Start Your Engines and Gear Up for an Exhilarating Weekend!

As if the coastal cities of SoCal weren’t exciting enough, there’s one in particular that gets a thrilling makeover every year as the iconic Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach roars to life. This annual motorsport event isn’t just about heart-pounding competition on a temporary street circuit. It’s a full-fledged urban festival that ignites the city. Imagine Indy race cars screaming past palm trees, elite drivers battling for checkered flag glory and enthusiastic crowds cheering them on. Beyond the track, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach explodes with vibrant entertainment, delicious food options and interactive displays that celebrate car culture and cutting-edge technology. 

As an official partner of this Long Beach event, Modelo will be out in full force to make sure attendees are “well-hydrated” amid the festivities. Modelo will be at the track with plenty of drink specials and giveaways for attendees every race day and into the night. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or simply out for a thrilling weekend getaway, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach promises an unforgettable experience. Here are 10 things not to miss at this year’s Long Beach event!

 

1 | VIP Club Perks

There’s no better way to see a race than overlooking the pit lane with clear sight of the straightaway. Upgrading to the Pit Lane Club promises just that—incredible race views right below you with the gorgeous Long Beach waterfront in the background. Located at The Vista Club, seats here are canopied and elevated high above the action. If you prefer to be nearest to the track, then sign up for The Seaside Club, which positions you near Turn 9 in the high-speed back straight. And being part of these clubs means you’ll get limited access to the pit and paddock throughout the weekend. There’s even a VIP option for the foodies: join the non-stop party with the Bubba Gump Fountain Club. You’ll have great views of turns 2 and 3 on the racetrack, along with access to complimentary buffets. 

Local Insight: Be sure to check out the exclusive second-level Fountain viewing deck located just above the restaurant!

 

2 | Drink Specials

The adrenaline that rushes when you watch a race is always accompanied by thirst. Modelo will be ready and waiting to quench it with their many offerings for a cold one (or a few!) throughout the weekend. You’ll be able to find Modelo at most track locations, including one in Marina Park (behind Grandstand 31) and another on the Promenade near the entrance to the Convention Center. You can expect to find Modelo featured at all locations inside the track, and stay on the lookout for the Modelo promo team, which will offer even more fun perks.

 

3 | Thunder Thursday

If three days of race action isn’t enough for you, head to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach kick-off party, Thunder Thursday, presented by Visit Long Beach. This event features motorcycle freestyle demos, pit stop competitions and endless rows of cool cars—you might even snag a driver’s autograph. Stop by the beer garden to enjoy live entertainment with a beer in hand. Located at The Pike Outlets, this family-friendly event starts at 6 p.m. and goes until 10:30 p.m.

 

4 | Long Beach Grand Prix Specials

Long Beach goes full throttle for the Acura Grand Prix, and local businesses are joining the celebration with epic deals and experiences. Sip race-themed cocktails like the Victory Old Fashioned or the ultra-luxe $500 Gold Medal at Fairmont Breakers’ Alter Ego bar, or head upstairs to Sky Room for a Final Lap Caviar Martini with an oyster-and-caviar garnish. 

Over at Sports Basement, enjoy 20% off for Basementeers and 11% off for non-members from April 11-27 with code 2050013544525. Meanwhile, culture lovers can catch Musica Angelica’s Bach Festival performances April 11-13 with 50% off tickets using code ROAR50—don’t miss “BACH to the Future,” featuring a laser-lit organ concert and food trucks. And for a historic detour, visit the Battleship IOWA in nearby San Pedro and get $4 off general admission with code LBprix25. From cocktails to culture, Long Beach is revved up for race weekend.

 

5 | The Lifestyle Expo

Head to the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center between races to experience the Lifestyle Expo—over 270,000 square feet of automotive, home, recreation, travel and entertainment products and services on display. The Green Power Prix-View will showcase hybrid and electric cars, as well as energy-saving home products and healthy lifestyle products. Bring the kids to the Family Fun Zone in the Long Beach Arena, which features electric-powered cars for the youngsters. This is the perfect pitstop for ultimate fans who will have the opportunity to join Cooler Master for racing challenge simulators and a sim racing tournament. 

The Lifestyle Expo at this Long Beach event is an excellent destination for engineering enthusiasts, too, as they’ll be able to witness mechanics working and race cars from the circuit showing up for technical inspections. If you missed your chance for an autograph on the paddocks or at the parties, you’ll be certain to spot your favorite driver here.

 

6 | Post-Race Nightlife

On all three days of the race—starting with practices, graduating to qualifiers and peaking with the Grand Prix itself—the event ends either with a public concert or a friendly competition. You’ll be out of the track well before bedtime and likely ready for a big post-race dinner. Head to Panama Joe’s for tacos or Legends Sports Bar for burgers. You’ll be certain to find more Modelo specials for the taking at these spots. Then, let the rush of the races carry you to nearby nightlife. The neighborhood is home to jazz clubs, dance clubs and plenty of dive bars that will be celebrating the weekend in race-chic style.

 

7 | Historic Indy Car Challenge Race

The race geeks among us know the details: In 1984, Long Beach switched from Formula 1 to Indy cars. Mario Andretti was the inaugural winner and later won two more times in Indy car races. Al Unser Jr. eventually topped that, earning six victories in just eight years. The Historic Indy Car Challenge, sanctioned by HMSA, celebrates race history throughout the weekend. Sanctioned by the Historic Motor Sports Association, the Historic Indy Car Challenge Race will celebrate the history of the races.

“For many, this will be a first-time experience, and for others, it will certainly bring back delightful memories,” says Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian. 

 

8 | Driver Autograph Session

With gates open and practice races underway, day one of the Acura Grand Prix sets the tone for the weekend. This is a make-or-break day for drivers and a great opportunity for fans to grab an autograph. Don’t miss the NTT INDYCAR SERIES Autograph Session, open to all spectators. Meet top stars like Scott Dixon, Josef Newgarden, and Alexander Rossi up close. This session will take place in the INDYCAR Paddock on Friday, April 11, from 5-6 p.m.

 

8 | Mothers Exotic Car Paddock

No race circuit is complete without having the chance to witness exotic sports cars up close and personal. Just shy of taking one for a spin, you’ll get to see the gloss and glamor of over 100 exotic sports cars on display at the event. On Sunday, April 13, enjoy these cars at Mothers Exotic Car Paddock located outside Turn 9. If brands like Ferrari, Porsche and Lotus get your engine going, then do not miss this spectacle.

 

10 | Live Entertainment

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is called “Southern California’s 200 MPH Beach Party” for a reason. The party goes long after the races are over. On Friday, April 11, and Saturday, April 12, head to the Terrace Plaza after the final race for live entertainment. The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center will host the fun, making it the perfect way to end race day. The concert lineup includes internationally known musical acts, such as rock band Foreigner and Canadian DJ duo DVBBS.

 

11 | Family Fun Zone

While Indy cars are just for the pros, kids can join the fun with Lil’ Lightning Racers at the Grand Prix. This attraction lets little ones hop behind the wheel for their own mini race day adventure. The Family Fun Zone, inside the Lifestyle Expo’s Long Beach Arena section, features rock climbing walls, video games, and more. Kids ages 3–6 can even race in their own mini cars, adding extra excitement to their race weekend experience.

Nearby Hotels

Let’s face it: you’ll need a nap and a good night’s sleep to make it through race weekend. Luckily, there are plenty of hotels within walking distance of the track. The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach‘s official hotel is Hilton Long Beach, located right on Ocean Blvd. Other nearby hotels include the Hyatt Regency Long Beach, The Westin Long Beach and the Courtyard by Marriott Long Beach Downtown. Book early if staying close to the track is part of your plans, but rest assured: there are also plenty of hotels within a short drive of the event area.