Indianapolis 500
The Indianapolis 500, often called the Indy 500, is one of the most prestigious races in motorsports. The race has been held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway since 1911. It is part of the IndyCar Series, North America's premier open-wheel racing championship, which features high-speed, open-wheel cars competing on a mix of oval tracks, road courses, and street circuits. The speedway is often referred to as "The Brickyard" because the track was originally paved with bricks. While modern asphalt has replaced them, a three-foot strip of bricks remains at the start and finish lines as a tribute to its history. The 2025 Indy 500 will mark the 108th running of the event, bringing together top drivers from around the world to compete for one of the most coveted titles in racing. With over 300,000 spectators in attendance, it remains the largest single-day sporting event in the world, drawing millions of viewers worldwide and cementing its status as a cornerstone of motorsports history.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
On race day, the action starts early, with cars moving to Pit Lane after 9:00 a.m. Driver introductions take place just before noon, followed by the National Anthem and the iconic Back Home Again in Indiana performance. The green flag will wave at 12:45 p.m., signaling the start of the race. For those staying at the speedway for the entire weekend, there's plenty to enjoy before race day. Legends Day offers a full-field autograph session and a public drivers' meeting. On Friday, Carb Day kicks off, featuring a full day of activities, including practice sessions for drivers, a pit stop challenge, and a thrilling three-hour concert.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
Security will be on hand throughout the Indianapolis 500 to ensure a safe environment. Concessions will be available, but be sure to bring alternative payment methods, as cash will not be accepted. Coolers under 15 inches tall are permitted, and a tram service will run throughout the day for easy transportation around the venue. Additionally, visitors can explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, which showcases racing history and includes a gift shop for unique memorabilia.
LOCATION
Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4790 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 Indianapolis Motor Speedway is easily accessible and is just a few miles west of downtown. While the roads leading to the speedway are in good condition, traffic can be heavy during race weekend, so arriving early is recommended.
RVING AT THE EVENT
Camping at the Indianapolis 500 offers RVers a fantastic opportunity to be close to the action and mingle with fellow race fans during race weekend. Camping is available from May 22 through May 25, with several campgrounds outside the track for RVers. Tips for RVers: • Camping lots at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway vary in surface types, with some offering gravel or paved sites and others featuring grass areas. Bring leveling blocks to level your camper. • Most RV spaces at the campground are 20 feet by 40 feet. However, you can request a larger spot to accommodate a big rig. • There are limited sites with electricity and no sewer or water hookups. However, mobile pumping and water delivery services are available for all campers during the race weekend. • You can use a generator at the campgrounds, but it's essential to be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning from vehicle and generator exhaust. You should sleep in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing your generator underneath your camper. • Open fires are prohibited in the campgrounds. You are welcome to use an above-ground grill with a lid to prepare meals. If you prefer a campground with more amenities, you can stay at a nearby Indianapolis campground. Here are some fantastic options: • Raceview Family Campground is one of the closest campgrounds to the speedway, and it has 265 electric campsites for RVs. There are also modern restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station. • The Indianapolis KOA Holiday has full hookups, a water park, and free Wi-Fi. It is also a pet-friendly campground with a dog park.
WHERE TO STAY
If you will not be staying in your RV, there are several hotel options nearby: • The closest hotel to the speedway is the Speedway Legacy Inn Events & Suites, which is a small guesthouse set on an acre of a former plantation. It's pet friendly, has free Wi-Fi, offers breakfast, and has air conditioning. • The Royal Inn of Indianapolis has a pool, a golf course, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. It is pet-friendly and four miles from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
HOW TO GET THERE
From Chicago or Northern Indiana: Take I-65 South towards Indianapolis. From I-70 West, exit at 16th St to reach the speedway. The drive from Chicago takes about 3 hours. From Louisville or Southern Indiana: take I-65 North to I-70 West. Exit at 16th St, and follow the signs to the speedway. The trip from Louisville to Indianapolis is about 2 hours. From Indianapolis International Airport (IND): The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is about 10 miles (roughly 20 minutes) from the Indianapolis International Airport. Head east on the Airport Expressway and take the I-70 East ramp. Exit onto W 16th St to reach the speedway.
PARKING
You must purchase parking tickets in advance, and prices start at $55.
TICKETS & PRICING
Tickets for the Indy 500 can be purchased online and start at $50 for general admission. Other tickets start at $60 for reserved seating, and additional tickets can be bought to attend the Victory Celebration event after the race concludes.
WRAP UP
See all the action of the Indianapolis 500 and hang out with other race fans when you stay at the speedway in your RV. You can rent an RV in Indianapolis if you do not own one. For updates about the Indianapolis 500, check out the race's official Facebook page.
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page.
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