Engines Revving in River North: F1 Arcade Is Bringing 70 Racing Simulators — and a Rooftop — to Grand & State
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North ·
Near North thrill-seekers, prepare to put the pedal to the metal. F1 Arcade, the world's first official Formula 1 hospitality concept, is set to open this summer at 1 W. Grand Avenue in River North — breathing new life into the two-story corner space that longtime Chicagoans remember as Rock Bottom Brewery, which closed in 2023. The 20,000-square-foot venue will pack in 70 full-motion racing simulators, making it one of the most immersive "eatertainment" destinations to hit the neighborhood in years.
Beyond the simulators, the Chicago outpost will be the first F1 Arcade location anywhere to feature a rooftop terrace — a bragging right that sets River North apart from the brand's other U.S. cities. Downstairs, the signature Octane Bar will anchor the main floor alongside a globally-inspired food menu and a cocktail program crafted by LP O'Brien, the winner of Netflix's Drink Masters. Official Formula 1 Watch Parties for all 24 Grand Prix races will also be hosted on-site, turning every race weekend into a neighborhood event. The venue's prime location at Grand and State — steps from the Red Line and a short stroll from the Magnificent Mile — only adds to its appeal for residents and visitors alike.
With F1's U.S. headquarters already based in Chicago, the team behind the brand says bringing this flagship-level experience to River North "feels especially meaningful." Private bookings are already open. Near North neighbors eager to get behind the wheel can visit f1arcade.com to explore group reservations and stay tuned for the official opening date announcement this summer.
Sources:
1. https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/f1-arcade-open-river-north-former-rock-bottom-site
2. https://chicago.suntimes.com/money/2026/02/24/formula-one-arcade-racing-simulators-river-north
3. https://hoodline.com/2026/02/river-north-gets-turbocharged-as-f1-arcade-roars-into-old-rock-bottom-space/
4. https://nationaltoday.com/us/il/chicago/news/2026/02/27/f1-arcade-to-open-in-river-north-at-former-rock-bottom-site/