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Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum museum in Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Simone Costenaro
View of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Wesley Magnus
View of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Marco Ceri

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

4.8(4,560 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger elementary-aged kids love the interactive racing simulators and seeing the colorful race cars up close, while tweens and teens appreciate the historical significance and the thrill of riding on the actual track. Preschoolers can enjoy the experience but may have shorter attention spans for the museum exhibits.

About

Rev up your family adventure at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where kids can experience the thrill of racing history without the noise! Located inside the famous Indy 500 oval, this museum combines hands-on racing simulators, jaw-dropping historic race cars, and exciting track shuttle tours that take families right onto the iconic racing surface where champions have made history.

Highlights

  • Track shuttle tours that take families onto the famous 2.5-mile oval racing surface
  • Interactive racing simulators where kids can experience driving an Indy car
  • Collection of over 75 historic race cars including Indy 500 winners
  • Victory Podium photo opportunities and Trophy Gallery
  • The iconic Yard of Bricks (the finish line) viewing area

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Book the track shuttle tour first thing when you arrive,it's the highlight for most kids and can fill up quickly during peak times
  2. 2.Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and a more relaxed experience, especially if your kids want multiple turns on the racing simulators
  3. 3.Bring a camera with a good zoom lens,photo opportunities with iconic race cars are everywhere, and kids love posing in victory lane
  4. 4.Check the museum's calendar before visiting, as certain areas may be closed during race events or track activity
  5. 5.Allow extra time in the gift shop,it's packed with affordable racing-themed toys and souvenirs that make great rewards for good behavior

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings between 10:00-11:30 AM offer the quietest experience with easier access to simulators and shorter wait times for track tours. Avoid visiting during the month of May when the Speedway hosts the Indy 500, as hours and access may be limited.

What to Know

General admission is reasonably priced with discounts for children, and parking is free in the museum lot. The facility is stroller-friendly and accessible. There's a small café inside, but limited food options, so consider eating before or after your visit.

Seasonal Notes

The museum is open year-round, but access to the track tours may be limited during May (Indy 500 month) and when racing events are scheduled. Summer and fall offer the best weather for enjoying the full experience. Check ahead during major race weekends as hours may vary.

Nearby Eats

Head to Dawson's Too (5 minutes away) for classic American comfort food with a great kids menu, or try Scholars Inn Bakehouse in nearby Speedway for fresh sandwiches and kid-approved baked goods in a casual atmosphere.

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