.png){kind=small}
We’re always on the lookout for fun new ways to upgrade the race weekend experience, especially when they don’t break the bank.
Before heading to the Las Vegas Grand Prix, we broke down the long list of race weekend perks American Express promised its Card Members, from lounge access to unique ways to watch the race and more. But marketing is one thing. With so many activations competing for your attention and so many high-end credit cards competing for your wallet, here’s our recap of what the Amex benefits were really like so you know what to expect at future F1 races (Amex is now an F1 global sponsor with activations at 15 races in 2025).
At the track
Amex Trackside Lounge
This is THE perk to look for at any race it’s available: a dedicated trackside viewing platform. For the Las Vegas GP, Amex’s viewing platform was located next to Turn 1. Any Platinum or Centurion members with a ticket in the East Harmon or Koval Zones could access the space, though reservations were needed to get in.
Once inside, you had access to bleachers and some seating, both of which would have been perfect for the race start when Max Verstappen overtook Lando Norris. The space also included a TV to help follow the action, and beneath the bleachers were special P1 Spritz vending machines which swapped tokens for free cocktails.
Even with reservation slots limited to a single session, we always recommend trying out different vantage points and this is a free, easy way to access a premium part of the track no matter where in the East Harmon and Koval Zones your seats are located!
Amex Fan Experience
The Amex Fan Experience was accessible to all ticket holders in the East Harmon and Koval Zones regardless of whether they have an Amex. There were no reservations required, and there were perks for Platinum and Centurion cardholders like snacks and gift bags.
So what did this year’s activation entail? Lots! There was a livery designer to customize your own F1-inspired poster, an area to film your very own driver intro, a customization station to create your own racing scarf, and a postcard station to send letters to loved ones (or to taunt your racing rival). Canadian F1 Academy driver Nicole Havrda’s American Express race suit and helmet were also on display.
The variety of activities at the Fan Experience means it’s perfect for the downtime in between sessions. Just be sure to plan for lines as these can be very popular.
Race Radios
One major benefit of a street circuit is the ample cell coverage to stream live timings and race commentary from your phone. That said, the always-useful complimentary Race Radios could be spotted hanging from the necks of fans up and down the Strip. They provided coverage of Formula 1 and F1 Academy sessions.
Off-track
High Roller Observation Wheel
The High Roller Observation Wheel was a highlight of the weekend. This humongous ferris wheel situated next to The LINQ at the center of the Las Vegas Strip offered a unique, head-in-the-clouds view of the entire track that no ticket—not even Paddock Club—could deliver. Best of all, it’s free with an Amex card.
Each ride takes about 30 minutes, and we were lucky enough to time ours during Free Practice 3. Even better, the sun set as we neared the top of the wheel making for some incredible photo opportunities of the track and the cars sparking as they raced down the first straight.
If you have a Platinum card, you could opt for one of the special CHANDON wine tastings. While there were far more regular rides, it was nice to watch the cars whizz by while sipping bubbly and enjoying hors d'oeuvres. Just decide for yourself if the drinks are worth a longer wait.
The F1 Hub
Merch at Formula 1 races can be hit or miss because generally it’s rows of team kit you can also find online. Vegas was different. I was in heaven seeing the insane range of special Las Vegas merchandise at the F1 Hub in the Venetian Resort. In fact, the team section was quite small in comparison.
There were the returning track exclusives and collaborations seen at past LVGPs, but the stars of the show were the collaborations: Disney, Hello Kitty, and even LEGO had dedicated sections. The pieces were creative and unique to Sin City, making those hefty price tags much more palatable (basic F1 75 t-shirts were $80). Plus you could visit the personalization station to make your own custom hat.
Last but not least was the dedicated Amex section of the store. There were a few exclusives, including a limited-edition Hello Kitty sweatshirt that was all the rage, a fun slot car replica of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, and complimentary gift wrapping kits for Platinum cardholders.
One big note: while the line to get into the store was moving, it was LONG. Not only that, but you had to wait on another line to check out. We recommend going very early to beat the traffic and spend your precious time shopping.
Looking for more on the Las Vegas Grand Prix?
If you’re attending the Las Vegas GP now or in the future, we highly recommend checking out our other race guides to easily plan your trip and ensure you never miss out on all the activities and events happening throughout the race weekend!
Looking for the best Formula 1 ticket and travel deals? We have you covered for every race on the calendar.
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
