Only here: MotoGP, breakfast tacos, and other exclusives
Ask any Austinite (the natives, not the Californians) and they’ll tell you all about the truly unique things that “Keep Austin Weird”. Between the Congress Street bat bridge, the Cathedral of Junk, and Eeyore’s birthday party, it’s easy to see why Austin is a little quirky.
Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is right at home in Austin as the only permanent, purpose-built F1 track in the land of stars and stripes. The Circuit also claimed the largest sporting event of 2022 with last year’s Formula 1 Aramco United States Grand Prix and will soon host the 2023 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas—the only MotoGP Grand Prix in North America.
Here are a few things you can only experience here…
The only premier motorcycle race in America
On April 14, 2023, the absolute best motorcycle racers will rev their engines on COTA’s starting grid. With a track layout tailor-made for exciting racing and proximity to one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., it only makes sense the 11 teams and 22 riders of MotoGP would make their one-and-only stop in America here. The motorcycle series has been at COTA nearly as long as its open-wheel cousin Formula 1 and will look to meet in Austin for years to come.
The curation of delectable breakfast tacos
Texas already has an unforgettable blend of Latino and Southern influence, particularly when it comes to food (Tex-Mex anyone?). Still, Austin is determined to do things its own way and thus the breakfast taco has become a staple in any reputable grub joint in town. If you think a breakfast taco is just like any other taco, you haven’t been to the right place. While it may generally consist of adding eggs, bacon, or other typical American breakfast foods, Austin does nothing in halves. From brisket tacos to Buc-ee’s Hippo taco, there’s no shortage of creative flair (we recommend any Migas or barbacoa taco).
Party & Paddle
Downtown Austin sits upon the ever-cool Colorado River and much of the city’s nightlife is only a few blocks away from a plethora of boat, kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rental spots. Barton Springs and Zilker Park are both mainstays for year-round activities and special events, and the 10-mile trail around Ladybird Lake is second to none. The water is just one more dog-friendly playground for residents as you’ll see canine companions helming paddleboards just as often as floating coolers with Sunday brewskis following closely behind.
Weird and wildly niche celebrations
Austin talks the talk AND walks the walk. After MotoGP comes to town, the city will celebrate Eeyore’s 58th birthday at Pease Park on Saturday, April 29. In May, the O. Henry Pun-off World Championship will take place downtown (going on its 45th year punning). There is also the Little Longhorn Saloon, the original location of Chicken Poop Bingo (typically known by a less family-friendly name), where locals gather to play every Sunday. Finally, the long-loved Weird Homes Tour gives Austin’s wackiest residents the chance to show off their equally wacky abodes.
Kick off the beginning of warm weather by exploring Austin and finish the perfect vacay or stay-cay with the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas April 14-16 at Circuit of The Americas.
