A Guide To Indianapolis Motor Speedway

1. Things to do / Highlights

Watch the legendary Indy 500 race

Watching the greatest spectacle in racing, the Indianapolis 500, is the topmost thing to do here. Soak in the action and energy as 33 drivers do 200 laps of the legendary circuit, amounting to 500 miles, all for the ultimate prize of being the winner of Indy 500.

Visit IMS Museum

Also housing IMS Hall of Fame, IMS Museum houses artefacts, memorabilia, interactive exhibits and other objects related to automotive racing history, specifically the Indy 500. Take a tour of the museum and experience the history of this magical sport.

Drive a real Indy 500 car

Feel the adrenaline rush as you drive a real NTT IndyCar Series around the famed Indy 500 circuit - one that has competed in the famed Indy 500. This amazing opportunity is available to visitors via one of the on-track experiences of IMS.

2. What to eat

Brickyard Smokehouse

Located in the IMS premises is Brickyard Crossing, a stunning golf course. Situated within this golf course is Brickyard Smokehouse, a restaurant that serves delicious barbecue food. Try their beef brisket, cheeseburger, pulled pork sandwich, and onion rings accompanied by yummy drinks.

Mug n Bun

Situated just a three-minute drive away is the vintage drive-in restaurant of Mug n Bun that is more than 50 years old. Tuck into their scrumptious tenderloins, pizza, and their famous homemade root beer.

3. What to buy

A trip to this legendary racing venue is incomplete without some souvenir shopping. Hop on over to their gift shop located in IMS Museum for a range of amazing merchandise.

Miniature milk bottle

As per tradition, instead of champagne, Indy 500 winners douse themselves in milk. And what better way to take this tradition home than with a miniature milk bottle souvenir. Emblazoned with the Indy 500 logo, this milk bottle makes for a great addition to your souvenir collection or a great gift for a racing fan.

Indy 500 car diecast figure

Another nice thing to buy at the shop is a 1:18 diecast figure of an Indy 500 car either of the current year winner or one of the past legendary winners. Buy it for your kids or make it a part of your prized diecast car collection.

4. Travelers tips

Wheelchair accessibility

There are several wheelchair-accessible seats and spaces and companion seats available at the venue. In addition, the venue also provides assistance golf carts and elevators at various locations for guests in a wheelchair.

Permitted and prohibited items

It would be worthwhile to note that several items are prohibited to enter through the gates of the venue like selfie sticks, lasers, pets (except service animals), glass containers, and drones. However, food and beverages, flags, and umbrellas are allowed. Refer to the full list here.

Camping and Tailgating policy

RV and tent camping is permitted in and around the venue at several appointed lots and on various surfaces like grass, pavement, and gravel. As a classic American sports arena tradition, tailgating is indeed allowed at this venue too. But visitors must ensure that grilling is only done in small portable grills and in designated tailgating areas. Portable shelters must be secured to the vehicle, meet certain size specifications, and are put away by race start time.

5. How to get there

Drive

The venue is easily accessible via various interstate freeways like I-465, south and northbound I-65 and east and westbound I-70.

Taxi

One of the most convenient ways to travel to and from the venue on race day is by taxi. Local taxis will pick up and drop off visitors at 10th Street & Polco Street.

Rideshare

Another easy way to reach the venue on race day is via rideshare service. Drop-off and pickup point is at the corner of Main Street & Gilman Street.

Parking information

Depending upon your seating location, parking is available at different parking lots around the venue and on various surfaces like grass, dirt, gravel, and pavement. Parking spaces for guests with disabilities are also available. A detailed parking map is available here.

6. How to get tickets

The venue offers three different ways to purchase tickets to its events.

Official website

The best, easiest, and most reliable way to buy tickets is via their official website ticketing link.

At the ticket office

The second option is to visit the ticket office to purchase tickets in advance or on the day of the event, but the latter is not recommended because tickets may already be sold out.

Phone call

The third option is to call (800) 822-INDY (4639) or (317) 492-6700 to book tickets via phone.

Almost all modes of payment are accepted at the ticket office, and handling and service fees are already added to each order. It is highly advisable to steer clear of unauthorized vendors or those selling tickets online or outside the venue as these may be fraudulent.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Information

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Address: 4790 W. 16th St. Indianapolis, IN, 46222, United States

Opening hours: Non-event hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm | Office hours extend during events (closed on Sat & Sun)

Official Website: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Department of tourism: Visit Indy