Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has reopened its doors with a bold new look, drawing enthusiastic reactions from fans, families, and racing historians after completing the most extensive renovation in its history. The museum welcomed visitors again in early April following a $60.5 million transformation that lasted 17 months, marking its first major overhaul in four decades.
Closed to the public since November 2023, the museum used the downtime to completely rethink how the story of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is told. The result is a dramatically expanded and reimagined space that adds roughly 40,000 square feet of new exhibits and interactive experiences. The redesign aims to connect longtime racing fans with new audiences, while making the museum more engaging, inclusive, and accessible than ever before.
Visitors now move through seven permanent galleries and three rotating ones, allowing the museum to refresh its storytelling regularly. One of the most anticipated changes is the opening of the lower level, an area that was previously available only through limited tours. This newly accessible space offers guests a deeper look into the Speedway’s history and behind-the-scenes operations.
Another highlight is the new mezzanine, which focuses on non-vehicle artifacts that help tell the broader story of racing culture and innovation. Items on display include a race suit worn by four-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Alex Palou, the iconic NASCAR Cup Series Brickyard 400 trophy, and a piece of the SAFER Barrier. Together, these items underscore the Speedway’s role not only in competition, but also in advancing driver safety.
The renovation leans heavily into immersive experiences designed to place visitors in the heart of race day. The “Starting Line Experience” surrounds guests with video and sound, recreating the energy and emotion that build before the start of the Indianapolis 500. Nearby, state-of-the-art racing simulators challenge visitors to try qualifying for the legendary race, offering a taste of the precision and pressure drivers face.
Hands-on learning continues with the “pit stop challenge,” where guests can explore the tools and techniques used by race crews. These interactive elements reflect the museum’s broader vision of becoming a global destination for Indianapolis Motor Speedway storytelling that is both educational and entertaining for all ages.
Accessibility was a central focus throughout the renovation. Museum leaders worked to ensure that every visitor feels welcome and included. A wheelchair-friendly racing simulator allows guests to control the experience entirely through the steering wheel, removing the need for pedal use. A new wellness room offers a quiet, private space for nursing parents, visitors with sensory sensitivities, or anyone needing a moment away from the noise and activity.
The museum has also partnered with Kulture City to become officially Sensory Inclusive™. Sensory bags are available at the Welcome Center and include soundproof headphones, fidget tools, and tinted glasses to reduce light sensitivity. Clear signage throughout the building marks “headphone areas,” helping guests navigate the space comfortably.
Early reactions suggest the renovation has achieved its goal. Visitors have praised the museum’s modern feel, deeper storytelling, and thoughtful design choices. By blending history, technology, and inclusivity, the new-look IMS Museum offers a fresh way to experience one of the most famous venues in motorsports, while honoring the legacy that made it legendary.
