From the Highway to the Speedway: Navigating Indy 500 Travel Like a Pro.

From the Highway to the Speedway: Navigating Indy 500 Travel Like a Pro.

Taylor Huff

May 20, 2025Updated Jul 1, 20265 min read

The Indianapolis 500 is just around the corner. Are you wondering what the best way to get there is? No worries! We’ve researched and found the best ways to get to the track.

IMS Race Day Shuttle Service

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) offers official round-trip shuttle services on Race Day, providing a convenient and stress-free way to reach the event.​ 

Pickup Locations:

  • Indianapolis International Airport: Ground Transportation Center, Level 1.

  • Gate Ten Events & Parking: 345 W McCarty St., near Lucas Oil Stadium.Details:

  • Cost: $50 per person for a round-trip pass (all ages require a pass).

  • Parking Fees:

    • Airport: $10 (cash only).

    • Gate Ten: $20 (cash or credit).

  • Shuttle Schedule:

    • Departures to IMS: 7:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    • Return trips begin with 50 laps remaining and continue for two hours post-race.

  • Drop-off/Pick-up Location at IMS: Main Gate parking lot across from Gate 2, near 16th & Polco Streets

  • All shuttles are school buses, and ADA-accessible vans are available for those needing mobility assistance.

Driving and Parking

  • Infield Parking: Opens at 6 a.m.; requires a pre-paid pass and entry through Gate 2 or Gate 10.

  • Exterior Parking: Opens at 5 a.m.; all spots are paid and require a pre-purchased pass.

  • Street Closures: Expect closures on Holt Road (Washington to 16th St.), 10th Street (White River West Dr. to Lynhurst), and Polco (10th to 16th St.) on Race Day

  • Private lots near the track—many homes and businesses open up their yards for parking (expect $20–$60, cash preferred)

Rideshare Services (Uber, Lyft, Taxi)

Rideshare services are a great option, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles.​

Drop-off/Pick-up Locations:

  • Uber/Lyft: Main Street and Gilman Street.

  • Taxi: 10th Street and Polco Street.​

Tips:

  • After the race, follow signage to the designated rideshare zones.

  • Be prepared for potential surge pricing and wait times due to high demand. ​

For a more active approach, consider biking to the event.​

  • Organized Ride: "Bike to the 500" starts at the AMP at 16 Tech and includes a police escort to IMS.

  • Bike Parking: Available outside Gates 1, 6, and 9.

  • Cost: $20 in advance or $25 on Race Day for monitored parking

For more information about race day, you can check out the Plan Ahead Guide on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website! 

Taylor Huff

Taylor Huff

Born and raised in Indiana’s 574, Taylor is a business owner, farm wife, and mom who brings local heart to Get IN by giving you insider tips on the state’s hidden gems.

View all posts →

Keep Exploring Indiana

View all articles

Stay IN the Know

Join 25,000+ Hoosiers getting weekly spotlights on Indiana's best businesses, hidden gems, and community stories.