F1 Arcade Racing Venue to Open in Chicago
A Formula 1-themed entertainment venue, F1 Arcade, is set to open in Chicago's River North neighborhood this summer. The hospitality concept will feature F1 racing simulators and will be located at the former site of the Rock Bottom Brewery. This marks a new entertainment option for racing fans in the city.
The new F1 Arcade in Chicago will be located at 1 West Grand Avenue and is slated to feature 70 full-motion racing simulators. This location will also introduce the brand's first-ever rooftop experience. The venture is operated by Kindred Concepts, which holds an exclusive license from Formula 1. Formula 1's owner, Liberty Media, is also a financial backer of F1 Arcade, having participated in a $130 million funding round to fuel its global expansion. The Chicago venue is a key part of an ambitious U.S. expansion, with the city also serving as the company's American headquarters. F1 Arcade has already opened locations in Boston, Washington D.C., and plans further openings in cities like Las Vegas. The company's global strategy includes opening as many as 30 venues worldwide in the next five years. The simulators utilize the rFactor 2 racing simulation platform, a product of Motorsport Games, to create an immersive experience for a mass audience, not just hardcore racing fans. Gameplay modes will vary to accommodate different skill levels, from "Rookie" to "Elite," and will include both individual and team-based competitions. The River North location was previously occupied by Rock Bottom Brewery, which closed its doors in January 2023 after more than two decades. The brewery's parent company, SPB Hospitality, cited post-COVID sales figures and an expiring lease as reasons for not renewing.
