Best Things to Do at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), home of the iconic Indy 500, offers far more than just high-octane races. This legendary 2.5-mile oval track spans 559 acres and attracts millions annually for its blend of history, adrenaline, and unique attractions. Whether you’re a die-hard racing enthusiast or a casual visitor, the grounds provide diverse activities year-round, from intimate tours to pulse-pounding rides. Dive into these handpicked adventures to maximize your visit.

Immerse Yourself in Racing Heritage at the IMS Museum

Start your IMS journey at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, a treasure trove of automotive history located at the track’s south end. Opened in its current form in 1976, it showcases over 30 Indy 500-winning cars, rare Formula 1 vehicles like the 1954 Mercedes W196, and NASCAR icons. Special exhibits highlight legends such as four-time winner Rick Mears, bringing the evolution of speed to life through meticulously preserved artifacts.

Beyond displays, the museum serves as a gateway to interactive fun. Families appreciate kid-friendly zones with video racing simulators, remote-control cars, and pedal races nearby in the infield. Don’t miss the expansive gift shops stocked with memorabilia—perfect for souvenirs. Note that access often requires separate tickets, and hours vary, especially during events.

• Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a museum admission for bundled track tours.
• Explore thousands of artifacts spanning over a century of racing innovation.
• Ideal for all ages, with shaded seating and food options adjacent.

Guided Track Tours: Go Behind the Scenes

For an insider’s perspective, IMS track tours deliver unparalleled access. The premier Golf Cart Tour, lasting 90 minutes, whisks small groups to key landmarks like the Pagoda, Gasoline Alley, and Victory Podium. Knowledgeable guides share anecdotes during a lap around the oval (when available), culminating in a stop at the famed Yard of Bricks—where winners kiss the asphalt in victory tradition.

Shorter options abound: the 30-minute Kiss the Bricks Bus Tour circles the track with narration and a photo op at the start/finish line. On non-racing days, the Victory Podium Tour ventures through garages to the milk-chugging champion’s perch. Age restrictions apply (12+ for golf carts), and museum entry is mandatory. Book ahead via the official site, as tours run April-October.

Feel the Rush: IndyCar Ride-Alongs

Elevate your visit with the INDYCAR Experience, the exclusive high-speed ride program at IMS. Strap into a two-seat IndyCar alongside a professional driver for laps at up to 180 mph on the legendary oval. Available select dates May-November, including 2026 slots, this heart-pounding adventure lets you experience G-forces and the track’s banking firsthand.

No license required—just thrill-seekers aged 18+ (with height/weight limits). Rides occur during NTT INDYCAR Series weekends, offering a taste of Indy 500 intensity without competing. It’s the closest civilians get to pro racing, with photos and videos included.

Iconic Spots to Explore on Foot

The Speedway’s vast infield rewards wanderers. Pagoda Plaza, behind the 153-foot Pagoda at the start/finish, buzzes with food trucks, video boards, and the Yard of Bricks extension—ideal for photos evoking early 1900s races. Stroll Gasoline Alley, the bustling garage area where teams prep cars, soaking in the mechanical symphony.

Catch a sunrise (gates open at 6 AM with a cannon blast) or sunset inside the track for serene views few witness. At night, the empty grandstands create an eerie ambiance, with cooling metal echoing like racing ghosts. The IMS Midway adds family flair: bounce houses, sponsor displays, go-karts, and live music on Carb Day or Legends Day.

Nearby Racing Hotspots in Speedway and Beyond

Venture just outside IMS to Speedway, Indiana’s hub. The Dallara IndyCar Factory, a third-mile southwest, offers factory tours revealing IndyCar construction secrets—interactive simulators included. For drag racing, head 15 minutes to Lucas Oil Raceway Park in Hendricks County, hosting NHRA events on its premier strip and oval.

Speedway Indoor Karting, blocks away, provides all-ages electric karting on a world-class indoor track—perfect post-IMS adrenaline. These spots extend your racing immersion without straying far.

Planning Your IMS Day: Practical Tips

IMS visits peak during Indy 500 (late May), but attractions operate year-round. Tickets start at $30 for museum/tours; rides exceed $200. Free parking abounds, but shuttles ease navigation. Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and cash for midway vendors. Events like SCCA Runoffs add unique access.

Families thrive with kids’ zones; accessibility options include wheelchairs. Check weather—Midwest summers sizzle. Download the IMS app for maps and schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are track tours available year-round?

Primarily April-October; confirm via imsmuseum.org as schedules vary with events.

What’s the minimum age for IndyCar rides?

18+, with safety restrictions on height/weight.

Can kids enjoy IMS activities?

Yes—midway games, simulators, and pedal races cater to families.

How long to spend at the museum?

2-3 hours ideal, plus tours for full day.

Is parking free?

Yes, ample lots surround the grounds.

Why IMS Stands Out for Adventure Seekers

IMS transcends tracks, blending history, speed, and accessibility. From museum relics to 180-mph blasts, it delivers multi-generational thrills. Plan now for 2026 events—your adventure awaits on the Bricks.