Photo by Kat Johnson
When I told my kids they were going to drive race cars, there were some concerns.
“But I don’t have a license, Mommy,” my 7-year-old lamented.
“Will we have to wear helmets?” my 9-year-old whined.
But one sip of our Designated Drivers (aka mocktails) quickly turned those frowns upside down. We were lucky to experience a preview of F1 Arcade, a new-to-Atlanta entertainment space opening February 6 in the Interlock on the Westside. Created by one of the founders of Puttshack and Flight Club, Adam Breeden, the high-energy restaurant, bar, and race car simulator venue first launched in London in late 2022 and recently introduced locations in Denver, Philadelphia, and Las Vegas.
Photo by Kat Johnson
Locally, the 15,500-square-foot space boasts 68 full-motion racing simulators, each with dual screens, surround sound, and eight tracks identical to Formula 1 tracks around the world. Drivers pay $20 for three races (about six minutes each) or $25 per person for five races as a team.
“You do not need to be an F1 fan to be here,” explains Liz Norris, vice president of U.S. launch strategy and communications. “You just need to be competitive, like adrenaline, and be open to try something.”
The simulators look complicated, but there are only a few buttons that matter. Like in F1, drivers use both feet—left for the brake pedal and right for the gas. The seats are adjustable based on your size. Even so, my shorty daughter required three cushions to prop her forward and high enough to drive. Had that not been an option, she could’ve utilized hand petals instead.
We started by scanning an on-screen QR code with our phones to connect the simulators to our names and pre-paid account. Then we used the steering wheel to select a driving level from Rookie (featuring full driver’s assist) to Elite (the most challenging). Courses are randomly assigned—our first was Las Vegas. When the on-screen lights all flash red, it’s time to race. The goal is to go as fast as possible without veering off the green arrow in the center of the track. Some of us struggled more than others. My husband quickly upgraded to Casual on the second race, while I kept crashing into walls. As we raced, my son, in particular, was keen on calling out each of our places on the leaderboard and jeering competitively when one of us passed him.
Courtesy of F1 Arcade
Lest you worry about lack of innate skill, note that accolades are awarded for everything from fastest average speed and fewest collisions to most time spent on the grass and highest damages. It was really nice to have a reason to applaud my daughter: “Lowest average speed? Yaaaay, Sydney!”
The races go by quickly, as they’re both exhilarating and exhausting. The constant seat jostling (think roller coaster rattling) and loud car noises can be a lot if you’re sensitive to motion or sound. However, Norris says a sensory-sensitive option is available upon request.
Three races in, we took a break for lunch. The options range from elevated—oysters and spicy tuna tartare—to classic—pepperoni flatbread and Caesar salad. Offerings lean spicy, so read the menu carefully. Our family liked the Wagyu beef sliders, pulled brisket tacos, and crispy French fries. For those who visit early, a brunch menu is available, featuring a sausage and bacon burrito, chicken and waffles, and avocado tostada.
Courtesy of F1 Arcade
After lunch, the kids were eager to return to the races. This time, we opted to play on teams. It became more interactive, as we could cheer on our partner when we weren’t behind the wheel. I could envision this working well for corporate team-building events and double date nights.
F1 welcomes all ages before 7 p.m., and switches to a 21-and-up spot afterward. There’s no cost just to hang out, and in addition to mocktails, a full beverage menu is available. Curated by Netflix “Drink Masters” champion LP O’Brien, it features signature cocktails such as the VIP Pass made with bourbon, mezcal, lemon, vanilla-passionfruit, and raspberry dust, served with a shot of Moet and Chandon. The Smokin’ Lap is a good choice for those who let the camera drink first, as it features rye, black walnut, bitters, and cherry, with smoke billowing out.
When F1 Atlanta opens on February 6, the first 100 guests will receive a Founder’s Club Card, entitling them to half-off food for first 3 months. Norris says Formula One watch parties, sound-on sports viewing, and DJ nights are in the works too.
No license or helmet needed.
Courtesy of F1 Arcade
