Ct at The Domain. With this experience, you’ll enter the game and become the player, taking on a series of high-tech, interactive rooms that’ll test your physical and mental skills. Get ready to dodge lasers, master glowing grid floors, and tackle climbing walls. It’s ridiculously fun and competitive and packed with action from the get-go.

Lake Travis Zip Line Adventures

Take a 30-minute drive to the Hill Country to find Lake Travis Zip Line Adventures. It’s home to five distinct zip lines, including the longest and fastest in Texas. Things kick off with a scenic boat ride across the lake, followed by a guided hike and exhilarating zip flights! Sunset and Full Moon tours are also available for a unique dusk or under-the-stars experience.

Style & Shopping

Austin’s style rulebook is famously relaxed, so trackside dressing is a doddle, but don’t for one moment mistake that for a lack of glam! It’s all about the art of the high-low mix and nailing the modern cowgirl aesthetic – we’re talking paddock cool though, not cheap fancy dress. For an effortless look, pair vintage-wash denim with an oversized graphic tee, and top it off with a hat and comfortable cowboy boots. Bear in mind you’ll likely rack up around 20k steps a day at COTA, so trainers or your favourite pair of walking shoes are absolutely fine too.

Want to sort your track outfit and snag an authentic piece of Texan style while you’re here? Head to Allens Boots, an iconic store on South Congress offering endless rows of hand-stitched boots and stacks of hats. You’ll know you’re in the right place thanks to the giant red sign outside!

COMPETITION: Win a one-of-a-kind pair of F1 ACADEMY custom Tecovas Annie Boots

For even more Western gear, there’s also the Tecovas flagship store on South Congress along with Feathers Boutique for curated vintage denim and pre-loved designer gems. Finally, if you love digging for budget-friendly bargains, you’ve got to check out South Congress Goodwill, where you’ll find all kinds of thrifted goodies.

Tacos, BBQ & Sweet Treats

When you’re in Austin, eating well is mandatory – and quite frankly, we’re ready to experience a slice of the foodie action!

For unapologetically pink feminine energy, you’ve got to head to Taquero Mucho in Downtown Austin. This beautiful woman-owned restaurant features tasteful decor, neon signs and a floral phone booth (and yes, it’s a stellar photo op!). As for the menu, even the food is pink! Here, you’ll find loads of yummy taco and Tex-Mex dishes, along with a killer brunch menu (did somebody say waffles?!), topped off with a lush mocktail list. Plus, there’s even a cowboy hat vending machine.

For our plant-based friends, visit Revolution Vegan Kitchen at Thicket Food Park, a legendary food truck serving up mouthwatering vegan tacos, burgers, and loaded bites. Enjoy shaded seating areas or take it to go – all for a super affordable price.

Tacos not your thing? No worries, because Texas BBQ is a huge deal here and a massive part of Austin culture. With that in mind, you’ll never be far from a hearty BBQ joint! Visit Franklin Barbecue in East Austin, arguably the most famous around thanks to bucket-list dishes like their world-renowned brisket – just be prepared to queue early for the full experience. Another top option is Terry Black’s on Barton Springs Road, serving up a variety of pit-smoked meats and signature sides.

Got a sweet tooth? Pick up an aesthetically pleasing boba tea, a jiggly slice of cheesecake, or an insane ice-cream creation from OMG Squee in East Austin, or go to The Salty Donut in South Congress and indulge in artisan treats and coffee on their chic patio.

Austin’s Quick Hit Insta Spots

1. F1 ACADEMY Paddock: Our number one go-to has to be the F1 ACADEMY paddock. Swing by to catch a glimpse of the cars, take some snaps and soak up the energy first hand. There’s even autograph sessions with the drivers, so keep your eyes peeled!

2. Austin Skyline: Day or night, capturing the city skyline is a classic. Visit Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk or Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge for the best angles.

3. Taquero Mucho: An all-pink wonderland full of photogenic moments and tasty food. The viral phone booth is the star here though – you know what to do!

4. Greetings from Austin: This retro-esque postcard mural in South Austin is a favourite with visitors. If you haven’t taken a photo here, have you even been to the city?

5. Tau Ceti Mural: This stunning rainbow optical illusion at 2nd and Brazos is Austin’s tallest piece of public art. Towering at 103 feet, this magnificent colour spectrum makes for an unforgettable shot for your feed.