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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: CT Dharma on January 07, 2018, 05:23:18 AM

Title: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: CT Dharma on January 07, 2018, 05:23:18 AM
Heading down to MotoGP at the Circuits of the Americas track in Austin in April. Having never been to the area might someone suggest an independent hotel/motel that I won't likely find on the internet booking sites?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: Rebochi on January 07, 2018, 06:08:13 AM
   When in Austin I stay a cheap motel at 7th and I 35. This puts you in easy walking distance of 6th street which is one of the best music/bar/restaurant locations on earth. That would be about 20 miles to COTA but well worth the drive.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: rtbickel on January 07, 2018, 06:45:07 AM
It's pretty much out in the sticks, with nothing nearby as I recall but it has been a couple of years since I went to a race there.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: Travlr on January 07, 2018, 07:58:16 AM
Is there bus service to and from the track?

When I go to Laguna and try and stay near a transit station and ride the bus to the races.

Mike
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: Laker on January 07, 2018, 08:07:58 AM
They are building many hotels in Buda so that would be a place to check. AirBnB would be my suggestion, though. There is a shortage of hotels in Austin, the rates get increased during busy times and the seedy hotels fill up as well.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on January 07, 2018, 09:56:27 AM
Bastrop, TX is 22 miles from the track, has motels/bedbreakfast in varying price ranges, and is on a nice backdoor route to the track that avoids the I-35 crush...just sayin'
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 07, 2018, 10:46:08 AM
   When in Austin I stay a cheap motel at 7th and I 35. This puts you in easy walking distance of 6th street which is one of the best music/bar/restaurant locations on earth. That would be about 20 miles to COTA but well worth the drive.

I've never found a cheap hotel in d/t during COTA weekend.  I'd like to know about this one.

I know of one reasonable hotel that doesn't gouge during MotoGP weekend that's close by d/t:  Extended Stay America at Hwy 290 and I 35.   It's about 10-15 minute ride to d/t and about 45 min (depends on traffic) ride to COTA.  You can't be close to downtown Austin and expect to get to COTA in less than half an hour and with traffic- and there is always traffic in Austin- it can take longer.

Whatever you do, DO NOT stay at ANY Motel 6.  They are very nasty and noisy.  You can stay by the airport or in Budda but expect to pay the same and be further away from d/t. 

If I was going for a longer commute but wanted a great and affordable time, I'd consider San Antonio.  That's about hour and half commute to COTA with the 85 mph turnpike.  I am biased, I like San Antonio.   

when I go to COTA I stay at Extended Stay America per above.

and if you've never been to San Antonio you owe it to yourself to stay another day or two to stay at the Riverwalk.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: ken farr on January 07, 2018, 01:05:06 PM
AirBnB and Uber are your friends.

Uber will up the rate for pick up, but it isn't terrible.

kjf
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: CT Dharma on January 07, 2018, 04:01:29 PM
Thanks for some great suggestions everyone; appreciate the feedback.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: mjptexas on January 08, 2018, 08:29:39 AM
Heading down to MotoGP at the Circuits of the Americas track in Austin in April. Having never been to the area might someone suggest an independent hotel/motel that I won't likely find on the internet booking sites?

Thanks.

As stated earlier a cheap hotel in Austin during COTA week is an oxymoron.

More importantly, what's your ground transportation plan?  If you have personal ground transportation (even a rental car) I'd look for a hotel with close proximity to the toll road, Hwy 130, which runs east of Austin and goes right by the track.  I live about 40 miles northeast of the track and always take 130 to track.  Speed limit is 80 mph so the ride goes quickly.  You could look for something as far north as Round Rock, and as far south as Buda and still be less than an hour from the track.  Only warning is STAY AWAY from anything on I-35 from the 183 intersection, north to Pflugerville.

Anything in or close to downtown will be pretty pricey.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 08, 2018, 09:32:08 AM
Mike's the guy.   :thumb:
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: bettythebear on January 08, 2018, 10:14:48 AM
I live 30 miles South of Austin in a small town called Lockhart. It's not all that far from the track. I definitely second the idea of not staying downtown or anywhere near I35. Bastrop is a great idea. You could also probably find a better fit on the airbnb website.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 08, 2018, 12:52:04 PM
You gotta go to Lockhart for the BBQ. 

It's about 15 minutes south of the track on the turnpike at a posted 85 mph (where I was passed by a motor cop on Beemer when I was doing 90 on the Greenie).  (Look out for the "whoops" section on the turnpike.)
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: mjptexas on January 09, 2018, 10:18:16 PM
I live 30 miles South of Austin in a small town called Lockhart. It's not all that far from the track. I definitely second the idea of not staying downtown or anywhere near I35. Bastrop is a great idea. You could also probably find a better fit on the airbnb website.

Didn’t think about Lockhart or Bastrop.  Both great ideas.  IMHO there are typically only 3 events in Austin Motogp week that deserve attention:

1 - Ducati Austin party on Thursday night.  Vito puts out a nice spread.  The factory Ducati riders have been there the last 3 years so I would think they would make it again this year.  After Dovi’s 2017 performance I would expect a big crowd.

2 - AF1 Racing party, usually Friday night.  John puts on an even bigger party than Vito, he just doesn’t bring as much star power to the gig.

3 - Handbuilt  Motorcycle Show.  All weekend.  Be sure to check out the bikes outside the show too.  Pretty entertaining.

I’ll be at the track Friday thru Sunday and would be happy to meet up with any Wildguzzi members.  Since I’m now retired I’m also available for some Texas  Hill Country riding before or after the race.

Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 09, 2018, 11:44:19 PM
Mike,  congrats on your retirement. 
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: Darren Williams on January 10, 2018, 09:37:42 AM
I can't imaging going to the MotoGP at COTA without riding. Free MC parking next to the gate (or in Ducati Island if you ride that brand).  Of course what makes it super cool is it's one of the few places motorcycle centric I go where sport bikes will way out number cruisers!
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: tonyduc on January 10, 2018, 03:16:24 PM
I stayed at the Drury, they have free buffet breakfast and dinner, they did the same at the Indy GPs. About 20 -30 min to track.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: jbell on January 10, 2018, 05:09:30 PM
All good advice above.  If you can make it out to the track on Friday the attendance is very light and there is plenty to see.  Be sure to wear some comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen and a hat.  If you are planning on sitting on the grass, a foam or inflatable pad would be a good idea.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on January 10, 2018, 07:00:31 PM
Last year it was blustery and cold a majority of the weekend right after hot and humid earlier in the week, so pack for both extremes...YMMV
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 10, 2018, 07:16:56 PM
Mike, I am starting to the COTA boogie and the Hill Country Blues.

I am heading to Deep Ellum with my money in my shoe.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: mjptexas on January 12, 2018, 07:50:27 AM
Mike, I am starting to the COTA boogie and the Hill Country Blues.

I am heading to Deep Ellum with my money in my shoe.

John, let me know your schedule.  I have plenty of riding time these days. 
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on January 12, 2018, 09:45:40 AM
John, let me know your schedule.  I have plenty of riding time these days.

I need to make a schedule.  Originally, I wasn't planning to go until I read your post.   I'd certainly like to ride the 3 Sisters in the Hill Country.  Breakfast in Bandera.  Brings back memories of living there.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on January 12, 2018, 11:24:16 AM
We really should try to do a WildGuzzi Rendezvous at COTA this year...several of us have attended in the past!  Would be good to maybe have a lunch at Black's in Lockhart at least for the WG crew instead of trying to find each other in the masses of the crowds on race day!

I plan on riding up again this year from Houston...Perhaps lunch on Saturday in Lockhart and then spend the day at the track afterwards?

Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: mjptexas on January 12, 2018, 05:36:16 PM
We really should try to do a WildGuzzi Rendezvous at COTA this year...several of us have attended in the past!  Would be good to maybe have a lunch at Black's in Lockhart at least for the WG crew instead of trying to find each other in the masses of the crowds on race day!

I plan on riding up again this year from Houston...Perhaps lunch on Saturday in Lockhart and then spend the day at the track afterwards?

I bet we could make that work.  I’ll be on my Monster so I can claim my parking spot on Ducati Island :)

(http://thumb.ibb.co/fDy7U6/35_F3_A960_98_EE_4228_805_A_BC0_A295_DA163.jpg) (http://ibb.co/fDy7U6)
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: bettythebear on January 14, 2018, 09:51:30 AM
I'll meet up with you guys for bbq. It's only a mile or so from the house. I'm not a MotoGP fan, so won't be going to the track at all.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 03, 2019, 08:45:11 PM
DArren and I will be at the Rodeway, coming on Thursday.

Mike JP is the local.

Paul from Houston will be there on Sunday.

A spineframer is riding his Beemer from AZ.

Let's do a confirm and contact. 

Thursday night is the Ducati party at the dealer, Dovi should be there.  AF1 Aprilia/Guzzi usually does something, not sure when.  We're planning a meet up at Black's BBQ in Lockhart on Saturday after quals and then to the Hand Built Show in Austin.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on April 03, 2019, 08:47:19 PM
Get Dovi's autograph for me!!  :bow:
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 03, 2019, 10:13:15 PM
Get Dovi's autograph for me!!  :bow:

I've already got one.   

(https://g2.img-dpreview.com/93F1C1A7412249DCAA9E7F7A4F717967.jpg)

but I know someone really important

(https://g2.img-dpreview.com/5DF102050781461A8E318C8DB633E695.jpg)

Maynard G Krebs
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on April 03, 2019, 10:17:31 PM
 :laugh: :laugh:

DT moving from Flat track to COTA!  Screaming around turn 1 on the Jackal, he heads downhill thru the first chicane, and before you know it, he's leaning thru Turn 15 scraping both sides and headed to the big sweeper before rounding turn 19 and heading past the grandstands.

Go Dusty Go! 

Looking forward to a competitive race this year...hopefully it will be a bump and grind fest and not a runaway as it has been for the prior years.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 03, 2019, 10:19:32 PM
:laugh: :laugh:

DT moving from Flat track to COTA!  Screaming around turn 1 on the Jackal, he heads downhill thru the first chicane, and before you know it, he's leaning thru Turn 15 scraping both sides and headed to the big sweeper before rounding turn 19 and heading past the grandstands.

Go Dusty Go! 

................... ...................

OMG, I am closing my eyes............... ..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hang on Maynard !
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: jdgretz on April 04, 2019, 02:19:45 AM
I'm fortunate enough to have friends and riding buddies in both Austin and San Antonio.  I get to stay there for free.  Unfortunately, my schedule will not allow me to be there this year.  Maybe next time.

jdg
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: guzzi771 on April 04, 2019, 08:37:23 PM
I live near the track and if I was you I would look in south austin ,Buda or San Marcos best bet would be san marcos and take 130 to cota
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: guzzi771 on April 04, 2019, 08:44:10 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/pZL4M53/IMG-3151.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pZL4M53)
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 04, 2019, 09:12:39 PM
Just a reminder.  Dinner on Saturday at Black's BBQ in Lockhart after the track action is done.  Then to the Hand Built Show in Austin.

Looks like a few us will be there for dinner.

https://www.blacksbbq.com/lockhart.html

https://revivalcycles.com/handbuilt-motorcycle-show
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 04, 2019, 10:30:46 PM
It looks like Hand Built Show has changed location and now has $15 admission.  It's been moved to the Statesman newspaper south of the river.   dunno 

I am open to alternatives   :huh:
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on April 05, 2019, 09:47:10 AM
(https://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=376861&d=1552754778&thumb=1)


7th Annual Moto GP Party is Friday April 12th 2019 7pm-11pm CST
[Privacy Badger has replaced this Facebook Like button.]
by Steve / AF1 Racing
Published on 03-16-2019 11:43 AM
0 Comments Comments


The AF1 Racing GP Party is now in its 7th year!

Our Open Invitation party will have:

    FREE Beer*
    FREE Spirits*
    Taco Trucks*
    Music
    Raffle Prizes*
    And more!



Be warned: Although parking is plentiful for bikes, it is very limited for cars. Fortunately, we are only a 15-minute ride from downtown, so enjoy your complimentary beverages, and take advantage of one of Austin's many ride-sharing apps. We have Uber, Lyft, Ride Austin, and ATX Coop Taxi to choose from!

No need to RSVP, this is an open invitation to the entire Aprilia family to join in our celebration of Aprilia's 2019 Grand Prix Racing effort!

*while supplies last



As always, this AF1 Racing event is rated PG and is open to Aprilia fans of all ages.

Further event details will be added in the coming weeks, so keep your eye on this page!

If you have any questions about this event please email us.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on April 05, 2019, 09:49:11 AM
Are you coming down to Moto GP as well Chris?
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on April 05, 2019, 09:52:02 AM
Negative...this year's budget cuts compel judicious utilization of available funds now that I'm supporting both a Guzzi and a MINI habit!  :grin:
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on April 05, 2019, 11:18:11 AM
 :thumb: :thumb:  Priorities!   Well, if you come down, I was going to suggest you route first to my house, and we head over to Fayetteville on the way up thru La Grange and then to Austin. 

Good huckleberry pies at Orsak's in FAyetteville! 

 :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: bettythebear on April 05, 2019, 12:29:51 PM
I'll probably meet up at Black's with yall on Sat.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 05, 2019, 01:26:57 PM
:thumb: :thumb:  Priorities!   Well, if you come down, I was going to suggest you route first to my house, and we head over to Fayetteville on the way up thru La Grange and then to Austin. 

Good huckleberry pies at Orsak's in FAyetteville! 

 :thumb: :thumb:

oZark eUro rAid.

https://www.ozarkratraid.com/

Harrison ARK,  30 May - 2 Jun
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: ssrealty on April 05, 2019, 08:47:38 PM
Are you coming down to Moto GP as well Chris?

I will be attending MotoGP Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I have Ducati Island passes and will be riding my two Ducatis and parking in the Ducati Island section. Last year this was at turn one near the main grandstand.

I will be attending Thursday Ducati Austin event and AF1 Friday night event. Hope to see some of you there.

I saw note about BBQ at Black's on Saturday after track events. The last event on Saturday is at 16:15- Motoamerica Superbike. It is 15 laps (approximately 30 minutes). Is everyone heading to Blacks after the 16:15 race? If this is the plan, we could meet at the entry/exit to Ducati Island?
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 08, 2019, 09:37:25 PM
the Black's BBQ get together will expand beyond all space and time (but 5:30 pm should be pretty close).  Plenty of Italian rides like Guzzis and Ducs, a "new song of the sausage creature"  and perhaps a big Yamaha.   

the weather might play into it.  But I'll be there rain or shine.   I'll be on the a red bike with a "steal your face" emblem on a silver helmet.

Saturday !!!!   Saturday !!!!!!!! Saturday !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   Saturday !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


BE THERE


(https://g2.img-dpreview.com/E4ECE404E2E746F0B464AD1647732B0D.jpg)


IT's Goona BE Huuuugeeeeeeeeeeeee
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on April 08, 2019, 10:02:09 PM
But of course...a strategically placed Grateful Dead sticker!  Way to go!!
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 08, 2019, 10:27:01 PM
But of course...a strategically placed Grateful Dead sticker!  Way to go!!

Got it from Springfield (MO) John.

Paul, any chance you can make Saturday?  "One More Saturday Night"   ................... Crank up that old Victrola, put on them rockin' shoes
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: PJPR01 on April 08, 2019, 11:11:26 PM
I'm sorely tempted to try and make it, but unfortunately I can't get away on Saturday - family commitments.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: bettythebear on April 09, 2019, 06:53:21 AM
I live about a mile away from Black's and usually only go in there once a year, most likely due to visiting friends/family. If I meet you guys there, that's it for the rest of the year, and I'll have to let the friends/family know I can't go again because of a bunch of Guzzi riders.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on April 09, 2019, 06:15:06 PM
Don't miss this if you are in the area!


(https://i.ibb.co/f95tWLD/4dad275d-7b2f-4f05-8a58-aac9f70dde3f.jpg) (https://ibb.co/f95tWLD)



https://mailchi.mp/af1racing/af1-racings-6th-annual-gp-party-520093?e=3e97fe1586
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 09, 2019, 09:36:36 PM
Thanks for the reminder Chris.

1.  AUstin Ducati Party is Thursday evening (expect to see GP riders Dovi and Petrucci)

2.  AF1 Aprilia/Guzzi is Friday.

3.  Saturday is the Black's BBQ in Lockhart get together, probably 5:30-6:00 showup. 

4.  Also Saturday is the Handbuilt Show, looks like they moved to the Statesman Newspaper + $$ admission.. . (maybe we can get a confirmation?)

anyone traveling there and want to meet up or get more instructions, PM and we can exchange phone numbers.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: Darren Williams on April 10, 2019, 06:20:58 AM
I am so ready to head down there, mentally. Physically I need to get started getting ready.
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 30, 2019, 03:28:20 PM
I thought I'd share a few photos

Winner

(https://g2.img-dpreview.com/8656AB7D34A947D1B5096BE76DC5B3D3.jpg)

Favorite

(https://g4.img-dpreview.com/F3EAD63D073D4B9598D86229C0841F73.jpg)

GOAT

(https://g4.img-dpreview.com/85A17ABDFC9C4168889257AD1A0B0E3E.jpg)
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: twowings on April 30, 2019, 07:17:42 PM
Really nice pics, John! I don't know how he does it, but Marquez even manages to fall spectacularly! LOL
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 30, 2019, 07:39:04 PM
thanks Chris
Title: Re: Hotel/Motel Recommendations near COTA
Post by: LowRyter on April 30, 2019, 09:54:46 PM
Stonehenge in Texas

(https://g4.img-dpreview.com/ADED3B2713E64C51B524FD21FF4AFD18.jpg)