The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum's Camaro Pace Car Homecoming, May 2019.
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Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

4.8
·4k reviews·Indianapolis, United States

Explore racing history at the newly renovated Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, featuring iconic cars and immersive exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
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The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum's Camaro Pace Car Homecoming, May 2019.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore racing history at the newly renovated Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, featuring iconic cars and immersive exhibits.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"This classic museum just had a $65 million facelift and it is definitely worth checking out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Track Tours Early

Track tours are highly recommended and can sell out, especially during peak season. Book online in advance!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits and grounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Heritage Group Gasoline Alley Gallery

Heritage Group Gasoline Alley Gallery

Inside the Museum

Immerse yourself in racing history with an expanded collection of legendary cars and interactive displays.

Starting Line Experience

Starting Line Experience

Inside the Museum

Feel the thrill of race day with immersive exhibits that put you right on the starting grid.

Iconic Race Cars

Iconic Race Cars

Throughout the Museum

See legendary machines like Al Unser Jr.'s Beast and Bobby Unser's Eagle up close.

Track Tour

Track Tour

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Grounds

Experience the legendary track, Pagoda, and winner's circle with knowledgeable guides.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit Post-Renovation

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum recently underwent a massive $60.5 million renovation, reopening with immersive exhibits and a reimagined layout. Check their official website for the latest hours and any special event closures before you go. Consider booking track tours in advance, as they are popular and can sell out, especially on event days.

Tickets & Track Access

Admission tickets are priced around $25 for adults, with discounts for seniors, military, and youth. While the museum itself offers incredible historical displays, adding a track tour provides unparalleled access to the iconic grounds, including the Pagoda and the winner's circle. Some tours even grant access to the race control room! Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low
When
During non-race weekends
Why
Experience the buzz without the crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon, post-lunch
Why
Tour groups may thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We found the best seat in the house at Indianapolis Motor Speedway 🏁 #INDYCAR #indy500
@indycaronfox
7.9K likes • 370K views

🎯 Book Track Tours Early

Track tours are highly recommended and can sell out, especially during peak season. Book online in advance! Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits and grounds.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
its_jalopy_jeff
414 likes • 14.8K views
Let’s explore the newly renovated Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum! Share with a friend who wants to get in the racing spirit before May! It’s been completely reimagined—with interactive exhibits, racing history, and hands-on fun for all ages. I took our 3-year-old and we spent OVER TWO HOURS exploring. That’s basically magic when you’ve got a toddler! He’s already asked to go back a hundr...
exploringhendrickscounty
186 likes • 5.4K views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The museum is vast and recently renovated; plan for at least 2-3 hours, or more if you add a track tour. Instagram

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Many staff members have incredible stories and insights to share about the Speedway's history.

🏁✨ Exciting News, Racing Fans! ✨🏁 - **Grand Reopening**: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopens on April 2, 2025, after a $60.5 million renovation! 🚧🔧 - **New Experiences**: Explore 40,000 sq. ft. of immersive exhibits, including: - **Heritage Group Gasoline Alley Gallery**: Dive into racing history! 🏎️💨 - **Starting Line Experience**: Feel the thrill of the Indianapolis 500! - **Wi...
thehoosiermama_
1.1K likes • 14.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Track Tours Early

Track tours are highly recommended and can sell out, especially during peak season. Book online in advance! Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the extensive exhibits and grounds.

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The museum is vast and recently renovated; plan for at least 2-3 hours, or more if you add a track tour. Instagram

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Many staff members have incredible stories and insights to share about the Speedway's history.

🥤 Limited Refreshments

Bring your own water or snacks, as refreshment options inside are limited. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum's recent $60.5 million renovation, highlighting its immersive exhibits, vast collection of iconic race cars, and engaging displays. Many recommend adding a track tour for an unparalleled experience of the Speedway grounds. A minor drawback noted is the limited availability of refreshments on-site.

"It’s an amazing experience from start to finish. Be sure and take the golf cart tour. Jason was personable and made the tour awesome! The museum is amazing! So many important cars and the building itself is a work of art. The only negative is they need more refreshments due to the amount of time a visitor may spend there. Be sure and talk to the different staff around the museum, they make the visit more informative and some of them have great stories. I highly recommend visiting here whether you e ever watched a race or not."

Mark Boswell (Mark)

"Excellent recommended museum for auto enthusiasts and anyone that enjoys historic racing collectibles. This classic museum just had a $65 million facelift and it is definitely worth checking out. $23 Senior tickets. No line to purchase tickets. Easy parking."

David Francis

"This was the first time I have been to this museum. It was great for adults and kids. The flow through the museum was easy with different exhibitions on three floors with additional exhibitions within the larger areas. Be sure to go up to the cars on gasoline alley and stand on the indicators to start the videos to learn some history. There was a cool video that played on a screen on the back wall and wrapped up the ceiling. They had a variety of makes, models, and years of vehicles to look at. There was an interactive room for adults and older kids and a craft room for the younger kiddos. When we were there was some cars on the track. Maybe a test and tune for ISMA. My husband grew up going to this museum. This was the first time he has been in years. They had since done a remodel. My husband said it is so much “cooler” now."

Amber Gray-Kurz

What People Like

Stunning post-renovation exhibits
Iconic race car collection
Informative track tours

What People Dislike

Limited on-site refreshments

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, right on the grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are often the most convenient. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Visitors generally find it easy to park, especially outside of major race events. Reddit

Visiting the museum on major race days like the Indy 500 can be challenging due to crowds and potential access restrictions. It's best to check the official schedule and consider visiting on a non-race day for a more relaxed experience. Instagram

Track tours often utilize golf carts for efficient exploration of the vast Speedway grounds, allowing you to see key areas like the Pagoda and winner's circle without extensive walking. Reddit

Yes, Indianapolis offers a range of hotels near the Speedway, from budget-friendly options to more upscale accommodations. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during race weekends. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission tickets are typically around $25 for adults, with discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, and youth. Children 5 and under are usually free. Instagram+1

Yes, purchasing Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to add a track tour. This ensures your spot and can save you time. Instagram

The museum hours can vary, especially around special events and holidays. It's best to check the official Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Instagram

No, track tours are typically an add-on to the general museum admission ticket. They offer a separate, in-depth experience of the Speedway grounds. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum usually offers discounted admission prices for seniors and military personnel. Check their website for current pricing details. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features a vast collection of historic race cars, motorsports memorabilia, and interactive exhibits covering the rich history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500. Highlights include the Gasoline Alley Gallery and the Starting Line Experience. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The museum has been completely reimagined with interactive elements and hands-on fun suitable for all ages, including a craft room for younger children. Instagram

Most visitors find they can easily spend several hours exploring the museum, especially after its extensive renovation. Plan for at least 2-3 hours, and potentially longer if you add a track tour. InstagramReddit

While the museum itself is self-guided, knowledgeable staff are often available to share insights. For a guided experience of the grounds, consider booking a track tour with guides like Jason or Howard, who are praised for their passion and knowledge. Reddit

The 'Kiss the Bricks' tradition is part of some track tours, where visitors have the opportunity to walk onto the iconic front stretch and kiss the bricks that mark the start/finish line. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Refreshment options inside the museum are limited. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to dine before or after your visit. Reddit

Indianapolis offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. Areas like downtown Indianapolis and Broad Ripple Village have many popular restaurants to explore after your museum visit.

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the main exhibit areas to protect the artifacts. Check the museum's specific policies upon arrival. Reddit

While the museum itself has limited food services, the broader Indianapolis Motor Speedway complex may have concessions available during major events. For regular museum visits, plan your meals accordingly. Reddit

Indianapolis has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan choices. Exploring local dining guides or apps can help you find suitable options nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits. Always look for signage. TikTok

Iconic race cars, the Gasoline Alley Gallery, and the immersive exhibits like the Starting Line Experience offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the grandeur of the Speedway itself if you take a track tour. TikTokInstagram

No, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and its grounds due to safety and security regulations. TikTok

Similar to photography, personal filming is usually permitted, but professional filming may require special permits. Avoid using flash or disruptive equipment. TikTok

You can find many Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum photos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok by searching relevant hashtags, as well as on travel blogs and the museum's official website. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a fantastic outing for families. The recent $60.5 million renovation has made it incredibly engaging for children, with interactive exhibits and a dedicated craft room. Instagram Plan for at least two hours to explore, and consider if a track tour is suitable for your children's age and attention span. Instagram Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as food options are limited inside. Reddit

🚗 Auto Enthusiasts

For car lovers, the IMS Museum is a pilgrimage. The extensive collection of iconic race cars, from Al Unser Jr.'s legendary machines to the Marmon Wasp, is breathtaking. Reddit The newly renovated Gasoline Alley Gallery offers deep dives into racing history, and the sheer number of diverse vehicles on display is astounding. Reddit Don't miss the chance to add a track tour for an even more immersive experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission is around $25, the value is high given the extensive exhibits and the option for track tours. Look for senior and military discounts. Instagram Pack your own snacks and water to save on on-site purchases. Reddit Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit.

📸 Photography Buffs

The museum offers numerous visually stunning opportunities. Capture the sleek lines of classic race cars in the Gasoline Alley Gallery, the dynamic displays of the Starting Line Experience, and the grandeur of the Speedway grounds during a track tour. TikTokInstagram Remember to check for any flash restrictions to protect the artifacts. The Pagoda and the iconic bricks of the front stretch are also prime photo subjects. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grand Renovation: A New Era for the IMS Museum

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has undergone a monumental $60.5 million renovation, transforming it into a world-class destination for motorsports enthusiasts. This extensive overhaul, spanning 17 months, has reimagined the visitor experience with 40,000 square feet of immersive exhibits. The goal was to create a more engaging and interactive environment that appeals to both seasoned racing fans and newcomers alike. Instagram+1

The newly designed spaces include the Heritage Group Gasoline Alley Gallery, which delves deep into the rich history of racing, and the Starting Line Experience, designed to put visitors right in the heart of the race day atmosphere. The museum now boasts an expanded collection of legendary race cars, meticulously displayed to showcase their historical significance. This renovation solidifies the IMS Museum's position as one of the premier racing museums globally. Instagram+1

Visitors have praised the museum's modern feel and the depth of information presented. The interactive elements, including videos that play on screens wrapped around ceilings and indicators that trigger historical content, make learning about the Speedway's legacy captivating. The thoughtful layout ensures a smooth flow through the exhibits, making it easy to explore the diverse array of vehicles and stories. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Exhibits: Experiencing the Speedway Grounds

While the museum itself is a treasure trove of racing history, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers an even broader experience through its track tours. These guided excursions provide unparalleled access to the iconic 2.5-mile oval, allowing visitors to stand on the hallowed grounds where legends have competed. Tours often include visits to the Pagoda, the Speedway's control center, and the revered Winner's Circle.

Many visitors rave about the golf cart tours, which efficiently cover the vast Speedway grounds and offer a behind-the-scenes look. Guides like Jason and Howard are frequently mentioned for their personable nature, extensive knowledge, and passion for the Speedway's heritage. Some tours even grant access to the race control room, offering a unique perspective on race day operations. Reddit

The highlight for many is the opportunity to kiss the bricks on the front stretch, a tradition that connects visitors directly to the Speedway's storied past. This immersive experience goes beyond simply viewing artifacts; it allows you to feel the pulse of one of the world's most famous racing venues. Reddit

A Family-Friendly Destination

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a surprisingly family-friendly attraction, even for those who aren't die-hard racing fans. The recent renovations have incorporated interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Instagram

Younger children will appreciate the dedicated craft room, offering a creative outlet. Older children and adults can enjoy the interactive displays that bring racing history to life. The museum's layout is easy to navigate, ensuring that families can explore at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed. Instagram

When planning a family visit, consider the length of your stay. While the museum can be explored in a couple of hours, adding a track tour might be more suitable for older children who can appreciate the historical significance of the grounds. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as on-site options are limited. Reddit

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