The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is an automotive museum on the grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indianapolis, Indiana, which houses the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. It is intrinsically linked to the Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400, but it also includes exhibits reflecting other motorsports, passenger cars, and general automotive history. In 2006, it celebrated its 50th anniversary. The museum foundation possesses several former Indianapolis 500-winning cars, and they are regularly rotated onto the display floor exhibits.
The first museum at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was completed on April 7, 1956. It was located on the southwest corner of the property, outside turn one of the famous ovals, at 16th Street and Georgetown Road. Its exhibits included Ray Harroun’s 1911 Indy 500 winning car and a handful of other vehicles. Karl Kizer became the first curator. When it opened, it only had six cars. Within several years, dozens of collector cars were being donated and acquired. It did not take long for management to realize that the building was of insufficient size. According to Speedway publicist Al Bloemker, by 1961, the museum saw an average of 5,000 visitors per week (not including the month of May crowds).
On display in the museum are about 75 cars at any given time. With floor space totaling 37,500 square feet, only a tiny portion of the total collection can be displayed. Frequently, cars are sent on loan for display at other museums, historical car shows, parades, and other activities. The collection includes over thirty Indianapolis 500 winning cars, various other Indy cars, and several racing cars from other disciplines. It also includes pace and passenger cars, focusing on those manufactured in Indiana and by Indiana companies. Other items on display include trophies, plaques, and racing paraphernalia such as helmets, gloves, and driver’s suits. Rotating exhibits include model cars, photographs, toys, and paintings. Displays include highlights of the history of Speedway ownership, the evolution of the track, and memorabilia from past years. Bed Bug Exterminator Indianapolis
Restaurants and Pubs
- Dawson’s On Main is located at 1464 N Main St, Indianapolis, IN
- The Tamale Place is located at 5226 Rockville Rd, Indianapolis, IN
- Charlie Browns Pancake & Steak House is located at 1038 N Main St, Indianapolis, IN
- Mc Gilverys Pub & Eatery is located at 3009 N High School Rd, Indianapolis, IN
- Union Jack Pub Speedway is located at 6225 W 25th St, Speedway, IN
Check out other attractions like The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
