Having Explored the Globe for F1 Races, Here’s Why Las Vegas Is the Top Choice for 2024

There’s no denying that organizing a vacation around a sports event elevates the thrill of any trip, a realization that struck me while attending the highly awaited return of Formula 1 to Las Vegas for the first time since 1982. Unlike attending a football, basketball, or baseball game, F1 events usually last three days, presenting a fantastic chance to discover a new city—or even a new country.

Traveling from Los Angeles, a quick hour away by flight, I enjoyed one of the shortest journeys to the race. To beat the airport crowds, I chose to fly with JSX, a semi-private airline that offers its own terminal and private security, allowing me to arrive just 30 minutes before my flight. I landed before 8 a.m., and my taxi whisked me straight to Aria, navigating the same streets that would soon be transformed into the Las Vegas race track, where top drivers would exceed 200 MPH as they sped down the iconic Strip.

Upon entering the Aria, I was welcomed by the stunning Alfa Romeo F1 car from 2022 in the main lobby, flanked by a selection of the Italian automaker’s stylish road cars, along with interactive games and a fantastic pop-up boutique for merchandise. After the previous night’s thrilling practice sessions, Las Vegas felt oddly subdued, but within hours, the excitement surged—casino floors were awash with Ferrari red, Aston Martin green, Mercedes black, and McLaren orange as fans donned their team colors. Having attended numerous Grand Prix weekends from Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi to Silverstone in England, Las Vegas instantly struck me as distinct. Being a street race, you truly feel surrounded by F1 wherever you turn—there are even sections of the track accessible during the day, allowing you to fully absorb the vibrant atmosphere.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the vibrant lights illuminated the sky, race excitement collided with the electric atmosphere of Vegas as fans flocked to the elevated walkways connecting the hotels along the Strip, exploring iconic venues and unique experiences curated by the different hotels. One highlight was the Shoey Bar, inspired by the celebrations of Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo. Perched on a balcony overlooking the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, it offered guests a chance to sip a Red Bull margarita from a handmade Italian leather driving shoe, all while being filmed by a 360-degree camera atop a podium.

Situated in the heart of the long straight that spanned over a mile down the Strip, the Bellagio Fountain Club emerged as a future landmark of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Built atop the water that powers the iconic fountain, the Fountain Club was the ultimate spot to see and be seen during its inaugural Grand Prix, with MGM going above and beyond to deliver an unparalleled viewing, dining, and drinking experience. Featuring nightly showcases from renowned chefs cooking in centerpiece open kitchens, there was no shortage of exquisite dishes available. Coinciding with the Las Vegas Grand Prix was white truffle season, much to the joy of chef Michael Mina. The venue also boasted an open-roof bar with breathtaking race views and a boat serving Champagne and caviar, making it clear why the hottest ticket in town was completely sold out. Sources at MGM indicate that bookings for this year's BFC will open in early 2024.

The charm of a street race like this lies in the variety of vantage points it offers. From the Paddock Club—where guests can stroll the pit lane and enjoy rooftop open bars with views of the start and finish lines—to VIP pit lane restaurant pop-ups like Catch, and restaurants along the Strip that boast spectacular track views for diners, there are endless ways to experience the excitement.

At the Cosmopolitan, the launch of the latest LPM Restaurant & Bar coincided with race week, allowing guests to enjoy dining on its terrace while reveling in the iconic roar of the F1 cars as the drivers navigated the corner at the end of the Strip. Pro tip: Make sure to book your restaurant experiences ahead of time, especially if you're aiming for a view of the race.

When visiting Las Vegas, I’ve always found myself with plenty of options, and during race week, we were even more spoiled for choice, with a variety of takeover parties competing alongside the traditional grandstand experiences. Sports Illustrated set up Club SI in the former Margaritaville, hosting an extravagant party led by Shaquille O’Neal and David Beckham, featuring F1 race car ice sculptures chilling jumbo shrimp and an endless supply of beef Wellington.

Few places put on a spectacle like Vegas, and before the race, leading driver Max Verstappen remarked that the Las Vegas Grand Prix would be “99% show, 1% sport.” However, when Verstappen stepped out of his car to celebrate his victory as the 2023 Grand Prix winner, he did so in an Elvis-inspired race suit, basking in the glory of a breathtaking fountain and fireworks display, as spectators hailed it as one of the season's best races. This isn’t surprising; when executed flawlessly, F1 delivers one of the most remarkable sporting spectacles around.

Looking to secure your spot for November 21-23, 2024? Get your tickets at f1lasvegasgp.com.