F1 Arcade is coming to River North this summer with 70 racing simulators, a rooftop bar and Grand Prix watch parties

If you’ve always wanted to get behind the wheel of an F1 car, now is your chance because an F1 Arcade is opening in River North this summer.

With 70 full-motion racing simulators, designed in conjunction with Formula 1, race fans of all skill levels have the chance to get in the driver’s seat and experience the thrill of zipping down the iconic tracks of Monaco, Silverstone and more. 

The forthcoming barcade, inside the former Rock Bottom Brewery space at 1 W. Grand Ave., will also be home to the first F1 Arcade rooftop terrace, as well as the full-service Octane Bar, where guests can try one of the popular “Designated Driver” mocktails. As for food, Netflix Drink Masters champion LP O’Brien offers a full menu of mains and shareables like Wagyu beef sliders and a seafood tower. 

The arcade will also host Grand Prix watch events on race days throughout the season. With few spots in Chicago to watch a race with sound, the F1 Arcade is a welcome addition to the city’s sports bar scene.

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Jon Gardner, President of Global Development, F1 Arcade, says, "With our U.S. headquarters based here, bringing F1 Arcade to River North feels especially meaningful. From our first-ever rooftop to Chicago-inspired cocktails and world-class simulators, this venue is designed specifically for the city and its culture. We cannot wait to welcome Chicagoans to race, connect and experience F1 Arcade in an entirely new way.”

The Chicago F1 Arcade is the seventh U.S. location, in addition to those in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Denver, Las Vegas and Atlanta. An official opening date has not yet been announced, but bookings for private events are open now.