How to Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, often referred to as “The Brickyard,” is one of the most iconic and historic motorsport venues in the world. Located in Speedway, Indiana, just outside Indianapolis, this 2.5-mile oval track has hosted legendary races since 1909, including the Indianapolis 500, the IndyCar Series, and the NASCAR Brickyard 400. For racing enthusiasts, history buffs, and casual tourists alike, visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is more than a day trip—it’s a pilgrimage to the heart of American motorsport culture.

Whether you’re planning to attend a race, take a guided tour, or simply explore the grounds, knowing how to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway effectively can transform a good experience into an unforgettable one. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate logistics, maximize your visit, avoid common pitfalls, and uncover hidden gems that most visitors overlook. From ticket acquisition and parking to behind-the-scenes access and seasonal events, this tutorial ensures you’re fully prepared to make the most of your time at this hallowed ground.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Your Purpose for Visiting

Before making any travel arrangements, clarify your reason for visiting. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers vastly different experiences depending on your intent:

• Race Attendance: If you’re attending a race like the Indianapolis 500, the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, or a NASCAR event, your planning must begin months in advance.
• Guided Tour: The Speedway offers daily guided tours for non-race days, which include access to the garages, victory lane, and the Pagoda.
• Self-Guided Exploration: On select days, you can explore the museum and grounds independently.
• Special Events: The venue hosts car shows, fan festivals, weddings, and corporate events year-round.

Identifying your goal helps determine ticket type, timing, and what to pack. For example, racegoers need ear protection and weather-appropriate gear, while tour visitors should prioritize comfortable walking shoes.

2. Check the Official Event Calendar

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts events throughout the year, but not all dates are open to the public. Visit the official website—indianapolismotorspeedway.com—to review the annual calendar. Key events include:

• Indianapolis 500: Held on Memorial Day weekend (late May), this is the most famous race in the world and draws over 300,000 spectators.
• Brickyard 400 (NASCAR): Typically held in July, this event brings NASCAR fans to the oval.
• Big Machine Music City Grand Prix: A street circuit event held in August, featuring IndyCar drivers on a temporary road course.
• Formula 1 Grand Prix (Starting 2024): A new addition to the calendar, bringing international attention to the Speedway.
• IMS Museum and Tour Season: Open year-round, with extended hours during peak racing season.

Mark your calendar early. Races like the Indianapolis 500 sell out months ahead, and even tours have limited daily capacity.

3. Purchase Tickets or Tour Passes

Ticket types vary depending on your visit goal. Here’s how to secure access:

For Races:

General admission tickets are available for grandstand seating, while premium options include suites, club seats, and infield access. Prices range from $40 for basic grandstand seats to over $1,000 for VIP packages. Purchase directly through the official website to avoid third-party markups. Use the seat selection tool to choose your viewing location—southern turn (Turn 3) offers the best view of the start/finish line, while the frontstretch provides panoramic views of the entire track.

For Guided Tours:

Standard tours cost $25 for adults and $15 for children (ages 6–11). Children under 5 are free. Tour tickets can be bought online in advance or at the Ticket Office on the day of your visit, but advance purchase is strongly recommended. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (hours vary seasonally).

For Museum Access Only:

The IMS Museum is included with tour tickets. Standalone museum admission is $20 for adults and $10 for youth. The museum features over 400 racing artifacts, including championship-winning cars, driver memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.

Always print or save your digital ticket to your mobile device. QR codes are scanned at entry gates and tour check-in points.

4. Plan Your Transportation

The Speedway is located at 4790 West 16th Street, Speedway, IN 46241, approximately 7 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis. Access is straightforward but requires planning due to heavy traffic on event days.

Driving:

If driving, use GPS coordinates or enter “Indianapolis Motor Speedway” into your navigation app. Major access points include:

• I-70: Exit at Exit 70 (West 16th Street) and follow signs.
• I-465: Take Exit 23 (West 16th Street) and head east.
• US-31: Turn onto West 16th Street from the north or south.

On race days, parking is sold in designated lots. General parking is $20–$30 per vehicle. Premium parking (closer to gates) costs $50–$100. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the EV Parking Zone near Gate 1. Always arrive at least 2–3 hours before the event to avoid gridlock.

Public Transit:

IndyGo Route 8 (West 16th Street) runs near the Speedway and stops at the “Speedway Blvd & 16th St” station. This is a cost-effective option for non-race days. On major event days, special shuttle services operate from downtown Indianapolis, the airport, and nearby hotels. Check the Speedway’s official transportation page for updates.

Rideshare and Taxis:

Uber and Lyft drop-off/pick-up is located at Gate 3. During high-traffic events, wait times can exceed 45 minutes. Coordinate with your driver in advance and use the designated rideshare zone to avoid congestion.

5. Arrive Early and Prepare for Security

Security at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is rigorous, especially on race days. All bags are subject to search, and prohibited items include:

• Large bags (over 14” x 14” x 14”)
• Glass containers
• Alcohol (except in designated areas)
• Weapons of any kind
• Drones
• Professional camera equipment without press credentials

Clear bags (clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”) are permitted and recommended. Small clutch bags (no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”) are also allowed. Bring only essentials: wallet, phone, sunscreen, hat, and a small water bottle (empty until inside). Water refill stations are available throughout the venue.

Arriving early reduces stress and gives you time to explore the grounds, take photos at the iconic “Yard of Bricks,” and enjoy pre-race entertainment.

6. Explore the Grounds and Attractions

Once inside, don’t rush to your seat. The Speedway is a sprawling complex with numerous attractions:

• The Yard of Bricks: Located at the start/finish line, this 36-inch strip of original bricks from 1909 is the most photographed spot on the property. Touch the bricks for good luck.
• The Pagoda: The historic control tower where race officials monitor the action. Guided tours include access to the upper levels.
• The Museum of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Features the “Race Track” exhibit, “Driver’s Row,” and the “Indianapolis 500 History Gallery.” Don’t miss the 1911 winning car driven by Ray Harroun.
• Garage Area: On tour days, you can walk through the same garages where drivers prepare their machines.
• Victory Lane: Where champions celebrate. Many fans pose for photos under the famous “500” sign.
• Indianapolis 500 Hall of Fame: Honors the legends of the race, including A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, and Helio Castroneves.

Take your time. Many visitors spend 3–4 hours exploring even without attending a race.

7. Experience the Atmosphere

The energy at the Speedway is unlike any other sporting venue. On race day, the pre-race ceremonies are a spectacle:

• The singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana” before the green flag.
• The 33-car field parading around the track.
• The tradition of the winner drinking milk in Victory Lane.

Join in the chants. Wave the American flag. Learn the “500” hand gesture. Engage with fellow fans—you’re part of a global community that reveres this event.

8. Departure and Post-Visit Tips

After the event, exit calmly. Traffic exits are organized by gate and section. Follow posted signage and be patient—delays are common. If you drove, retrieve your vehicle from your assigned lot. If you used rideshare, confirm your pickup location via app.

Consider purchasing a keepsake from the Speedway Gift Shop—official merchandise includes apparel, collectible cars, and autographed memorabilia. You can also download digital photos taken during your visit through the official app.

Best Practices

1. Book Everything in Advance

Whether it’s a ticket, tour, or hotel, reserve early. The Indianapolis 500 sells over 300,000 tickets annually, and hotels in the area book up a year in advance. Use the official site’s calendar to plan your trip around non-race days if you want a quieter, more relaxed experience.

2. Dress for the Weather and the Event

Indiana weather is unpredictable. Even on race day, temperatures can swing 30 degrees between morning and afternoon. Layer clothing: wear a breathable base, a light jacket, and a wide-brimmed hat. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential—there’s minimal shade on the grandstands. Avoid flip-flops; you’ll be walking on concrete for hours.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart

Food and beverage prices inside the venue are high. Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at one of the free refill stations. Snacks like granola bars or trail mix are permitted in small quantities. If you plan to buy food, try the local favorites: Indiana pork tenderloin sandwiches, sweet corn on the cob, and milkshakes from the “Milk Bar” near Victory Lane.

4. Use the Official App

Download the “Indianapolis Motor Speedway” app before you arrive. It offers real-time updates on:

• Gate openings and closures
• Restroom locations
• Food truck menus
• Live race timing and leaderboards
• Interactive map of the grounds

The app also allows you to receive push notifications for schedule changes, weather alerts, and emergency updates.

5. Respect the Legacy

The Speedway is sacred ground for motorsport fans. Avoid climbing fences, touching race cars without permission, or blocking walkways. Take photos respectfully—many drivers and crew members are working hard behind the scenes. Remember: you’re not just a spectator; you’re a steward of history.

6. Consider a Non-Race Day Visit

Many visitors assume the Speedway is only worth visiting during race season. In reality, non-race days offer a more intimate experience. The crowds are smaller, the tours are more personalized, and you can spend hours absorbing the architecture, the silence of the empty track, and the stories etched into every brick.

7. Bring a Camera (But Know the Rules)

Personal cameras and smartphones are allowed. However, professional-grade equipment (long lenses, tripods, external microphones) requires media credentials. If you’re a content creator or blogger, apply for media accreditation well in advance through the Speedway’s media portal.

8. Engage with the Community

Join the official IMS Facebook group or Reddit community (r/IndianapolisMotorSpeedway) before your visit. Fans share tips on the best photo spots, parking hacks, and hidden food vendors. You’ll also find people looking for ride-sharing partners or tour buddies.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

indianapolismotorspeedway.com is your primary resource. It provides:

• Event schedules and ticket sales
• Interactive maps
• Weather and traffic advisories
• Accessibility information
• Guided tour descriptions and booking

Mobile App

The official IMS app (available on iOS and Android) is indispensable. Features include:

• Real-time GPS tracking of your location on the grounds
• Push notifications for delays or changes
• Digital ticket storage
• QR code scanning for entry
• Merchandise pre-orders for pickup

Google Earth and Street View

Use Google Earth to virtually explore the Speedway’s layout before you arrive. Street View lets you see the entrance gates, parking lots, and surrounding roads. This reduces disorientation upon arrival and helps you plan your walking route.

Maps.me and Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty inside the Speedway due to signal interference. Download offline maps using Maps.me or Google Maps’ offline feature. This ensures you can navigate without data.

Weather Apps

Use AccuWeather or the National Weather Service app to monitor conditions. Thunderstorms are common in Indiana during summer. If rain is forecast, bring a lightweight rain poncho—umbrellas are prohibited in grandstands.

Local Transit Resources

For public transit options, visit indygo.net. The site provides real-time bus tracking and route planning. Look for Route 8 and the special event shuttles during race weekends.

Historical Archives

For deep dives into Speedway history, visit the IMS Museum Digital Archive. It includes digitized race programs, driver interviews, and vintage photos from the 1910s to today.

Travel Blogs and YouTube Channels

Follow these trusted creators for firsthand insights:

• “The Brickyard Diaries” (YouTube): A fan’s vlog series covering every aspect of IMS visits.
• “IndyCar Insider” (Blog): Detailed race previews and behind-the-scenes stories.
• “MotorMouth” (Podcast): Interviews with former drivers and crew members.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Racegoer

Emily, a 28-year-old from Chicago, had never been to a live race. She purchased a $50 grandstand ticket for the 2023 Indianapolis 500 through the official site. She booked a hotel in downtown Indianapolis and took the event shuttle to the Speedway. Arriving three hours early, she took the guided tour, visited the museum, and snapped photos at the Yard of Bricks. She brought a clear bag with sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. During the race, she joined the crowd in singing “Back Home Again in Indiana.” She left with a souvenir hat and a new passion for open-wheel racing. Her Instagram post about the experience went viral among her friends, inspiring three others to attend the next year.

Example 2: The History Buff

Robert, a 65-year-old retired engineer, visited the Speedway on a quiet Tuesday in April. He bought a museum-only ticket and spent five hours exploring the exhibits. He studied the original 1911 Marmon Wasp, read the oral histories of drivers like Wilbur Shaw, and sat quietly in the Hall of Fame. He didn’t attend a race—he came for the legacy. He later donated a collection of vintage race programs he’d kept since the 1970s to the museum’s archives. His visit was quiet, reflective, and profoundly meaningful.

Example 3: The Family Outing

The Thompson family—parents and two kids, ages 9 and 12—visited during the Brickyard 400 weekend. They purchased a family pass for the guided tour and stayed at a nearby hotel with a pool. The kids loved the interactive simulators in the museum and got autographs from retired drivers at the fan festival. They ate at the “Speedway Grill” and watched the race from the frontstretch. The parents appreciated the clean restrooms and family-friendly atmosphere. They returned the next year for the museum’s “Kids’ Race Day” event, where children could sit in a real IndyCar cockpit.

Example 4: The International Visitor

Yuki, a software developer from Tokyo, traveled to the U.S. specifically to visit the Speedway. He booked a tour in Japanese (available upon request) and used Google Translate to navigate the app. He was fascinated by the tradition of the milk celebration and the precision of the pit crews. He bought a replica of the 1993 winner’s car and sent a photo to his motorsport-loving brother back home. Yuki later wrote a blog post titled “Why the Indianapolis 500 Is the Soul of American Racing,” which was shared by Japanese racing forums.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?

You may bring sealed, non-alcoholic beverages in plastic containers and small snacks in a clear bag. Coolers, glass containers, and alcohol are prohibited. Water refill stations are available throughout the venue.

Are there accessible seating options for guests with disabilities?

Yes. The Speedway offers accessible seating, companion seating, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Wheelchair rentals are available at Gate 1 on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the venue in advance to reserve accessible seating.

Can I bring my pet to the Speedway?

Service animals are permitted with proper identification. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed, except for specific approved events.

How long does the guided tour last?

Standard guided tours last approximately 90 minutes. Extended tours (including garage access) can last up to 2.5 hours. Tours depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours during race weekends.

Is there a dress code for visiting the Speedway?

There is no formal dress code, but comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid wearing clothing with offensive slogans or logos. On race days, many fans wear team colors or patriotic attire.

Can I bring a drone to the Speedway?

No. Drones are strictly prohibited due to safety and security regulations. Violators will be removed and may face legal consequences.

Are there ATMs on-site?

Yes. ATMs are located near major concessions and restrooms. However, many vendors now accept contactless payments, so carrying cash is not required.

What happens if it rains during a race?

Races are rarely canceled due to rain. The track has advanced drainage systems. If rain delays the event, the race will be postponed and resumed later the same day or moved to the next day. Ticket holders retain access for the rescheduled event.

Can I buy tickets at the gate on the day of the event?

Yes, but only if tickets remain. Major events like the Indianapolis 500 sell out weeks in advance. Always purchase online in advance to guarantee entry.

Is the Speedway open year-round?

The museum and gift shop are open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Guided tours run daily during peak season (March–November) and on weekends during winter. Check the website for seasonal hours.

Conclusion

Visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is not just about watching a race—it’s about connecting with a legacy that spans over a century of innovation, courage, and American ingenuity. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious first-timer, the experience is shaped by preparation, respect, and curiosity. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from booking tickets and planning transportation to understanding the traditions and embracing the atmosphere—you ensure your visit is more than a checklist of activities; it becomes a meaningful journey.

The Speedway doesn’t just host races—it tells stories. The bricks beneath your feet have witnessed champions rise and fall. The grandstands have echoed with the roar of engines and the silence of heartbreak. The museum holds the sweat, tears, and triumphs of generations. To visit is to become part of that story.

Plan wisely. Arrive with an open mind. Leave with a deeper appreciation for the sport, the people, and the place. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway isn’t just a venue. It’s a monument. And your visit? It’s your chapter in its enduring tale.