Want to learn more about Montreal and the Canadian Grand Prix before checking out the seating options? Check out our other articles - including on and off the track activity suggestions in the region!
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*Almost anywhere on the track except for in front of grandstands and near Grandstands 11 and 12 is General Admission - some views are better than others*
As a general admission ticket-holder, you have access to a TON of viewpoints around the circuit. These tickets DO NOT have reserved seating and there isn’t shade or coverings to protect you from the sun or the rain. There is a HUGE variety of viewpoints with people watching from stairs, from walkways in the 'woods' along the water, and in any crevasse that they can stand in. Fans are allowed to bring in foldable chairs or seat cushions into the circuit which will make the experience much more enjoyable. Depending on where you are standing, you may or may not have a good view of a screen, but even then those areas are limited. For that reason, many General Admission ticket-holders show up at gates and head to the hairpin area where the screens are quite large and are visible from many vantage points.
Due to the extreme weather conditions that the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve can experience, you may encounter everything from mud slides to bug swarms in these areas, but for the energy of the track and exciting race - this ticket may be worth it to a die-hard fan.
Depending on where you stand on either side of Grandstand 24 (near Grandstand 15 or Grandstand 46), you will have a view of the hairpin exit and exit straight. If you're early enough you can even snag a view of the screens in the hairpin or across from 46. These areas are muddy and on a hill, so be aware of mud if the track is wet. Additionally, between 15 and 24, there is a small elevated walkway that people choose to sit on for a better vantage point, but this fills up quickly
This is also a very popular GA section due to its view of the screen across the track. While you won't see a ton of action because this area is barely elevated, you will essentially be standing or sitting on top of the cars on track. This area also has a few benches for relaxing if you did not bring a chair.
This is CLEARLY a very popular GA section. While it is small, the view is one of the best in general admission, directly on turn 6 with a view of the big screen across the way. If you want a direct view of possible action on track - line up early and beeline for this section. There is no elevation unless you stand on a random concrete block (pictured), so don't expect to get a good view unless you're early.
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This general admission area is popular due to its proximity to the track. You are mere meters from the cars.... But the best part.... You are the only section with a view of the Wall of Champions.
If I had General Admission this is where I would stand. You may not have a view of a ton of action, but you will have a view of the paddock building, start finish straight, and entrance to the pits. There are also screens with loud audio. This is a TREK to get to (about 25 - 30 minutes), but the view and lack of mud is worth it.
In general the Canadian GP boasts some of the most robust fan zones in at least North America. There are giant sponsor fan zones from Monster Energy, Bell, and Heineken as well as smaller ones that are more for relaxing such as the Beach Zone, AMEX Lounge (you could design your own car here!), and along the river. In the experience of a two-time attendee, the activations are fun but the track itself feels more like one giant fan zone due to the environment and type of fan who attends the Canadian GP.
In the more traditional fan zones hosted by Heineken, Bell, and Monster, there was a plethora of activities including a skating half pipe, seating, DJs, large screens, special games, hair styling stations (I was shocked at this as well), and food and drink specials! There were also small playgrounds throughout the circuit for children!
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Grandstand 1 is a VERY large grandstand that is situated directly in front of the paddock and pits of the Canadian Grand Prix. It offers views of the start/ finish straight, podium and the entirety of the paddock building itself. Unlike many other tracks, the grandstands at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve are essentially directly on the track with minimal room between the gate/track and the first row - this means your view is VERY close. From row NN - we could see directly into the Ferrari Garage, all the way to the back entrance.
The seats in Grandstand 1 are individual and not metal benches, so seat cushions are not necessary. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There are multiple large TV screens along the paddock building with audio, but please note most of the commentary is in French with only some English translation. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 1 is very far away from the main entrance near the metro, so plan for a 30 - 40 minute walk. If you are entering through the Casino (parking), it will still be a 15 - 20 minute walk. Luckily, there are a number of food, beverage, and restroom options directly behind the grandstand, so you don't have to leave this area once you arrive.
NOTE: Drivers did their interviews directly in front of the grandstand, which is a very unique experience!
Grandstand 16 is a VERY small grandstand that is situated directly at the beginning of the start/finish straight of the Canadian Grand Prix directly next to Grandstand 1. It offers views of the exit of the final turn start/ finish straight and lower ranked teams garages. Unlike many other tracks, the grandstands at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve are essentially directly on the track with minimal room between the gate/track and the first row - this means your view is VERY close.
The seats in Grandstand 16 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. This grandstand only had rows AA - PP. There are multiple large TV screens along the paddock building with audio, but please note most of the commentary is in French with only some English translation. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 16 is very far away from the main entrance near the metro, so plan for a 30 - 40 minute walk. If you are entering through the Casino (parking), it will still be a 15 - 20 minute walk. Luckily, there are a number of food, beverage, and restroom options directly behind the grandstand, so you don't have to leave this area once you arrive.
Grandstand 11 is a VERY large grandstand that is situated along the first turns of the Canadian Grand Prix. You will have views of the end of the start/finish straight, exit of the pit lane, Turns 1 and 2, and the straight leading into Turn 3. This grandstand is often considered one of the BEST for fans looking for action. However, due to its size certain sections will have different views. Sections 1 - 4 will have the most direct view of the start/finish, pit exit, and first turns but a further view than sections 5 - 7 of the straight and turn 3. While, sections 5 - 7 will have an obstructed view of Turn 1 and the start/finish straight but a better view of the straight leading into turn 3.
The seats in Grandstand 11 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is a large TV screen near Section 5 with audio, but please note most of the commentary is in French with only some English translation. Sections 1 - 3 did not have a great view of this screen. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 11 is just as far away from the main entrance and metro as 1 and 16 , so plan for a 30 - 40 minute walk. If you are entering through the Casino (parking), it will still be a 15 - 20 minute walk. Luckily, there are a number of food, beverage, and restroom options directly behind the grandstand, so you don't have to leave this area once you arrive. This, in my opinion, was the best food and beverage area on the track as you also were next to the beach food options.
Grandstand 12 is a VERY tall, but shorter in length grandstand than 11. It is is situated along the first turns of the Canadian Grand Prix, next to 11 but at a different angle. You will have views of the end of the start/finish straight, exit of the pit lane, Turns 1 and 2, and the straight leading into Turn 3. This grandstand is often considered one of the BEST for fans looking for action, similarly to Grandstand 11. However, you will be at a different angle than Grandstand 11, so you have to turn your body to see the start/finish straight. The perk of this grandstand is that you will have a VERY direct view of Turns 1 and 2 including a far-away view of Turn 3 in Sections 1 - 3.
The seats in Grandstand 12 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is a TV screen very far away closer to Grandstand 11, so bring a radio or mobile device to follow along with track action. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 12 is just as far away from the main entrance and metro as 1 and 16 , so plan for a 30 - 40 minute walk. If you are entering through the Casino (parking), it will still be a 15 - 20 minute walk. Luckily, there are a number of food, beverage, and restroom options directly behind the grandstand, so you don't have to leave this area once you arrive. This, in my opinion, was the best food and beverage area on the track as you also were next to the beach food options.
Grandstand 32 is a mid-sized grandstand placed adjascent to the Family Grandstand along Turns 6 and 7. There are 5 sections, each of which have a very comparable view to each other of the straight leading into Turns 6 and 7. As you get higher in the grandstand, you will have a better view of the entrance and exit straights neighboring these turns. Even the lower rows of this grandstand are raised off of the ground, though, so you will have a great vantage point even if lower down.
The seats in Grandstand 32 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is a large TV screen facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 32 is not very far from the main entrance near the metro station. Once you enter the circuit, it's about a 15 minute walk through the main fan zone area. There were a few food and beverage options directly adjacent to the grandstand, but your best bet is to purchase your refreshments when walking through the main fan zone. There are port-a-potties behind this grandstand as well.
The Family Grandstand is a large grandstand placed adjacent to Grandstand 32 along Turns 6 and 7. Sections 1 - 4 have the best view of the track with a view of turns 6 and 7 as well as the straight leading into 6, while sections 5 - 7 have increasingly less of a view of the track - and no view of the straight. Opposed to what the name tells you, while there were more children in this grandstand, anyone is welcome and tickets are very affordable.
The seats in the Family Grandstand are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. Sections 3 - 7 in this grandstand only extend from AA - WW, but sections 1 and 2 are extremely tall and extend from AA - Z. There is are 2 large TV screens facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
The Family Grandstand is not very far from the main entrance near the metro station. Once you enter the circuit, it's about a 15 minute walk through the main fan zone area. There were a few food and beverage options directly adjacent to the grandstand, but your best bet is to purchase your refreshments when walking through the main fan zone. There are port-a-potties behind this grandstand as well.
Grandstand 31 is a VERY tall grandstand but only has 3 sections along Turns 8 and 9 - the chicane. This is the only grandstand that has a view of these turns and the cars essentially 'disappear' after Turn 9 under the grandstand. If you are seated in Section 1 closest to the river, you can see the straight leading into turns 8 and 9 directly which is a DRS zone!
The seats in Grandstand 31 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is a large TV screen facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 31 may be one of the easiest grandstands to access for fans from the main entrance of the circuit near the metro at only a 5 minute walk. You enter through the main Fan Zone ,so there are many refreshment options as well as restrooms. You are also adjacent to both the Heineken and Monster Energy fan zones (these may change from year to year). If you're looking for a quick in and out, this grandstand is for you!
Grandstand 21 is the first of many grandstands along the Epingle Hairpin. It has a view of the entrance of the hairpin and is quite a small grandstand - as well as oddly shaped likely due to foliage. There are sections 6 - 10 in the actual grandstand itself BUT sections 9 and 10 are very small with only a few rows and seats. Sections 6 - 8 have a great view of the large TV screen, while 9 and 10 may struggle to follow along with the sessions.
The seats in Grandstand 21 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. In this grandstand there are only seats A - Z (except for sections 9 and 10 explained above). Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 21 may be one of the easiest grandstands to access for fans from the main entrance of the circuit near the metro at only a 5-10 minute walk. While there are restrooms and scattered food options, your best bet for refreshments here is to start at the main Fan Zone near the entrance then move towards the grandstand after.
Grandstand 15 is the VERY tall grandstand located on the outside of the Epingle Hairpin, facing the track with views of the entire entrance and exit of the hairpin. While this may sound like a great view, the grandstand is pushed VERY far back from the track itself and the higher up you go, the further you are. Each of the 4 sections are equal in size and view, but if you choose to sit higher up bringing binoculars or another viewing device is recommended. On the other hand, the catch fencing obstructs the view of the bottom 10 - 15 rows (AA - KK), so sitting higher up is preferred. The main perk of this grandstand is that this is the slowest part of the track, so you will be able to get fantastic photos of the cars.
The seats in Grandstand 15 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is also a screen facing this section, but due to the distance of this grandstand from the track, it may be difficult to hear any commentary. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 15 is not very far from the entrance at a 15 minute walk, however you will have to fight against general admission ticketholders and those who are sitting in adjacent grandstands to enter and exit. Be prepared for MUD (if it rains) and heavy foot traffic. There are refreshments and restrooms to the left of the grandstand closer to the Lance Stroll Grandstand (24), but this is still a highly trafficked area, so lines are long.
Grandstand 24 or the Lance Stroll Grandstand is one of the largest grandstands at the circuit. It is directly between Grandstand 15 and 46 with views of the entire Epingle Hairpin from the side of the hairpin exit. This grandstand is definitely the 'best' in the hairpin area due to its sheer size and equal views of the track across all 13 of its sections. Sections 1 -3 and 11 - 13 may struggle to view the screen, but they will still have a great view of the entire hairpin (not pushed as far back from the track as Grandstand 15).
The seats in Grandstand 124 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 24 is slightly far from the entrance at a 15-20 minute walk, and you will have to fight against general admission ticketholders and those who are sitting in adjacent grandstands to enter and exit. Be prepared for MUD (if it rains) and heavy foot traffic. This is not a huge issue when it comes to refreshments and restrooms, though because there is a large 'fan zone' with food, drinks, merch, and port-a-potties directly behind this grandstand.
Grandstand 34 is a VERY tall grandstand but only has 4 sections along the INSIDE of the Epingle Hairpin. This grandstand is the exact opposite view of Grandstand 15 and they face each other. Every seat in this grandstand has an equal view with 1 and 2 being closer to the exit of the hairpin and 3 and 4 closer to the entrance. There is also a terrace attached to the grandstand as a more premium option.
The seats in Grandstand 34 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. NOTE that at this circuit, the row system is different than most tracks. Depending on the height of the grandstand double letters from AA - ZZ are lower and A - Z are higher. There is a TV screen facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions BUT as with Grandstand 15 the screen is very very far away and difficult to view. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 34 is also one of the easiest grandstands to access for fans from the main entrance of the circuit near the metro at only a 5 - 10 minute walk. There is a large food drink and restroom area directly beneath this grandstand, but this area is a major thru-way for a number of other grandstands, so it does get very crowded. The FanAmp team spent a lot of time in this area and recommend it for food/drinks and as a home base if you're seated near the hairpin area.
Grandstand 47 is a shorter grandstand with only has 4 sections along the exit of the Epingle Hairpin, facing Grandstand 46. The grandstand has a view of the straight exit of the hairpin and not much else, but there can be some action and overtaking seen here. Every seat will have a comparable view and the grandstand itself is right on top of the track. The Grandstand has interesting row lettering from AA - KK and then continuing A - P.
The seats in Grandstand 47 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. There is a TV screen facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions - the screen is best seen from Sections 3 and 4. The speakers are VERY loud here. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 47 is also one of the easiest grandstands to access for fans from the main entrance of the circuit near the metro at only a 5 - 10 minute walk. There is a large food drink and restroom area directly beneath this grandstand, but this area is a major thru-way for a number of other grandstands, so it does get very crowded. The FanAmp team spent a lot of time in this area and recommend it for food/drinks and as a home base if you're seated near the hairpin area.
NOTE this grandstand has an entrance to the track for the track invasion!
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Grandstand 46 is a long grandstand with 6 sections along the exit of the Epingle Hairpin, facing Grandstand 47. The grandstand has a view of the straight exit of the hairpin and in the distance, the entrance of the hairpin. Each seat will have a comparable view of the straight and the grandstand itself is right on top of the track. The closer you are to sections 1 - 3 the better view you will have of the hairpin itself but you will be further from the screen. The Grandstand has interesting row lettering from AA - KK and then continuing A - Z.
The seats in Grandstand 47 are metal benches, so seat cushions are recommended. There is a TV screen facing this grandstand with French and English audio for fans to follow along with the sessions - the screen is best seen from Sections 3 and 4. The speakers are VERY loud here. Canada is known for temperamental weather (it rained on and off all day and the grandstands were evacuated on Friday) and there is no covering on any grandstand - so prepare for the weather rain or shine.
Grandstand 47 is not a very difficult grandstand to access for fans from the main entrance of the circuit near the metro at only a 10 - 15 minute walk. There is a large food drink and restroom area directly across from this grandstand near Grandstands 47 and 34, but this area is a major thru-way for a number of other grandstands, so it does get very crowded. There are limited food options and restrooms behind this grandstand, as well.
NOTE your author has sat in this grandstand 2 years in a row and loves it!
We hope this guide is helpful!
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Be sure to check out our other Canadian Grand Prix articles to ensure you maximize your trip to Montreal!
