Automotive Attractions in Austin Besides Formula 1

by Michael Satterfield

Every fall Austin is flooded with race fans excited to take in the only Formula 1 Grand Prix in the United States at the purpose-built Circuit of the Americas. While the most prestigious event on the COTA calendar the track is also host to IMSA, the Ferrari Challenge, the Porsche Owners Club, and home to several racing schools and driving experiences. But if you are in town for a race, or just looking for some other automotive adventures while in Austin, here are five things for car enthusiasts to check out in ATX!

Austin Speed Shop
Made famous by master builder Jessie James Austin Speed Shop lets visitors look in to watch as the team builds cars, check out the shop, and see some of their most famous rides up close.


Texas Military Forces Museum
Home to over three dozen historic military vehicles and artillery pieces the Texas Military Forces Museum is housed on Camp Mabry. The museum is free to the public but a photo I.D. is required for all adults as it is an active military facility. Also if you are riding a motorcycle you need to have long pants and sleeves.



Revival Cycles Workshop
Builders of unique motorcycles and gear, Revival Cycles is a must visit for gearheads, they are also the founder of the Handbuilt Show which is held every April to coincide with the Moto GP race at COTA. Stop in and check out the custom builds and gear before hitting downtown Austin.


Blue Starlite Mini Drive-In Movie Theater
The drive-in is a pop-up that accepts only 50 cars a showing (it’s best to purchase tickets online ahead of time) and they mostly show classic movies and encourage people to bring classic cars.


Hill Country Motorheads
Hill Country Motorheads is a vintage motorcycle museum located in Burnet, Texas – they display over 7000 square feet of vintage Street Bikes, Motocrossers, Trials, Flat Trackers, Drag Racers, Choppers, other genres of motorcycles and memorabilia mostly from the 1960s and 1970s. You will notice the heavy emphasis on racing.