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    Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

    4.3 (152 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

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    A "helmet" from the early 1900s
    Michelle M.

    A very cool experience! Tons of historical (and more modern) artifacts from helmets to trophies to the winning cars themselves. A great place to visit for any racing fan for sure! Although there is an interactive area that kids would enjoy, they might be bored with the rest of the museum. The "kiss the bricks" part of the tour that gets you onto the speedway itself is very cool as well!

    Ellen F.

    Indy and Indycar go hand in hand, each one improving each other. Their story is documented in the IMS museum. Located in the heart of the racetrack, you can find a hundred years worth of racing gear, cars, and photos that document the evolution of the sport. The museum has been newly renovated in the past couple years and the experiences help you feel connected to the racing culture in the city. If NASCAR is more your speed (because they're not as fast as Indycars), they have a wing for that as well. Admission is around $20 per person, but students enter for $7 with ID. You can walk around at your own pace. I think I spent about 2-2.5 hours here and I am one to read about 2/3 of plaques at museums. One really cool thing worth doing if you have the time is to do a track tour. There is an extra cost, but you can drive around the oval and learn about the construction of the track and the surrounding areas within the Speedway. I went on one that stopped at the Brickyard, a stretch of 3 feet that still has the original bricks on display at the Tag Heuer pagoda. You can even kiss the bricks if you want! This review is a little out of date, but that just means I'm closer to my next visit!

    Eddie C.

    Enjoyed my first visit to renovated IMS Museum. I have only seen the museum in pictures prior to the renovations, and the updates modernized the facility and upgraded the user experience quite a bit. When you first enter the museum, you stroll through a mock-up of the garages in gasoline alley. There are racecars from every era. The next stop is an open space with a surround video of the Indy500 experience. This would be a nice recap to anyone who has never been to the race. Finally you enter the main museum with three levels of exhibits. There are of course racecars, but also trophies, helmets, and other memorabilia related to the race and the track. I think race fans and non-fans alike would enjoy a visit to the IMS Museum. There is plenty to see and many things to look at with historical significance. It is also a good place to host events, especially for out-of-towners.

    Cydney M.

    GREAT COLLECTION OF INDY CARS & MEMORABILIA ========================================== My husband and I visited the Indy Motor Speedway Museum on Monday, August 11, 2025. The museum celebrates and preserves the history behind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500. We only spent a couple hours at the museum, but it would be easy to spend a lot more time. The Museum is located inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway so you can see the track from various spots, including inside the museum. You can park for free, but try to avoid during races or private events as you will have to park somewhere else. My son and daughter-in-law live in Indy, so hopefully we will go to a race at some point.

    Brian V.

    This museum is located within the Motor Speedway. When you get to the gate, there was this very friendly and welcoming guard that points you where to park when you are visiting and looking to go to the museum. I'm not the biggest racing fan so I was on the fence of actually going inside the museum. But once I got to the speedway and saw some cars taking some laps. I got a little curious and took a look inside the museum itself. There I decided to actually pay and explore the museum. Boy am I glad I did! Lots of cool stuff to see. The museum feels modern and clean. There's also some areas where you can interact. I don't wanna go on too much about it, because it's something that you should experience yourself. I will say that I was also a big fan of the starting line experience. Cool imagery and loud sounds to make you feel like you're at the race. Really glad I got to experience this place.

    Missi R.

    An excellent family-friendly experience! As a lifelong Indy500 fan I had been to the museum many times over the years but this was my first visit after the big remodeling project. What a beautiful museum! If you are a fan of Motorsport history you will love this museum. There is educational information from pre-Indy 500 times including the planning and construction of the track, balloon races, and information about the founders of the speedway. There are interactive features for children and families, but parents need to be aware that there are many displays that are "don't touch." These are valuable historical vehicles and not for children to sit in or play on. There are museum workers who will remind children not to sit in or touch the cars and other items, so let your children know ahead of time. Well behaved children will enjoy this museum. Besides Indycars there are also some NSACAR vehicles and a limited amount of F1 and MotoGP information. There is a short movie that children (and adults) will enjoy in a state-of-the-art theater. It seems that many local residents have not yet experienced this amazing museum, while other people travel from many states and even foreign countries to see it. If you have never been here definitely check it out.

    Richard A.

    If you are into racing this is the place to visit. For an extra charge they will take you around the track. You can also get out of the bus and experience the size of the track.

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    Raena L.

    1.14.26 I've lived in Indianapolis for over 20 years, and gone to the 500 a few times, but have never been to this museum. It's recently been renovated, so I don't know what it was like before, but now it's a beautiful and amazing collections of history, cars, uniforms, trophies and rings, a walk-through broadcasting of the race, and even driving simulators. If you are a racing fan, this is a must-do. My only caveat (and 4 stars instead of 5), is that many cars, etc. are "do not touch" - so be aware with children. And there was a small interactive section for kids, but what I saw was very small. (I'm not sure if the renovations are completely done, that could be an area for more fun built in). But if you are an adult race fan and want to soak in race history, then you will be in heaven.

    Marie C.

    Visited the museum a week before the Indianapolis 500. They recently had a 90 million dollar renovation and you can see it in all the details from race car displays, interactive exhibits, multi media experiences and historical exhibits. I appreciated the ADA shuttles and ADA accessibility of the museum and the great view of the racetrack from the front of the museum. It was great and educational trip to visit the museum before our visit to the racetrack. Highly recommend as a 2-3 hour day trip if visiting from out of town.

    Indianapolis 500 trophy
    John P.

    This place is so nice! It was just recently renovated, and they have done a really great job in featuring a large number of cars, as well as trophies, uniforms, tickets, programs, anything Indy 500, brickyard 400, F1, Indy racing series stuff etc. they have a cool hands-on area with simulated racing,, pick crew activities, and so much more. Lots of fun for kids of all ages Three different levels of exhibits. Cars all the way back from the wasp all the way up until recent winners. Starts out with a really cool video based on the race a couple years ago. Very cool there's also a gift shop at the end with all kinds of cool stuff. Highly recommend if you're in the Indianapolis area.

    Katherine A.

    The new IMS Museum is mind blowing. I'm not really a huge race fan, but the museum is awesome with something for everyone. The new expansive facility offers history of IMS and a bit of fun. There were a lot of people visiting the museum today, but it didn't seem crowded because exhibits are spread out and there's so much to see. The galleries are upscale with close up views of cars and memorabilia. Guides along the route provide interesting information. There is an interactive area with driving and pit crew simulators. The track driving simulator was an awesome and exciting experience. A room with legos and other construction puzzles was filled with creative young minds. I enjoyed seeing the evolution of the cars and learning about the drivers. There is a gallery dedicated to drivers who have won four races. There is so much to see and do. Admission is $25 with special pricing for seniors, military and kids. Parking is free. Additional fees get you a tour of the track with an opportunity to kiss the bricks. There is a gift shop at the end of the route to pick up logo shirts, flags, model cars and more. Downstairs there was a grab and go snack bar with limited snacks. The restroom facilities with ultra modern and spotless. Plan two hours (more if you like to read everything). There's a lot of walking but plenty of elevators if needed. Well worth a visit and a must see if you are a race fan. This is a great place to bring visitors.

    Allyson G.

    INCREDIBLE time at IMS museum. I am not sure what it looked like before the renovations but it is absolutely incredible now. Loved the layout and the interactive parts! So so fun and I will 100% bring visitors here!!!

    The museum entrance
    Greg L.

    It's been years since I've been to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (when I lived in Indiana), but my friends recommended we visit the newly renovated museum when I was in town for a visit. I'm so glad they did! It brought back some wonderful memories and the museum itself is top notch. It was recently remodeled in April 2025. Once you enter, you find yourself in various "Gasoline Alley" representations over the years as well as history of the 500, NASCAR, the Brickyard and F1 racing. In total, it has three levels of amazing exhibits. We started on the lower level and worked our way up. There are museum gallery guides throughout the facility ready to answer any questions and provide you with background history. One guide in particular was very knowledgeable. His name was Greg. He explained the lower level was previously used for storage and now it is filled with race cars of various decades. He stated the lower level will also be used for special limited exhibitions, such as the race cars of the women drivers scheduled for this Fall. This level also has a special section devoted to the four drivers that have won the 500 race four times - AJ Foyt, Al Unser, Rick Mears and Helio Castroneves. The other two levels are filled with various displays of driver gear, championship rings, newspaper clippings and trophies, plus interactive areas and so much more. The Starting Line movie experience is also impressive, especially if you have been to a 500 race in the past. This museum showcases the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" of the Indianapolis 500 and various other races proudly! Whether you are a race fanatic or a novice, you will enjoy the experience of this museum. Well done, indeed!

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    Golf cart tour very interesting! Everyone that works at museum very friendly and helpful!!

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    Always a great experience coming here. Informative, well made. Deeply appreciate the sentiment and ambiance.

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    There are no water fountains! I had to pay 5 dollars for water from a vending machine! Water should be free!

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    Ask the Community - Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

    Review Highlights - Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

    We got lucky and were able to watch some cars practicing on the track, which made the experience even more exciting!

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    Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art - Cowboy Couture special exhibit

    Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art

    4.5(148 reviews)
    3.8 mi

    Spent Juneteenth enjoying the opportunities around the city and seeing as though I was just at…read moreNewfields 2 weeks ago I figured it would be awesome to come to Eiteljorg since it had been a while since we've been. We came in through The Indiana State museum and walked out on the canal and entered in the back way. We were greeted by the most wonderful volunteer, very helpful and enjoying herself. We entered to music playing and people exploring the grounds outside. Plenty of space to walk and enjoy outside. We walked up the steps to discover the play area and more steps going up to outdoor seating for the cafe. We entered the kids play area. I loved the creative play offered inside. The library and all of the resources provided. My grandson had the opportunity to play and explore for a while. Pose for a few pictures and then upstairs to the exhibit area where some vendors were set up. I always enjoy engaging with the vendors and finding out about their different offerings. I purchased and few things and then we made our way through the museum. It was a wonderful time. Something educational for my grandlove and outof the norm for us. They have made some upgrades ans changed some things since I was here last. Looking forward to our next opportunity to stop in and see whats in store.

    I've wanted to visit the Eiteljorg for a while now so I'm glad I got to visit on MLK Free Day!…read more I won't give away too much of what's inside but there's a lot of artwork by artists who are Native to the North American landmass, inclusive of Inuit art. I liked the Jingle Rails special holiday exhibit which featured recreations of many landmarks across the United States with electric train sets moving throughout the exhibit. I shared a few of my favorite sights with this review. There is also a nice cafe that has a pretty full service menu. Since we already had lunch, we only stopped by for a soft drink. You can actually visit the cafe without visiting the full museum, and receipts to the cafe can actually validate the underground parking at the White River State Park!

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    Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art
    Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art - Cowboy Couture

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    The Children's Museum - Greece at Children's Museum of Indianapolis

    The Children's Museum

    4.5(590 reviews)
    4.3 mi

    We loved our day trip to the Indy Children's Museum. You could spend hours here. My kids absolutely…read moreloved the "dinosaurs who hit the building." We went on a Sunday so it was not super busy which was great. There are a ton of interactive exhibits. Our favorite part of the museum was the amazing sports complex. It offered every sport you could imagines so my kids got to play basketball, soccer, baseball, peddle cars. There was also a really neat treehouse there as well. It was a great outdoor experience. We did not get to see all the floors but were very impressed by what we did see. I do want to note that they do not offer reciprocity with other museum passes so we did have to pay full price.

    This is easily the best children's museum in the country. We live in Georgia and have annual passes…read moreto the Indianapolis Children's Museum just because it is so incredible that it's worth the flight. Inside has intricate, rotating exhibits that are hands-on and informational at a level that all ages can appreciate. Outdoors is a huge sports complex featuring a track, a racecourse, realistic mini fields and courts as well as several putt putt courses for all skill levels. It's a little more weather dependent but truly amazing. The whole museum is so well maintained and staffed by thoughtful, caring people who really seem to enjoy their jobs and are always willing and able to help. Food is relatively affordable but the best food is bar far the tacos outside. My only complaint is that lately the bees (or wasps or whatever) have been really bad near the restaurant, and will literally try to eat anything, even cheese or chicken. They are ruthless. If they're bad when you come, grab food outside and take it indoors to the bee-free cafeteria.

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    The Children's Museum - What a beautiful exhibit! Tiana's Joyful Celebration from The Princess and the Frog.

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    What a beautiful exhibit! Tiana's Joyful Celebration from The Princess and the Frog.

    Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum - New location inside the World War Memorial

    Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum

    4.5(11 reviews)
    4.2 miMile Square

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    Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum
    Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum
    Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum - New location inside the World War Memorial

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    Indianapolis Canal Walk

    Indianapolis Canal Walk

    4.5(207 reviews)
    3.8 miMile Square

    It's been a while since I've been to the Canal, but when I saw they were having a Full Moon Yoga…read moreParty, I knew I wanted to check it out and I'm so glad I did! The yoga was provided by The Hot Room Yoga, and I believe the event was in partnership with Indy Cultural Trail. There was also a local artist, Lily Groot, who was there creating free prints for at least 450 attendees. I got print 13. Honestly, it was such a great event! You could purchase items from Black vegan cafe food truck, while we hung out and watched the sunset. Then around 8:30 PM, we turned on the glow lights they provided and got ready to do yoga under the full moon. The yoga session was about an hour. It was definitely challenging as you really just had to listen on what to do, but it felt so good for my body, mind, and soul. There was something really special about doing yoga outside, surrounded by the Canal, with the sunset fading and the full moon coming out. It was a vibe. I'm really glad I got to experience this! There's another one coming up in September, so if you've never been, you should definitely give it a try, it was free! Such a fun and unique Indy experience!

    Goodness, have I walked the canal about 50 times now?!…read more It's such a unique experience for Indy to have some water space in the middle of the city. This 3 mile loop will take you from 11th Street down to White River State Park to access the green space and extra trails down there. The canal water itself is not super cute, where there can be litter, and the water is rather opaque. They do drain the canal every so often to keep it from getting too uncute. The sidewalks are kept nicer, though a few spots in front of apartment buildings could use some TLC. There are also a few spots where the sidewalk is not level, so take caution if that is an issue. It's mostly stair access to the canal, but I *think* I've seen an elevator around the Ohio street basin. The canal has a few businesses along it for your merriment. Notably, there is Fresco on the Canal (I have a separate review for this) which is open March-October. Eiteljorg museum cafe is open daily around the lunch hours (11-3) and can be accessed through their patio gate. Entertainment wise, there is more going on. I've done the swan boat rentals, where you can pedal around on the canal. This is quite a workout! Rental of swan boats and kayaks is near the Ohio Street basin. There is also the gondolas, where your gondolier can sing, and they've always sounded marvelous. There's also a few stations for the Pacers Bikeshare around the canal, which is free for Marion County residents. Any time the weather is right, you can find me getting my steps in!

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    Indianapolis Canal Walk
    Indianapolis Canal Walk - Look for this tall colorful mosaic to start your canal adventure!

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    Look for this tall colorful mosaic to start your canal adventure!

    Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust Allison - Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust Museum

    Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust Allison

    4.9(11 reviews)
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    One of the most interesting tours I have heard, and I knew little about engines before I went. The…read moretour was led by two gentlemen who worked for Rolls Royce. Their knowledge, great stories, and enthusiasm really made the tour. My dad and brother love engines and had lots of questions the guides happily answered. My mom and I know less, but the guides were great about taking the conversation up a level that made the presentation very understandable and fascinating to us. I enjoyed learning about the history of Rolls Royce and Allison, and the evolution of engineering the guides illustrated using engines they have collected and restored. This a great tour for anyone who loves to learn. If you enjoy engines (car or plane), don't miss it.

    Excellent little museum at the Rolls/Allison headquarters. Sign in at the front desk. I got there…read morejust before 9 so I had to wait a few minutes, but there are magazines and books in the lobby, comfy chairs, and a few aircraft models. There's a small company store, sadly closed on the day I went. The museum covers the history of Allison very well, and the later merger with RR. Mostly Allison engines on display, a few RR. Models on top of each engine depict the aircraft that used it. Some engines are cutaway; one or two are operable with the push of a button. A few artifacts from the factories, and information about the other products they've produced. Towards the back are spacecraft parts; I did not know Allison was involved with that. Of course, not being an Indy native, I didn't know about his connection to the Speedway, or Prestolite, etc. All well-organized, brightly lit, lovingly cared for. And free. If you are anywhere nearby, this is worth a visit. If you are an aviation buff, get yourself here however far away you are.

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    Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust Allison
    Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust Allison - Welcome to the NEW James A. Allison Exhibition Center! Come on in!

    Welcome to the NEW James A. Allison Exhibition Center! Come on in!

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    Lift fan

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum - museums - Updated September 2026

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