The Family Grandstand Experience at the Montreal Grand Prix: An F1 Superfan’s Take

Grandstand 33: A Familial F1 Experience

Dean and his family—more specifically his dad and two brothers—went all three days of the race weekend and sat in Grandstand 33. It’s also known as the Family Grandstand because you can snag tickets at a discounted family price. This grandstand offers uncovered, numbered bench-style seating with fantastic views of turns 6 and 7, albeit with catch fencing low down. There’s also a massive screen clearly visible making it easy to follow the on-track action.

Dean described this section as an “awesome experience”, emphasizing that the atmosphere was extremely lively and everyone there was bonded by their passion for hearing engines roar to life. Everyone nearby was very chatty and eager to make friends as they discussed their favorite teams, drivers, and what was happening on track. “No one was there to walk in the park,” he said, calling out the fans who wander around the Parc Jean-Drapeau.  “Everyone was there for the same reason, and that was to watch this Formula 1 race,” highlighting the passionate nature of those who shared this Family Grandstand experience.

Soaking Up the Pre-Race Atmosphere: 

Race day, the Gangji family arrived at the track about an hour before lights out. They found that although it was cutting it a bit close, this gave them just enough time to see what was happening around the track, get their drinks, and get settled in their seats. Dean explained that “as you get through the very well done security line, there’s more people, sounds, and palpable energy.” There was also a distinct smell that stood out to him. “It was surprising and overwhelming at first, but I got used to it,” Dean recalled. “Very rubbery and like brake pads.” The scent, mixed with the distant roar of engines and commotion of the crowd, made it clear that race day had truly begun. Of note, the Porsche Carrera Cup North America raced earlier that day, setting the scene of anticipation as you could hear the cars from half a mile away.

Around the track were numerous attractions, including live DJs, cornhole and other games, and even an F1 simulator, although they unfortunately had to pass on the sim given the length of the line. Dean echoed that there was a “carnival feel” to the atmosphere.

Tiding fans over to the race start was the usual driver’s parade, a fun way to see the drivers before they suit up. 

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The Journey to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

Dean and his family ventured to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve from downtown Montreal, where Dean lives and attends university. They used the STM metro system, a “robustly done” metro system according to Dean. They took the yellow line to Jean-Drapeau station, and walked about 20 minutes from there to the circuit. If you’re not keen on walking the 20 minutes, there’s also a number 777 bus that takes you from Jean-Drapeau to Casino de Montreal and it’s less than a 10 minute walk from there.

Upon arriving at the circuit, they used the Canadian Grand Prix app (‘F1GPCanada’ in app stores) to find their way around. There was heavy crowding in and on their way out of the circuit. The metro was packed, too. Dean stated that “turning your brain off and moving with the crowd” will avoid unnecessary frustrations. At least the crowds were all happy race fans! 

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Packing for Race Day

The Gangjis thought ahead when it came to snacks and drinks, bringing in a mini cooler all three days filled with sandwiches, crackers, chips, applesauce, goldfish and water to keep them content throughout the long days. Dean strongly recommended bringing a cooler but warned it needs to stay within specific dimensions (9" x 18" x 10").

With an average high of 66°F (19°C) in Montreal for the month of May, Dean recommends a hat to shield from the sun, alongside a sweater in case there’s a breeze.

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Dean’s Guidance from a Weekend in the Family Grandstand

With any race weekend comes valuable lessons picked up along the way, and Dean offered plenty of practical advice for making the most of the experience. One of his top recommendations was snagging an Amex Race Radio so you don’t miss any live race coverage. He also highlighted that the Canadian Grand Prix app proved to be immensely helpful. By entering your seat location, the app provided the fastest walking routes along with information on nearby food, drink, and restroom options. “We mainly used the app to get around,” Dean explained, “but there were a lot of maps posted around, which also made it easier to navigate.” 

Outside the track, he encouraged visitors to explore the city, particularly the lively atmosphere along Crescent Street. He also suggested checking out places like the Ritz-Carlton and Mount Royal where drivers could be spotted. Dean saw upwards of 7 drivers! If you want to know more about how Montreal comes alive during the Grand Prix weekend, check out our look at Montreal's atmosphere and Montreal’s most famous F1 merch store! 

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Looking for More?

If you’re attending the Canadian GP now or in the future, we highly recommend checking out our other Canadian GP guides to plan your trip and make sure you don’t miss any of the weekend’s activities and events. In particular, for a closer look at all the grandstand options be sure to explore our seating guide and pick your perfect spot to catch the action.

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