The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is an annual auto racing event that draws thousands of people to one of the most famous street courses in the world. The intense and exhilarating racing action on the streets of Downtown Long Beach offers an unforgettable experience for drivers and spectators alike. In this article, we will explore why the Long Beach Grand Prix has become such a legendary race and showcase some of our favorite aerial photos from last year's event for an up-close look at all of the thrilling action.
What is the Grand Prix of Long Beach?
The Long Beach Grand Prix, officially known as the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, is a racing event that takes place on a street circuit in Downtown Long Beach, California. Since the race's inception in 1975, the LB Grand Prix has been the longest-running major street race in North America. Over the years, it has become one of the most iconic street courses in the world, attracting some of the best drivers in racing. The popularity of the Long Beach Grand Prix continues to grow each year, with spectators flocking from all over the world to witness all the racing action first-hand.
An aerial view of brightly-colored race cars speeding past a sign reading "Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach", surrounded by spectators eagerly watching the race.
The Course Layout at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
The 1.968-mile, 11-turn course at the Long Beach Grand Prix winds its way across city streets through Downtown Long Beach, passing by popular sites like the Long Beach Convention Center and the Long Beach Aquarium. Though the course has undergone numerous layout changes over the years for safety, it still features some tight corners, as well as long straights where drivers can reach speeds up to 180 mph, like on a stretch along the East Shoreline Drive straightaway.
A stunning array of colorful race cars zoom down a straightaway at the Long Beach Grand Prix, an exciting motorsports event that draws fans from all over the world to experience its world-class racing.
What To Expect at the LB Grand Prix
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is one of the most popular races in the NTT IndyCar Series circuit, thanks in part to its iconic location. The race course runs through Downtown Long Beach, allowing spectators to take in all of the action as the cars drive down Shoreline Drive and Seaside Way while being surrounded by Long Beach's iconic venues and the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to watching the Grand Prix itself, there are lots of other activities to enjoy throughout the race weekend. There's a Family Fun Zone with attractions like bounce houses and face-painting stations, as well as vendors offering food, drinks, and souvenirs. There's also an exotic car paddock where you can get up close with over 100 exotic sports cars. The Lifestyle Expo is also a fun option, featuring over 100 booths with the latest automotive, home, travel, and entertainment products. There is something for everyone.
An aerial photograph capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the Long Beach Grand Prix, showing people strolling and taking in the sights of the multi-day festival, from food vendors and fan zones to live music, interactive displays.
Capturing Aerial Photos of the Grand Prix of Long Beach
Aerial photographs provide a unique perspective of the race that can be hard to capture from the ground. From high above, the Long Beach Grand Prix course appears quite different than it looks from the stands. The tight turns and walls are more apparent, as well as the geometry of the track layout itself. The aerial perspective also allows viewers to take in the entire setting – from the hairpin turns all the way to the surrounding cityscape of picturesque Downtown Long Beach.
Drivers use aerial images to study the course in advance and plan out their racing strategy, while spectators use them as a reminder of an unforgettable moment that will live on forever in their memories.
An aerial view of Downtown Long Beach, a vibrant urban center with beautiful beaches, bustling harbor activity, and iconic architecture - including the Aquarium of the Pacific, and Shoreline Village.
Grand Prix of Long Beach – A Race Fan's Paradise
But it isn’t just photographers who flock to this annual race; IndyCar fans come from near and far to experience all that the Grand Prix of Long Beach has to offer. From races featuring up-and-coming drivers like Alexander Rossi or Scott Dixon to legendary names like Mario Andretti or Jimmie Johnson, there is something for every type of race fan. And even if you don't consider yourself an IndyCar expert (or even a die-hard race fan), watching these talented drivers weave their way around this tricky downtown course is sure to leave you in awe. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some famous faces along the sidelines.
The LB Grand Prix has seen its fair share of famous drivers over its 45-year history— and it's even been visited by a few US presidents. In 2000, Bill Clinton visited the Grand Prix during his presidency as part of his reelection campaign tour—though he didn't actually drive any laps himself. Other celebrities who have taken part in this event include Keanu Reeves, Ted Nugent, Josh Brolin, Jason Bateman, and Gene Hackman.
Brightly-colored race cars navigate the winding turns of the Grand Prix of Long Beach as they make their way past a roundabout near the Aquarium of the Pacific in an exciting display of speed and precision.
Long Beach Vibes
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach isn't just about racing—it's about having fun. Every year, attendees come together to enjoy music, food, and drinks in a festive atmosphere, which is why the Grand Prix of Long Beach advertises itself as "Southern California's 200-MPH Beach Party".
An aerial photograph of race cars speeding around a sharp turn near the Long Beach Convention Center during the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.
The Grand Prix of Long Beach has become a legendary event for many reasons. With its thrilling racing action and iconic street course, it’s no wonder why this race is so beloved by fans all over the world. Even more special is being able to share aerial photos of the action, providing an unforgettable perspective for fans around the world. Between the stunning location and intense racing action, there's no doubt that the Long Beach Grand Prix will continue to be one of motorsport's most popular events for many years to come.