Mercedes F1 Racing Team
72 Hours in Miami
By Amber Kallor
Beach
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Get up to speed on the hottest spots to hit during the Miami Grand Prix. 

Formula One is bringing the heat to South Florida once again for the Miami Grand Prix. This high-octane event centered around Hard Rock Stadium is a nonstop party filled with food, music, and, of course, world-class racing. In addition to the circuit that boasts 19 corners and speeds up to 320 kilometers per hour, the Miami International Autodrome features a man-made beach, a yacht-filled marina, and the world’s largest outdoor art gallery.

While there is certainly no shortage of action at the track, Lewis Hamilton, legendary driver for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, says that this coastal city is a great place to chill and soak up the sun. If you can’t get behind the wheel of a racecar, Hamilton’s teammate, George Russell, suggests driving a few balls at one of the amazing golf courses in the area.

Once you’re ready to wind down, escape to The Ritz-Carlton in South Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Bal Harbour, Coconut Grove, or Key Biscayne. For Alexandra Adeniya, Senior Partnership Manager for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, nothing beats the tropical serenity of The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour. “It’s in North Miami Beach and a bit tucked away, so you can retreat from the hectic hustle and bustle of South Beach,” she says. “You also have access to the ocean, which for me, is essential!”

Whether you’re hoping to sneak in some beach time or check out Miami’s epic party scene, Adeniya has the inside track on where to go and what to see while you’re in town.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour
What was it like to attend last year’s inaugural Miami Grand Prix?

“It was my first Grand Prix with the team and it was spectacular. The atmosphere in the city was electrifying—people definitely knew that Formula One was in town. It was a celebration! A special moment for me was hosting Michelle Obama in The Ritz-Carlton Silver Arrows Lounge. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

What are you looking forward to most at this year’s event?

“We’re hosting a party with Marriott Bonvoy and The Ritz-Carlton at the South Beach property. It’s going to be the place to be on Friday night and definitely a guest list you want to be on!”

Where is the best place to watch the race?

The Ritz-Carlton Silver Arrows Lounge guarantees you visibility of the track and a premium experience. We also have a local mixologist creating signature cocktails for our guests. This space is exclusive to our team partners who love hosting guests and clients there—it’s the place to be! Last year we also introduced the Silver Arrows Miami Club, it’s a vibrant atmosphere inspired by the Miami Beach social scene. I recommend getting a ticket while they last.”

Alexandra Adeniya

The Ritz-Carlton, Bal-Harbour is in North Miami Beach and a bit tucked away, so you can retreat from the hectic hustle and bustle. You also have access to the ocean, which for me, is essential!

Woman laying on sun lounger on beach by the water
Do you have any pre-race rituals?

“I’m not really a ritualistic person. I like each day to be different depending on my obligations or mood. However, during a race weekend, I’ll do anywhere between six to ten miles of walking per day. It’s important to stay well rested and hydrated.”

What fuels you on race day?

“Adrenaline!”

How do you celebrate post-race?

“I’m privileged to visit some incredible cities with the team. In Miami, you have to head to one of the after-parties!”

Miami Design District
Beach Daybed
Outside of the Grand Prix event, what do you love most about visiting Miami?

“My family. I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Miami from a young age to visit my aunt and cousins. I feel at home when I am in Miami. There’s a sense of familiarity amongst the chaos!”

Are there any must-see sites?

“Calle Ocho [Southwest 8th Street] in Little Havana is a great spot to head down to for Cuban cuisine. You can often find live music, food trucks, and market stalls on the street during the weekend. The Miami Art and Fashion scene is also ever-present. It’s important to visit the Miami Design District and Wynwood if you have the time. There’s so much to see! You need at least a week.”

If you had one day off in Miami, what would you do?

“I like to take it easy on my days off, so I’d start the day with a walk along the oceanfront and grab a private cabana on the beach at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. Miami is famous for its nightlife and you’d definitely find me at a few parties!”  

Outdoor Pool
What is the best meal you've ever had in Miami?

“Miami is a melting pot of cultures. These communities are what make Miami what it is and food is central to that. My most memorable meals have all been from a food truck.”

Where do you go to get away from the hustle and bustle of race weekend?

“We are lucky enough to have The Ritz-Carlton as our official hotel partner. At the end of a long day at the track, I like to retreat to my room, throw on a robe and slippers, and order in-room dining!”