DETROIT (WWJ) Free Prix Day is in full swing in downtown Detroit to kick off Grand Prix weekend. This is only the second summer The Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear is back on the streets of downtown Detroit since 32 years ago.
With more than 150,000 people expected to flock to the downtown area in the next three days, here’s what you need to know if you’re heading to where all the action is.
The track boundaries are Jefferson to the north, Atwater and Franklin Street to the south, Rivard Street to the east; and Griswold and Bates Street to the west. See race venue map here.
PARKING:
The only parking structure within the venue available for public parking is the Franklin Garage, at Franklin Street and Woodbridge. Parking spaces are sold in advance and a venue admission ticket is required to purchase a parking pass.
Other surface lots and alternate parking structures exist in the downtown area.
If you have to park far away, you can use the Detroit People Mover to get to the Grand Prix. Exiting at Renaissance Center station will put you directly in the race venue. There is no charge for riding the People Mover.
The Qline, which travels down Woodward, is another free option. Exit at State Street to get as close as possible to the venue.
You can pre-purchase and reserve parking on the Park Detroit App.
Three locations just outside the venue have been designated as Uber, Lyft, bus and limo drop-off locations.
West Location: Along Fort Street, between Washington and Shelby, between the 200 and 300 blocks of West Fort Street.
East Location: Riopelle between Jefferson and Woodbridge.
If you prefer to enjoy the outdoors, MoGo is a nonprofit bike share service that can help you get from your parking spot to the Grand Prix. However, bikes are not allowed in the race venue. More information on parking here.
POINTS OF INTEREST:
Spirit Plaza & Woodward Avenue: The main Chevrolet Display will feature some of Chevy’s newest vehicles in addition to their merchandise. There will also be displays, food and beverage options.
Hart Plaza: Dubbed the largest free fan area, Hart Plaza is home to racing simulators, a show car and vending machines, and activities and experiences throughout the weekend (8 a.m to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday). There will also be Detroit Food Trucks and the Don Julio Terrace with a “lively atmosphere and adult beverages.”
Campus Martius Park: Campus Martius Park features the Small Business Straightaway, highlighting local merchants from both startups and established companies in seven districts of Detroit.
Meijer Fan Zone: The family friendly-fun-zone is located at the fountain at the lower level of Hart Plaza. Fans will have the opportunity to meet some of their favorite sports stars, and receive free personalized autographs on Saturday and Sunday (both days, noon to 4 p.m.). They’ll also have the chance to test their own football, baseball and basketball skills at Meijer’s interactive sports stations.
Music fans will want to take in the Entertainment Stage at New Cadillac Square. After Saturday’s racing, the stage will light up with back-to-back EDM concerts.
The GM Renaissance Center will also have a variety of activities. All of the above are Free Access Areas.
Learn more about Points of Interest here.
TICKETS
A ticket is required to occupy a reserved seat in the grandstands and for General Admission Rooftop Viewing.
Free General Admission platforms are available along East Jefferson Avenue.
You can buy tickets here.
General Admission Rooftop Viewing starts at $80 for a one day pass on Saturday and goes up to $180 for a 3-day pass. See the full price chart here.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU SHOULD KNOW
Only tickets purchased from Grand Prix, Inc. will be honored.
There will be no rain checks or refunds.
The maximum cooler and bag size is 12” x 12” x 12”
Animals (other than assistance dogs), alcoholic beverages, large buggy strollers, hard-sided wagons, drones, and weapons are among items not allowed in the race venue. Full list of prohibited items here.
The Grand Prix runs through Sunday, June 2nd.