IndyCar · Indianapolis, Indiana · 2026-05-22 to 2026-05-24
The Greatest Spectacle in Racing. 33 cars, 500 miles, 300,000 fans — the Indy 500 is motorsport's most iconic single-day event.
The Indianapolis 500 brings IndyCar action to Indianapolis from 2026-05-22 to 2026-05-24. Race weekends transform the city — hotels fill months in advance, restaurants book out, and traffic intensifies around the circuit. Expect three days of practice, qualifying, and race-day action with packed grandstands and a buzzing trackside atmosphere. Plan your accommodation early and consider properties with flexible cancellation in case the schedule shifts.
Race weekend in Indianapolis is a multi-day event, not a single race. Friday brings free practice sessions and the first chance to see the cars on track. Saturday is qualifying day — the most strategic session of the weekend and often the most thrilling for fans. Sunday is race day, with support series, driver parades, and the main event itself.
Plan to arrive a day early to settle in, scout your viewing spots, and explore Indianapolis. Most circuits open gates 2-3 hours before the first session — arriving early secures the best general admission positions. Bring layers, sun protection, and ear protection (especially for IndyCar). Cash is useful for trackside vendors, though contactless payments are increasingly common.
Book accommodation as soon as race dates are confirmed — properties within walking distance of Indianapolis's circuit are the first to sell out, often 6-12 months ahead for premium events. Mid-range hotels 5-15 km from the circuit typically offer the best balance of price and convenience, especially when paired with public transport or shuttle services on race days.
If driving, expect significant congestion within 5 km of the circuit on race day — leave early or use park-and-ride options. Many race weekends offer dedicated event shuttles from key transport hubs and partner hotels. Check the official event website close to race weekend for the latest transport advice and any updates to road closures or parking arrangements.
Build in at least one buffer day around the race weekend itself. Travel disruption is common around major events, and an extra day lets you enjoy Indianapolis without the race-day crowds. Most experienced motorsport travellers extend their trip by 2-3 days to combine the race with local sightseeing, dining, and recovery.
5 properties near the circuit, sorted by distance
RENTAL · 3 stars · 1.9 km
Walk-to-track rental in the town of Speedway, steps from the IMS museum and Main Street.
HOTEL · 4 stars · 10.9 km
The unofficial Indy 500 headquarters hotel, connected to the convention center downtown.
HOTEL · 4 stars · 12.1 km
Art-filled downtown hotel with rooftop views, 15 minutes from the Brickyard.
BOUTIQUE · 4 stars · 12.9 km
Art deco gem in the Mass Ave district with in-house cinema and craft cocktail bar.
BOUTIQUE · 4 stars · 16.4 km
Industrial-chic boutique hotel with craft cocktails, a popular base for Indy 500 VIPs.
Book accommodation 4-8 months before Indianapolis 500 for the best rates and selection. Properties within walking distance of the circuit sell out first, often 6+ months ahead for premium race weekends.
Hotels closest to the circuit typically sell out 3-6 months before race weekend. Mid-range properties 5-15 km out generally have availability until 6-8 weeks before the event.
Properties within 10 km of the circuit offer the easiest access on race days. Indianapolis city centre is a popular choice for visitors who want better dining and nightlife after track sessions end.
Yes, official parking is available but fills quickly on race day. Most attendees pre-book parking weeks in advance or use public transport and shuttle services to avoid congestion around the circuit.