Honda Indy Toronto: Ultimate Guide for Beginners
If you’re looking for a summer event in Toronto to immerse yourself in pure adrenaline, the Honda Indy Toronto is for you. Held at the historical Exhibition Place, this is not just a race; it’s an experience you will remember for the rest of time.
Mid-July is the time to be in Toronto to attend one of the best Toronto summer festivals, the IndyCar weekend. With many different exhibitions and events at the racecourse and nearby, you’ll have the time of your life.
Let’s get into it and learn more about this thrilling summer event.
The History of The Grand Prix of Toronto
Back in the 80s, the Molson Brewing Company had the ambition of establishing an event to rival the F1 race sponsored by Labatt’s. Finally, in 1985, the concept of the competition was proposed, and it was approved for the following year.
On June 20, 1986, the first edition of the Honda Indy Toronto was held in front of 60000 people. The race was set in a part of Lakeshore Boulevard and the roads surrounding the Exhibition Center. The roads were smooth and created a fast and sleek circuit around the places that formed the track’s backdrop.
Ten years later, in 1996, the building of the National Trade Center forced the promoters to change the race’s course. The newly shaped course had a lengthened pit straight and an added medium-speed esses section at the end of the lap.
In 2007, the Molson Company took a step back, and the Honda Indy Toronto schedule got dropped. After a one-year gap, the race was brought back to life under new sponsorships.
Today, the Grand Prix of Toronto continues on its journey set on the grounds right by Lake Ontario.
When is Toronto Indy Car Race?
The course has a 2.84 km length, boasting 11 turns, each tighter than the last, with the final one being the ultimate curve near Lake Shore Boulevard. The race takes place in a three day span from July 19 to July 21.
The venue coordinators hold the Honda Indy Toronto at the Enercare Centre in the Exhibition Place area. The Centre is accessible from the Princes Boulevard and the Manitoba DR.
How to Get to Honda Indy Toronto?
Depending on the mode of transportation you’re using, there are different ways to get to the Exhibition Centre, where the race takes place.
Here are the best ways you can make it to the Grand Prix of Toronto:
By Car: If you decide to get there by car, consider getting a parking pass or a ticket to park near the Medieval Times. You can also try to find a garage or a private parking spot near the Exhibition Place, but that can be a hassle in and of itself. All in all, getting to the race with a car is not the optimal option.
By Streetcar: You can use the 509 West Streetcar and 5111 South Streetcar to get there. They both stop at the Exhibition Loop near the Annex and Mirvish Village.
By Train: Getting to the Honda Indy Toronto is easy and straightforward, even if you’re from outside Ontario. Canadian National Railway, Canadian Pacific Railway, and the local streetcars are all connected by Union Station.
Attractions Near Honda Indy Toronto Location
From the vibrant Entertainment District to great cultural exhibits, there are a handful of places you can visit near the Honda Indy Toronto:
1. King West Village
Just to the west of the Entertainment and Financial districts, King West Village is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Toronto, with an excellent culinary scene and dynamic nightlife.
2. Harbourfront Centre
Located in the south of downtown is the Toronto Harbourfront Centre, the vibrant neighborhood known for its numerous art galleries, shopping centers, and cultural expos. Harbourfront is one of the forefronts of Toronto nightlife.
3. Toronto Music Garden
If you’re into peaceful music, you should visit the Toronto Music Garden. This artistic sensation is located on the shore of Lake Ontario and will give you a serene experience by blending music and nature.
4. Fort York National Historic Site
You can spend some time at the Fort York Historic Site, where you’ll find the biggest original War of 1812 collection in Canada.
5. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
If you like underwater world, the Ripley’s Aquarium Toronto is one of the most exciting sites you can visit in Toronto.
Whether you’re 15 or 65, visiting this water world will make your day. Set at the base of the CN Tower, the Ripley Aquarium hosts over 20,000 aquatic animals and has nine different galleries for you to explore.
6. Royal Alexandra Theatre
A true historical masterpiece awaits you in downtown Toronto. Royal Alexandra Theatre, North America’s oldest operating theatre, offers a true royal experience to the audience and exudes an atmosphere like no other.
7. Steam Whistle Brewery
Positioned between the CN Tower and Rogers Center, the Steam Whistle Brewery gives you the opportunity to take a tour of their sites and see how they brew their products. It is a fun ride, and you’ll get to drink cold beers!
Things to Do While at the Honda Indy Toronto
The race weekend brings great energy and offers a pleasurable experience. Attending the Indy event will treat you to numerous special events and little side quests.
- Honda Fan Friday: This event allows avid Indy race enthusiasts to participate in the race free of charge if, in return, donations are made to the Canadian Mka-A-Wish Foundation. There will be contests, games, meet-and-greet with the drivers, and many more thrilling experiences.
- Honda World: This is another entertaining gig where you can test out virtual reality devices, paint your face, or attend tours that will educate you on the history of Canadian motorsports.
- Honda Speed Zone: This family-friendly part of the exhibition allows fans to take photos at the championship podium, exercise their driving skills on safe balance bikes, and get treats along the way.
How to Buy Tickets and Get to the Honda Indy Toronto
You can find out about the details of the Honda Indy Toronto schedule by going to the official website of the IndyCar series. You can also buy tickets by visiting the Honda Indy page.
Places Near the Honda Indy Toronto to Eat or Stay
Around the Exhibition Place and near the Honda Indy Toronto are some great places where you can have a feast. If you want to down a couple of beer pints, you can find several great beer gardens with top-quality beers near the racecourse. Miller Lite Deck is a top choice.
If you want a quality grab-and-go meal before hitting the tracks, you could try the St. Louis Bar and Grill just outside the exhibition Place. Wings, ribs, pancakes, and any other food you might want at a pub can be found there.
We must remember the household names. There are plenty of great chain fast food restaurants and casual options near the Exhibition Place, where you can grab a bite. Starbucks, Boba Boy, and Dairy Queen are a few to name.
Toronto is filled with great hotels and resorts. If you choose to stay at a hotel during the weekend, you will have great choices. Here are a few hotels you can book on your trip:
- Hotel X Toronto: Located at the Exhibition Place, steps away from the racetracks, Hotel X Toronto offers an A-class resort-like experience to visitors with its exquisite Lake Ontario views. If you want to stay in the action-packed area of the competition, Hotel X Toronto will be your best choice.
- Sonder At Artesa: If you’re looking for a top-quality hotel with more reasonable prices, you can check out the Sonder At Artesa. Known for its great services, Sonder At Artesa will provide the optimal hotel experience for you.
The hotel is surrounded by art galleries, bars, and great restaurants, so you can enjoy your off-time from the race exploring nearby places.
- Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown: If you don’t mind being a couple of minutes away from the racetrack and want to reside in a uxury hotel, the Radisson resort is what you’re looking for. Sitting at the heart of the city, Radisson Blu Toronto is the ultimate summer hotel.
Aside from the luxurious nature of the hotel, Radisson Blu is also among the Toronto hotels with CN Tower view. Being close to the major attractions of the city gives you the opportunity to explore the downtown amuses.
Conclusion
The Honda Indy Toronto Grand Prix is one of the most exciting motorsport events in Canada and North America, attracting many motorheads and enthusiasts each year in July. You can experience a fun, eventful weekend at the Grand Prix of Toronto with your family.
Should you decide to visit the competition, make sure to check the Honda Indy Toronto schedule and plan accordingly.
FAQs
1. What Time Does Honda Indy Start?
The events start as soon as 9:35 A.M. and as late as 3:15 P.M. Practices start sooner than the qualifiers and the final race.
2. Where Does Honda Indy Toronto Take Place?
The event features fast-paced IndyCar races and other activities for motorsport fans to enjoy. The race takes place at Exhibition Place which has a scenic backdrop for the exciting racing action. If you’re a fan of motorsports, the Honda Indy Toronto is definitely an event worth checking out!
3. What Are Some Activities to Do on The Honda Indy Toronto Weekend?
You can attend the intra-race events held by the promoters and sponsors. The Honda World and the Honda Fan Friday are some of the best experiences provided for fans by the competition holders.
There are also events outside the Grand Prix for you to participate in. Toronto summer festivals are some of the most entertaining venues you can attend to. Also, don’t forget to treat yourself to some great food in the area. There are plenty of Toronto food festivals in the summer.
4. How Many People Attend Honda Indy Toronto?
The Honda Indy Toronto weekend is projected to draw more than 150,000 attendees. Having a fixed schedule for many years has helped the organization to build a consistent attendance flow.
