From Trackside Thrills To Waterfront Sips, Here’s Where to Keep The Race Energy Going With An Ice-Cold Modelo
Every spring, the roar of engines takes over Long Beach as the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach transforms the waterfront into a full-throttle weekend of speed, sound and spectacle. But the race is only part of the story. Between laps, concerts and waterfront celebrations, the real move is knowing where to go next, preferably with an ice-cold Modelo bottle in hand.
Whether you’re trackside all day or bouncing between bars and patios, consider this your go-to guide for making the most of race weekend from start to finish.
Trackside Energy
Apr. 17-19, Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach takes over the waterfront for three days of nonstop action, with the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, IMSA championship racing, Formula DRIFT and Stadium SUPER Trucks all sharing the spotlight. As an official beer of the Long Beach Grand Prix, Modelo shows up everywhere the energy does, from trackside moments to bars and patios. It makes it easy to carry the momentum from the circuit into the city and keep the celebration going long after the final flag.
Inside the race footprint, the Modelo Lion’s Den in Marina Green Park is the weekend’s social HQ. Equal parts lounge and high-octane hangout, it delivers ice-cold Modelo Especial and Modelo Negra, temporary tattoos and a lively atmosphere that keeps fans in the middle of the excitement. It’s where race fans regroup between events, snap photos and debate podium predictions over loaded trackside nachos and funnel cakes.
When you’re ready to catch the on-track action, make your way across the promenade and stop by the Modelo Tire Bar near the Convention Center. Grab a cold one and settle in as the races roar to life just steps away.
Nearby, the Lifestyle Expo keeps adrenaline high with racing simulators and a dose of Formula 1 history. Driver autograph sessions pull crowds, and the transformation of the 710 freeway remains one of the weekend’s most surreal moments.
Before you leave the circuit, stop at the Official Grand Prix Merch Store or swing by the AAA Travel Booth. Consider it your first victory lap.
Harbor Views and High-Rise Nights
When the engines cool, head toward the water. Parkers’ Lighthouse delivers front-row harbor views and a Pacific-inspired menu that’s perfect after a long day on your feet. Here, crisp Modelo bottles meet spicy halibut rolls and mesquite grilled salmon for a wind-down by the water. At Queensview Steakhouse, located inside Parker’s, the iced seafood tower is a must-try! With oysters, lobster and jumbo shrimp piled high, it becomes the shareable moment race weekend calls for.
Steps away, Yard House pours the world’s largest draft selection and keeps energy high with crowd-pleasing plates. Enjoy your wings or burgers with a Modelo Especial beer pairing for a refreshing reset between rounds.
For elevated stays and late-night cocktails, Hilton Long Beach anchors downtown with sleek bars and easy access to nightly Friday and Saturday concerts.
Local Insight: Ask any longtime Long Beach local where to catch that iconic Fountain Curve glow at sunset. The answer is simple: grab a drink nearby before golden hour, then walk over as the skyline lights up.
Downtown and Waterfront After Dark
When race weekend enters its second wind, downtown and the waterfront take over. The Auld Dubliner thrives on its Irish pub atmosphere, live music, hearty Bangers and Champ and a perfectly poured Modelo. The vibe feels like a block party on weekends, with fans, locals and first-timers all feeding off the same celebratory energy.
Down Second Street, Panama Joe’s keeps the night moving with street tacos, creative margaritas and a dance floor that rarely empties before last call. Nearby, Belmont Shore Inn provides convenient rooms for those ready to stay close to the action.
2nd & PCH draws in early risers the next morning with breakfast, boutique shopping and a chance to reset before another day of racing and revelry. From retail shops to casual bites, you can ease back into the pace with one last Modelo in hand.
Needless to say, race weekend in Long Beach doesn’t end; it evolves.
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
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