F1 Arcade to open in River North at former Rock Bottom site

The world's first official Formula 1 hospitality concept will feature racing simulators, a rooftop terrace, and specialty cocktails.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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After three years of idling, the former Rock Bottom Brewery at State Street and Grand Avenue in Chicago's River North neighborhood will reopen this summer as F1 Arcade, a 20,000-square-foot, two-story Formula 1-themed entertainment venue. The space will feature 70 full-motion racing simulators, a rooftop terrace, the Octane Bar, globally-inspired food and specialty cocktails, plus official F1 watch parties for all 24 Grand Prix races.

Why it matters

Local business leaders say the new F1 Arcade concept will boost tourism and nightlife in the River North area, which has seen several recent vacancies filled, including by fashion retailer Mango and immersive magic venue The Hand and The Eye. The addition of F1 Arcade is expected to further transform and energize the neighborhood.

The details

The two-story F1 Arcade space will feature 70 full-motion racing simulators, a rooftop terrace, the Octane Bar, and a menu of globally-inspired food and specialty cocktails designed by a winner of Netflix's Drink Masters. The experience will allow fans of all skill levels to race on real Grand Prix courses, with a much more immersive feel than a typical F1 video game. The venue will also host official Formula 1 Watch Parties for all 24 Grand Prix races.

  • This summer, the former Rock Bottom Brewery at State Street and Grand Avenue will reopen as F1 Arcade.
  • When it launches, the arcade will operate seven days a week, with entry limited to guests 21 and over after 7 p.m.

The players

F1 Arcade

The world's first official Formula 1 hospitality concept, an experience-driven venue featuring cutting-edge racing simulators, a rooftop terrace, and Chicago-inspired specialty cocktails.

Liz Norris

Vice President of Brand for F1 Arcade.

Jon Gardner

President of global development for F1 Arcade.

Kimberly Bares

President and CEO of The Magnificent Mile Association.

Sam Toia

President of the Illinois Restaurant Association.

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What they’re saying

“All you have to do is love to be a little bit competitive, enjoy great food, great drink, and you can also start to get into the tribe of F1 fandom.”

— Liz Norris, Vice President of Brand, F1 Arcade (fox32chicago.com)

“If you picture Vegas vibes, replace all the slot machines with racing simulators — full-motion — and it's matched with a menu that is inspired globally from the food around all the Grand Prix. And a cocktail list designed by winner of Netflix Drink Masters, so LP O'Brien created cocktails that inspired her from the F1 stories.”

— Liz Norris, Vice President of Brand, F1 Arcade (fox32chicago.com)

“This is our bespoke game, we have eight tracks available to race, and you can only experience this at an F1 arcade.”

— Liz Norris, Vice President of Brand, F1 Arcade (fox32chicago.com)

“Chicago is a city that thrives on energy, competition and unforgettable experiences, which makes it a natural home for F1 Arcade.”

— Jon Gardner, President of global development, F1 Arcade (fox32chicago.com)

“It will be a terrific addition to that area. The proximity to the Red Line will certainly be a draw. I think it's another feather in our cap.”

— Kimberly Bares, President and CEO, The Magnificent Mile Association (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

Official opening details for F1 Arcade are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The takeaway

The addition of F1 Arcade to Chicago's River North neighborhood is expected to further transform and energize the area, bringing a new high-energy entertainment option that combines racing simulators, global cuisine, and specialty cocktails to attract both locals and tourists.