Tips on catching the Canadian Grand Prix...

[polak]

So me and a few buddies are planning on catching some F1 in Montreal this year. Has anyone here attended or maybe been in town during the event? Any tips?

I've personally never been in Montreal but the people I'm going with have so I'm sure that we as a group will have a pretty set idea as to what we will be doing outside of the race festivities. I'm more interested in what to expect from the race and the race related shenanigans as I heard that the vibe in Montreal during F1 weekend puts the Stampede to shame?

Any tips on tickets?

Thanks in advance!

[Table 5]

The vibe in Montreal on a regular summer Friday tends to put the Stampede to shame. It's a fantastically fun city that always seems to have a festival going on.

I have nothing to add to this thread, other than seeing the Grand Prix there is one of my life goals as well. Unfortunately, every time I look into it, I'm scared off by the crazy high prices to attend.

[polak]

Originally Posted by Table 5

The vibe in Montreal on a regular Friday tends to put the Stampede to shame. It's a fantastically fun city.

I have nothing to add to this thread, other than seeing the Grand Prix there is one of my life goals as well. Unfortunately, every time I look into it, I'm scared off by the crazy high prices to attend.

$300 for bronze seats isn't too bad in my mind? Get to sit on a turn.

The hotel will be pricey from the looks of things but we'll "rough it" and share rooms.

[TimSJ]

we go just about every year.

Hotels are crazy they rape you but it is worth it ot stay downtown somewhere as that really is where all the action is. We have stayed the last few years at Place D'Armes. Same hotel as the Reb Bull Guys and has a great little rooftop bar.

Crescent and St Laurant are basically shut down during Grand Prix weekend and lots to see. Great bars, cars, food, women etc in Montreal.

Thursday night we usually try to go to Cavalli, Friday a friend of mine usually has a party so we go there and then to MED, Saturday night it varies,

Seats,

We have sat a number of places my personal favorite is up fairly high in the stands at the hairpin.

We usually took a cab to the track in the morning and subway back to downtown at the end of the day.

My favorite weekend of the year!

[CubicleGeek]

Go the week leading into F1 weekend - it is much like our stampede, lots of things happening on the streets, cafes, restaurants, and bars are really bustling that week.

The different car manufacturers will lease out entire streets and squares to show case their cars for the week. You will also see groups like the Ferrari owner's clubs and Lambo owner's clubs lease out areas in downtown where members can go show off their cars. You get to see some real gems - I had the opportunity to see a Ferrari 512TR in real life for the first time at the Ferrari owner's club who blocked off an entire side street.

Book hotels now - they likely are already sold out for 2013 Montreal Grand Prix. If you can get in, I echo the comment above concerning booking somewhere downtown - that is where all the action is. Shuttle to the track during race day(s).

[username]

I went a couple of years ago - it's unbelieveable. Just be prepared to spend a lot of money.

I'd suggest doing the supper clubs every night but make sure you've booked well in advance. Also ask about keeping your table the whole night so you can get some bottles too.

As for the race, this goes without saying but it needs to be repeated - bring ear plugs! It's incredible how loud those cars are. Also there's a beer gardens (the big rig I believe) that's a lot of fun when you're not watching the cars.