Race Day Is Coming to River North: F1 Arcade Is Bringing 70 Racing Simulators — and a Rooftop Bar — to Your Neighborhood

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · June 9, 2026

Near North neighbors, buckle up — your neighborhood is about to get one of its most thrilling new destinations yet. F1 Arcade is officially coming to River North this summer, and it's pulling into the former Rock Bottom Brewery space at 1 W. Grand Ave. in a big way. With 70 full-motion racing simulators designed in conjunction with Formula 1 itself, fans and first-timers alike will have the chance to experience the rush of iconic tracks like Monaco and Silverstone — no racing license required.

But this isn't just an arcade. The River North outpost will be home to F1 Arcade's very first rooftop terrace anywhere in the world, plus the full-service Octane Bar serving up creative cocktails (and mocktails for the designated drivers). As F1 Arcade's President of Global Development Jon Gardner put it, the venue is "designed specifically for the city and its culture." Chicago marks the brand's seventh U.S. location, joining outposts in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Denver, Las Vegas, and Atlanta — and it's the only one with a rooftop.

An official opening date hasn't been announced yet, but private event bookings are already open. With River North LIVE! on June 24–26 and the Taste of River North coming in July, this summer in Near North is stacking up to be absolutely legendary. Are you already planning your first race night? Drop your thoughts in the Socialhood comments and tag your co-pilot!

Sources:
1. https://www.timeout.com/chicago/news/f1-arcade-is-coming-to-river-north-this-summer-with-70-racing-simulators-a-rooftop-bar-and-grand-prix-watch-parties-060426