A Travel Guide to Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), located in Speedway, Indiana, just minutes from downtown Indianapolis, is an iconic destination dubbed “The Greatest Race Course in the World.” Home to the world-famous Indianapolis 500 and other major racing events, this historic 2.5-mile oval track, built in 1909, is a must-visit for motorsports enthusiasts and travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. Beyond racing, IMS offers a museum, guided tours, and a vibrant local scene, making it a bucket-list destination. Here’s your comprehensive guide to planning a visit.
Why Visit Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
IMS is a global motorsports landmark, hosting the Indy 500, the largest single-day sporting event in the world, attracting over 300,000 spectators annually. Its rich history, dating back to the first Indy 500 in 1911, includes legendary races like the Brickyard 400 and past events like the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. The Speedway’s “Kiss the Bricks” tradition, where winners kneel to kiss the historic brick finish line, adds to its allure. Whether you’re a racing fan, a history buff, or just curious, IMS offers thrilling experiences, from track tours to exploring the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.
How to Get There
IMS is located at 4790 W. 16th Street, Speedway, IN 46222, approximately 6 miles west of downtown Indianapolis.
By Car: Easily accessible via I-70 or I-465. The Speedway offers parking lots (free for museum visits, variable for events; typically $20–$50 on race days). Drive time from downtown Indianapolis is about 15–20 minutes. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility, especially if exploring nearby attractions.
By Public Transport: IndyGo Bus: Routes like 10 or 25 stop near 16th Street and Georgetown Road, a short walk from IMS. Fares are $1.75 one-way. Race Day Shuttles: During major events like the Indy 500, shuttles run from downtown Indianapolis (e.g., pickup at 10th and Polco Streets). Book in advance via the IMS website.
By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Uber or Lyft from downtown costs $15–25, depending on traffic. On race days, expect surge pricing and plan drop-off/pickup points in advance to avoid congestion.
By Air: Fly into Indianapolis International Airport (IND), 7 miles from IMS (15-minute drive). The airport is consistently rated among the best in the U.S., with car rentals, taxis, and rideshare options available.
Tip: On Indy 500 race day (Memorial Day weekend), traffic is heavy. Arrive early or use shuttles to avoid delays.
Best Time to Visit
Race Season (May–August): Indy 500 (Late May): The highlight, held annually on Memorial Day weekend, with practice sessions, qualifications, and festivities like the 500 Festival Parade and Snake Pit EDM concert. Expect crowds and higher prices. Brickyard 400 (July/August): A major NASCAR event, less crowded but still thrilling. Other Events: IMS hosts the IndyCar Grand Prix, vintage racing, and concerts throughout the year.
Off-Season (September–April): Ideal for museum visits and track tours with fewer crowds. The IMS Museum is open year-round, and guided tours are available most days (weather permitting).
Weather: Indianapolis has warm summers (70–85°F) and cold winters (20–40°F). Spring and summer are best for outdoor activities, but bring sunscreen and hats for race days. Check the IMS website for event schedules.
Tickets and Opening Hours
IMS Museum: Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (March–October); 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (November–February). Admission: $15 (adults), $14 (seniors 62+), $8 (youth 6–15), free for children under 5. Combo Tours: Museum + track tour packages start at $30.
Track Tours: Grounds Tour: $30 (includes museum entry), a 30-minute bus ride around the track with a stop to “Kiss the Bricks.” VIP Track Tour: $75, offers closer access and behind-the-scenes areas (seasonal, weather-dependent). Availability: Tours run daily but may be limited during race weeks. Book in advance via www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
Race Tickets: Prices vary: Indy 500 general admission starts at $40, reserved seats $75–$200+. Brickyard 400 tickets are typically $30–$150. Children 15 and under are free for general admission with a paying adult. Purchase online through the IMS website or authorized platforms like Ticketmaster.
Tip: Book race tickets and tours early, especially for the Indy 500, as they sell out quickly.
What to See and Do
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: Located in the infield, this world-class museum houses over 30 Indy 500-winning cars, racing memorabilia, and exhibits on motorsports history. Highlights include Ray Harroun’s 1911 Marmon Wasp and A.J. Foyt’s 1970 Coyote. Interactive displays and educational resources make it family-friendly.
Track Tours: Grounds Tour: Ride a bus around the 2.5-mile oval, learn about IMS history, and kiss the famous brick finish line. VIP Tour: Includes access to the media center, garage area, and victory podium (subject to availability). Two-Seater IndyCar Ride: For thrill-seekers, experience speeds up to 150 mph in a two-seat IndyCar ($199–$499, seasonal).
Kiss the Bricks Tradition: Participate in this iconic ritual at the start/finish line, a tradition started by NASCAR driver Dale Jarrett in 1996.
Brickyard Crossing Golf Course: A unique 18-hole course with four holes inside the IMS oval. Open to the public ($50–$100/round), it’s a fun activity for non-race days.
Event Days: Indy 500: Enjoy pre-race ceremonies, including the national anthem and flyovers, plus the high-energy Snake Pit concert. Other Events: Check the IMS calendar for car shows, vintage racing, or music festivals like the Legends Day Concert.
Explore Speedway Town: Stroll Main Street in Speedway (1 mile from IMS) for local eateries like Dawson’s on Main (steak and seafood) or Big Woods Speedway (craft beer). Visit The Spark for coffee or B. Erin Designs for race-themed gifts.
Where to Eat
On-Site: IMS has concession stands during events, offering burgers, hot dogs, and drinks ($5–15). Options are limited on non-race days.
Nearby (Main Street, Speedway): Dawson’s on Main: Midwest comfort food, famous for its Hoosier tenderloin ($15–30). Big Woods Speedway: Brewpub with craft beers and pub fare ($10–20). The Tamale Place (2.2 miles): Affordable Mexican tamales ($8–15).
Downtown Indianapolis (10-minute drive): Try St. Elmo Steak House for its iconic shrimp cocktail or Bluebeard for farm-to-table dining.
Tip: For race days, you can bring coolers (max 18”x15”x15”, no glass) with snacks and drinks, including alcohol, to save money.
Where to Stay
Speedway Area: Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis West-Speedway: Modern, close to IMS (5-minute drive), $100–$200/night. Speedway Legacy Inn: Boutique guesthouse with a racing theme, $80–$150/night.
Downtown Indianapolis (6 miles away): Conrad Indianapolis: Luxury with art-inspired decor, $200–$400/night. Omni Severin Hotel: Historic charm, recently renovated, $150–$300/night. Hotel Indy: Boutique with a rooftop lounge, $120–$250/night.
Camping at IMS: Available during race weekends (Thursday–Sunday) in the Infield or West Zone. Includes electrical hookups and 6 general admission wristbands. Rates start at $100/night. Book via the IMS website.
Tip: Book accommodations early for Indy 500 weekend, as hotels and campsites fill up months in advance.
Tips for a Great Visit
Plan for Race Days: Arrive 3–4 hours early for major events to secure parking and explore vendors. Bring earplugs, sunscreen, and ponchos (weather can be unpredictable). Museum and Tours: Visit on non-race days for a quieter experience. Check tour schedules, as some areas are inaccessible during events.
Accessibility: IMS offers wheelchair-accessible seating, golf cart shuttles, and handicapped parking for ADA placard holders. Eco-Friendly Note: Smoking is prohibited except in designated camping areas. Pets are not allowed, except service animals.
Combine Your Trip: Pair IMS with nearby attractions like the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (world’s largest, 10 miles away), White River State Park, or Eiteljorg Museum for a full Indianapolis experience.
Final Thoughts
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is more than a racetrack—it’s a celebration of speed, history, and Hoosier hospitality. Whether you’re cheering at the Indy 500, kissing the bricks, or exploring the museum’s iconic cars, IMS offers an exhilarating experience for all. Plan ahead, embrace the energy of race day, or enjoy the calm of an off-season visit to this motorsports mecca.
Happy travels.
