Toyota Grand Prix: To-Dos Beyond the Track

The Lifestyle Expo and live tunes keep things humming away from the roar of the engines.

Getting caught up in the racing action at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach is exactly why hundreds of thousands of spectators turn out for this world-famous, on-the-streets, engine-powered extravaganza each spring.

But the Grand Prix scene is so out-sized, with so many moving components -- much like a car, really -- that there is a whole happening scene away from the bleachers and machines of speed.

That means that if you're there for race action but need a break, or you're attending with Grand Prix-loving pals but you're not quite at their level of involvement, you can still wile away your day while some of the world's most famous drivers go for record-breaking runs along Seaside Way.

The Lifestyle Expo is a major off-the-circuit stop for visitors. Sprawling over a goodly portion of the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, the Expo features over 150 displays covering a wide, gamut-y look at Green Tech, home improvements, travel destinations, and beyond. And, yep, the Green Tech definitely includes what's going on with alt autos, from electric to hydrogen (hybrid and biodiesel are in the mix, too).

Have kids in tow? There's a Family Fun Zone that's also held at the center, as a part of the Expo. Look for "rock climbing walls, games, video games and racing simulators and action sports demonstrations." 

And the two nights of live music roll on Friday and Saturday nights, April 17 and 18. Friday gets moving with the Tecate Light Fiesta Friday Concert and Saturday's show features Vince Neil of Mötley Crüe. 

So, for sure, catch a race (or catch 'em all). But what's circuit-adjacent? Plenty. The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach vrooms from Friday, April 17 through Sunday, April 19.

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