F1 Arcade Is Coming to River North, Bringing Formula 1 Racing and a First-Ever Rooftop Experience to Chicago

F1 Arcade Is Coming to River North, Bringing Formula 1 Racing and a First-Ever Rooftop Experience to Chicago

Chicago’s River North neighborhood is preparing for a major new entertainment concept as F1 Arcade, the world’s first official Formula 1 hospitality experience, prepares to open at 1 W Grand Avenue, the former Rock Bottom Brewery space. The venue is scheduled to debut in summer 2026 and marks a significant expansion for the brand in the United States.

Designed as a hybrid between immersive entertainment and nightlife, F1 Arcade combines full-motion racing simulators with a high-energy social environment built around Formula 1 culture. The Chicago opening is especially notable because the company’s U.S. headquarters are based in the city, making this location a flagship destination for the brand.

What Makes F1 Arcade Different From a Typical Arcade

F1 Arcade Is Coming to River North, Bringing Formula 1 Racing and a First-Ever Rooftop Experience to Chicago

F1 Arcade is not a traditional gaming venue. Instead, it is designed as a hospitality-driven experience where guests can race on professional-level simulators while enjoying food, drinks, and live race-day energy.

The River North location will feature:

• Around 70 full-motion racing simulators designed in partnership with Formula 1
• Multiple skill modes ranging from Rookie to Elite
• Solo or team-based racing options
• Simulator experiences synchronized with live Grand Prix watch parties

This setup allows guests to race on the same tracks being shown during live Formula 1 broadcasts, creating a unique social experience that blends sports viewing with interactive gameplay.

Chicago Will Debut the Brand’s First Rooftop Terrace

F1 Arcade Is Coming to River North, Bringing Formula 1 Racing and a First-Ever Rooftop Experience to Chicago

One of the biggest highlights of the Chicago location is that it will introduce F1 Arcade’s first-ever rooftop terrace, adding an outdoor social space to the concept for the first time.

The rooftop is expected to become a major draw during warmer months, offering skyline views and a lively atmosphere that aligns with River North’s nightlife energy. This feature positions Chicago as a key milestone in the company’s expansion strategy.

Food, Cocktails, and Hospitality Experience

F1 Arcade Is Coming to River North, Bringing Formula 1 Racing and a First-Ever Rooftop Experience to Chicago

Beyond racing, F1 Arcade is leaning heavily into food and beverage to create a full hospitality experience. The venue will include the brand’s signature Octane Bar, along with a cocktail program featuring Chicago-inspired creations curated by award-winning mixologist LP O’Brien.

Menu highlights are expected to include:

• Elevated shareable dishes such as Wagyu sliders and seafood towers
• A premium cocktail program
• A zero-proof “Designated Driver” menu designed for guests who prefer non-alcoholic options

Why Chicago Was Chosen for Expansion

Company executives have described Chicago as a natural fit for the concept due to the city’s competitive energy, nightlife culture, and growing enthusiasm for Formula 1.

The River North location also sits in one of the city’s busiest entertainment corridors, near restaurants, bars, and major transit access, helping position it as a destination for both locals and visitors.

Industry coverage has noted that the concept reflects a broader trend toward experiential entertainment, where venues combine dining, technology, and social experiences into one destination.

Why This Matters for River North

The transformation of the longtime Rock Bottom space into a high-tech entertainment concept reflects a broader shift happening across Chicago’s downtown neighborhoods. Older restaurant spaces are increasingly being repositioned into experiential destinations designed to attract younger audiences and group events.

As River North continues evolving into one of Chicago’s most active lifestyle districts, concepts like F1 Arcade highlight how entertainment, dining, and technology are merging to create new social hubs in the city.

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