Indianapolis Motor Speedway Parking Guide: Infield, Yard, & Shuttle Tips
Master the logistics of the world's largest sporting venue with our comprehensive IMS parking guide. From official infield passes to the unique residential yard parking culture in Speedway, we cover maps, costs, and essential race-day arrival strategies.
May 13, 2026
10 min read
3,913 words

The Definitive Indianapolis Motor Speedway Parking Guide: Maps, Yards, & Infield Hacks
Finding parking at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway alongside 300,000 other fans is a logistical beast. Whether you need to navigate the underground infield tunnels, find a cheap cash-only residential yard, or figure out how to avoid the infamous two-hour post-race traffic lockdown, this guide has your race day strategy covered.
Going beyond generic maps to expose the gritty local realities of IMS parking: why your cell phone won't work to pay for yard parking, the ADA shuttle catch-22, the 2-hour post-race lot lockdown, and the underground tunnels required for infield access. If you are looking for Indianapolis Motor Speedway parking, you need a game plan before you ever turn the ignition key.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Official Parking Lot Map and Season Prices
How much does it cost to park at the Indy 500? Official IMS outside lots (Lot 1, Lot 2, Main Gate) average $65 per event and offer a 5-15 minute walk to exterior gates. Infield parking is $80 per event. Official Race Day parking routinely sells out up to a month in advance.
Getting an official parking pass at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway located at 4790 W. 16th St. is the dream for many race fans, but it requires serious planning. You cannot just show up on the morning of the Indy 500 or the Brickyard 400 and expect to hand an attendant a credit card at the gate. Official lots are primarily pre-sold, and they disappear fast.
Lots open at 5:00 AM on Race Day. If you have an official pass, you still need to arrive early to claim a good spot within your designated lot. If you missed out on buying directly from the track, secondary market and resale parking passes for major races average $231, with premium lots reaching $400-$800+.
Detailed Breakdown of Top IMS Parking Options
To help you figure out exactly where to put your car, here is a comprehensive look at the major parking options around the track.
| Parking Option | Price | Distance to Gate | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official IMS Outside Lots (Lot 1, 2, Main Gate) | $65/event | 5-15 min walk | Closest to exterior gates, guaranteed spot if bought early, easy access to outer grandstands. | Sells out months in advance, severe post-race exit delays. |
| IMS Infield Parking (Turn 3 / Turn 4) | $80/event | 0 min walk (Inside track) | Ultimate tailgating experience, direct viewing from grassy hills, easy access to your vehicle for coolers. | Requires navigating tunnels, 2 to 3 hour gridlock wait to exit post-race. |
| Town of Speedway Residential Yard Parking | $15 - $40/event (Avg $20) | 15-30 min walk | Cheaper than official lots, avoids track-property exit gridlock, supports local residents. | Cash only, fills up rapidly by 7:00 AM, longer walk. |
| Speedway 22 Lot (3723 W. 30th St.) | $50/event | 15 min walk (0.8 miles) | Dedicated 525-spot facility, allows tailgating, cheaper than official lots. | Requires a 0.8-mile walk to the gate. |
| Dotlich Parking at Speedway Industrial Park | $80 - $100/event | 10-15 min walk (0.5 to 0.75 miles) | Massive capacity (700 spots total), secure industrial park, easy walking distance to Turn 1. | No overnight parking or camping allowed. |
| Gate 10 Events Downtown Shuttle | $50 round-trip pass + $20 parking | 6 miles (Shuttle ride) | Avoids driving in Speedway gridlock, drops off right at the Main Gate lot on 16th St. | Must adhere to shuttle schedules, long bus ride in traffic, items cannot be left on the bus. |
Where are the official lots located?
- Lot 1: Located directly west of the track, running parallel to Georgetown Road. This is highly coveted for fans sitting in the front stretch or Turn 1 grandstands.
- Lot 2: Located just north of the track off 30th Street. Excellent for Turn 3 and Turn 4 seating.
- Main Gate Lot: Positioned right across 16th Street on the south end of the track. If you park here, expect massive pedestrian traffic when you try to leave.
If you don't already have one of these passes in hand, you need to look at secondary markets or pivot entirely to the surrounding neighborhoods to Indianapolis Motor Speedway parking options.
How to Access Infield Parking at IMS and Tailgating Rules
How do you get to the infield parking at the Indy 500? Accessing infield parking requires driving through underground vehicle tunnels beneath the 2.5-mile track. The primary entrances are Gate 10 via 30th Street or Gate 2 via 16th Street.
Infield parking costs $80 per event and places you directly inside the massive interior of the speedway, typically near Turn 3 or Turn 4. This is the holy grail for tailgaters. Infield lots open at 6:00 AM, a moment traditionally accompanied by literal cannon fire echoing across the grounds.
IMS Infield Parking Rules and Tunnel Navigation
Getting your vehicle into the infield means crossing the track itself. Because you obviously cannot drive over the racing surface, you must go under it.
- Gate 10 (30th Street): This is the preferred tunnel for heavy traffic. Gate 10 utilizes a 6-lane driveway designed specifically to swallow traffic faster than other gates. It pulls cars off 30th Street quickly, funneling them into the subterranean passage that pops out right into the North Infield.
- Gate 2 (16th Street): This tunnel is on the south side of the track. Because 16th Street completely shuts down and westbound traffic is heavily diverted by local police on race morning, getting to Gate 2 requires following strict traffic routing patterns.
Once you emerge from the tunnels, track staff will direct you to the grassy parking zones in Turn 3 or Turn 4. You will be parking on grass, dirt, and gravel. If it rained heavily the week prior to the race, prepare for mud.
Can I tailgate in the infield at the Indy 500?
Yes, tailgating is highly encouraged in the infield. Because you are parking your car inside the venue, your vehicle becomes your home base.
- Cooler Rules: Pack a massive cooler for your car tailgate. You can bring huge spreads, grills, and seating for the parking area. However, remember that if you plan to walk from your car to the actual grandstand seats, grandstand coolers must be much smaller (maximum 18x14x15 inches). Hard-sided and soft-sided coolers are fine, but track gate staff will absolutely measure them before letting you up into the stands. Leave the 100-quart yeti in the car.
- Glass Bottles: Leave the glass at home. IMS has a strict no-glass policy. Bring cans or plastic bottles only.
- Grilling: Small propane and charcoal grills are typically allowed in the infield parking zones, but you must dispose of charcoal safely. Do not dump hot coals on the dry grass.
Residential Lawn Parking Near 16th Street: Costs and Cash Rules
Residential lawn parking town of speedway indiana is a massive part of the race day culture. Local residential yard parking typically ranges from $15 to $40, averaging around $20 per vehicle. Yards provide a 15-30 minute walk to the gates but make escaping the town much easier post-race.
The Town of Speedway is an independent municipality completely enveloped by the larger city of Indianapolis. It consists of quiet, tree-lined residential streets right up to the edge of the massive grandstands. On race weekend, almost every homeowner turns their front lawn, backyard, and driveway into a pop-up parking business.
Indy 500 yard parking cost and exact locations
If you drive down Main Street, Auburn Street, Winton Avenue, or Presto Street on race morning, you will see hand-painted cardboard signs staked into front lawns reading "Race Parking $20" or "Park Here $30".
Prices fluctuate based on exactly how far you are willing to walk.
- Closest Yards (Less than 0.5 miles from the track): Expect to pay $40 to $50. These prime yard spots fill up rapidly by 7:00 AM on major race days.
- Mid-Range Yards (0.5 to 1 mile away): You will find plenty of $20 and $25 spots here.
- Far Yards (1+ miles away): You can easily find $15 spots if you don't mind a 30-minute hike.
Why You Must Bring Physical Cash
This is the most critical tip for parking in the Town of Speedway: Bring physical cash.
Do not rely on digital payments. You might assume you can just Venmo, Zelle, or Apple Pay the homeowner for a spot on their grass. You cannot. With 300,000+ attendees flooding a few square miles, local cell towers routinely fail. Network congestion gets so severe that data connections drop entirely by 8:00 AM.
Homeowners know this, and most will flat out refuse anything but cash. If you pull up to a great $20 spot without a twenty-dollar bill, you will be turned away while the person behind you takes the spot. Hit an ATM before you get anywhere near the track.
Reserve Speedway Driveway Parking Ahead of Time with Prked
If cruising the neighborhoods at 6:00 AM with a wad of cash hoping to find a stranger's empty lawn sounds stressful, you have a better option. You can completely bypass the chaos when you reserve parking at Indianapolis Motor Speedway ahead of time using Prked.
Booking local residential driveways ahead of time via the Prked app completely bypasses the "cash-only cell service drop" problem. You pay digitally days or weeks in advance, get a guaranteed spot, and know exactly where you are driving before you leave your house.
The massive advantage of driveway parking
Why is a reserved residential driveway better than an official IMS parking pass? Locking in a local driveway means you avoid the official lot 2-hour post-race lock-in.
When you park in an official track lot, track security literally locks the gates after the race. They will not let vehicles move until the massive pedestrian crowds clear the nearby roads. If you park on a residential driveway a few blocks away, you are completely free from track jurisdiction. You can walk to your car, back out, and weave through the neighborhood streets to escape while the official lots are completely paralyzed.
Secure spots within a 10-minute walk without having to wake up before dawn. Just open the app, find a pin near the gate you want to enter, and book your spot to lock in your race day logistics.
Best Time to Arrive for Indy 500 Parking and QR Routing Hacks
What time do parking lots open at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Official lots open at 5:00 AM. The best time to arrive for Indy 500 parking is between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM. Arriving at 8:00 AM almost guarantees 2 hours of standstill gridlock.
The difference between arriving at 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM is monumental. At 6:30, you will hit slow-moving traffic, but the roads continuously flow. By 8:30 AM, the volume of cars simply overwhelms the infrastructure of the Town of Speedway.
Indy 500 parking tips for first-timers and best arrival times
- 16th Street completely shuts down: Early in the morning, local police shut down 16th Street—the main artery running past the track—to handle pedestrian flow and specific gate routing. Westbound traffic is heavily diverted. Do not trust generic GPS directions that tell you to drive straight down 16th Street; you will run directly into police barricades.
- Georgetown Road becomes pedestrian-only: The road running along the main grandstands (Georgetown Road) completely closes to vehicular traffic on race day.
- The QR Code Routing Hack: If you have an official IMS parking pass, look at your digital ticket. Official IMS digital parking passes feature QR codes that automatically load custom routing into Google Maps or Waze. Use this. These custom links are built by the track to deliberately route you around the neighborhood road closures and police barricades to get you directly to your specific lot entrance.
What is the best route to take for Indy 500 parking? It depends entirely on where you are parking. If you are aiming for Lot 2 or Gate 10, come from the north or east via 30th Street. If you are heading to the Main Gate lot, approach from the south via Crawfordsville Road. If you decide to find parking here in the neighborhoods, approach from the west side of Speedway to avoid the track-adjacent closures.
The Post-Race Parking Lockdown: Why You Need a Tailgate Plan
How long does it take to leave the Indy 500? Post-race, vehicles are strictly held in official IMS lots for 1 to 2 hours (up to 3 hours for deep Turn 3 infield) to allow massive pedestrian crowds to clear the streets.
This is the biggest secret that generic parking guides fail to mention, and it catches first-timers completely off guard every year. When the checkered flag waves and the race is over, your instinct will be to sprint to your car and beat the traffic.
Do not immediately start your engine after the race.
Track traffic control and local police flip the surrounding roads to prioritize foot traffic. Hundreds of thousands of pedestrians dump out of the grandstands simultaneously. To keep them safe, vehicles inside official lots (like Lot 1, Lot 2, and all Infield parking) are placed under a strict lockdown. Security personnel will physically block the exits. You cannot leave.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway tailgating after the race
Instead of sitting in the driver's seat baking in the sun with the AC running and wasting gas, you need a post-race tailgate plan.
- The 90-Minute Rule: Plan to tailgate at your car for 90-120 minutes after the checkered flag.
- The Secondary Stash: Keep a secondary stash of water, snacks, and perhaps a couple of celebratory beverages hidden in a separate cooler in your trunk specifically for the exit wait. You will likely have exhausted your primary cooler during the pre-race tailgate and the race itself. Opening your trunk to find ice-cold water and sandwiches makes the two-hour lockdown feel like an exclusive after-party rather than a hostage situation.
- Turn 3 Warnings: If you parked deep in the Turn 3 infield, you are the furthest from the exit tunnels. You will be the last to leave. Prepare for a 3-hour wait. Unfold your lawn chairs, turn on the post-race radio broadcast, and relax.
Indy 500 Shuttle Locations and Uber/Lyft Drop-Off Zones
Where is the Uber and Lyft drop off at IMS? If using Uber or Lyft, do not request your ride at the gate. The app is geofenced. You must walk to 10th Street and Polco Street to successfully request a driver.
Trying to rideshare to and from the largest single-day sporting event in the world is incredibly difficult, but it can be done if you understand the rules of the road.
Where is the uber drop off for indy 500?
Uber and Lyft set up strict geofences around the track perimeter. You cannot get dropped off at the main gate, and you absolutely cannot get picked up there. The designated rideshare zone is located near the intersection of 10th Street and Polco Street, southeast of the track.
This requires a significant walk. From the main grandstands, you are looking at a 1.5-mile hike through thick crowds to reach the rideshare pickup zone. Furthermore, cellular service failures mean your app will struggle to connect.
- Surge Pricing Warning: Rideshare surge pricing frequently hits 4x-6x standard rates. Post-race rides back to downtown Indianapolis frequently cost $100+.
Downtown Indianapolis to IMS race day shuttle pick-up
A far more reliable alternative to ridesharing is utilizing the official track shuttles.
- Downtown Shuttle Location: Official Race Day downtown shuttles depart from Lucas Oil Stadium / Gate 10 Lot (the stadium downtown, not Gate 10 at the track).
- Airport Shuttle Location: The Indianapolis International Airport also hosts an official park-and-ride shuttle.
- Shuttle Cost: Passes cost $50 round-trip per person. If you need to park your car at the downtown shuttle pickup lot, it will cost an additional $20.
Shuttles bypass standard gridlock by using dedicated police-escorted routes. They drop you off relatively close to the track. However, you cannot leave any items on the bus during the race, so you must carry everything you need.
The Ultimate Traffic Cheat Code: Bike to the 500
Are bicycles and scooters allowed in the infield? Bicycles are a great way to get to the track perimeter, but riding them inside the crowded infield pedestrian zones is strictly restricted.
If you want to bypass the traffic entirely, avoid paying surge pricing, and skip the 2-hour post-race lockdown, you should look into the "Bike to the 500" program. This has rapidly become the ultimate cheat code for locals and savvy visitors.
How Bike to the 500 works
Organized by local cycling groups, the 'Bike to the 500' program is a fully police-escorted commute starting from the 16 Tech district downtown. Hundreds of cyclists gather on race morning and ride together in a massive peloton.
- Free Valet Parking: Riders completely bypass all gridlock. Once you arrive at the track, you receive free valet bicycle parking directly at Gates 1 and 2.
- Security: Your bike is guarded by volunteers for the duration of the race, meaning you don't have to worry about locks or theft.
- The Exit: When the race ends, you just grab your bike and pedal away. While cars are sitting in the lots for two hours, you are already halfway back to downtown Indianapolis.
Motorcycles have slightly different rules. Indianapolis motor speedway motorcycle parking is typically available in specific sections of the outside lots, often near the main gate or Lot 2, but requires a standard vehicle parking pass.

Parking options available near Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Handicap Parking at IMS: The ADA Shuttle Catch-22
How does ADA handicap parking work at the Indy 500? Accessible ADA parking is available in official lots for standard parking fees, but ADA golf cart shuttles operate strictly inside the IMS admission gates. They will NOT travel to exterior parking lots to pick guests up.
This is a critical detail that most generic guides get wrong, causing immense frustration for guests with mobility issues.
Handicap parking and ADA shuttle accessibility at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Yes, there are designated handicap parking spots in official lots (like Lot 1, Lot 2, and the Main Gate Lot). You must have a state-issued placard to use them, and you still must pay the standard parking fee (or possess a pre-purchased parking pass).
THE CATCH-22: The Speedway is massive. The walk from the parking lot to the grandstands can easily be a mile. IMS provides ADA accessibility golf cart shuttles to help guests with mobility issues get to their seats. However, these shuttles are strictly prohibited from leaving the ticketed perimeter of the track.
Guests with mobility issues must first navigate from their parked vehicle, across the roads, and completely through the ticketed entry gates using their own power (wheelchair, walker, or on foot) before they can access any shuttle assistance. Only once you are inside the gates can you queue up for an ADA golf cart to take you the rest of the way to your specific grandstand section. Plan your drop-offs and wheelchair arrangements accordingly.
Is Parking Free on Practice Days at IMS?
Is parking free on practice days at IMS? Yes, during the month of May, Practice and Qualifying days have entirely different parking logistics than Race Day. Free parking is often available in Lot 7 (North 40) during weekday practice sessions.
If you are attending the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for any event other than the actual Indy 500 race day, the rules shift dramatically.
Indianapolis motor speedway parking practice days
During the early and middle weeks of May, crowds are significantly smaller. You do not need to deal with $40 yard parking or 5:00 AM arrivals.
- Lot 7 (The North 40): Located off 30th street, this massive field is usually opened up for free parking during weekday practice sessions. You just drive in, park on the grass, and walk to the viewing mounds or open grandstands.
- Infield Parking: On certain qualifying days, infield parking may be available for a heavily reduced fee, allowing you to tailgate right against the fence while cars run practice laps at 230+ mph.
Is parking free at the IMS museum on race day?
The world-class IMS Museum is physically located inside the track perimeter, accessed via Gate 2 off 16th Street. On normal days throughout the year, you can just drive right into the track and park at the museum for free while you visit.
However, on actual race days, parking is closed to museum guests unless they possess a specific race parking pass. You cannot use a "museum visit" as an excuse to drive your car into the infield on race morning. The track is completely locked down for event attendees only.
Indy 500 Coke Lot 1C Camping Rules and RV Parking
Can you park an RV at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Yes. RV camping 4-day passes start at $150 for non-electric lots, while premium infield spots range from $125 to $750. The largest RV zone is Lot 1C, famously known as the Coke Lot.
If you want the ultimate immersive race weekend experience, you don't park for a few hours—you camp for the weekend. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers several massive camping zones, but none are as famous (or infamous) as Lot 1C.
What are the rules for camping in the Coke Lot?
Lot 1C, affectionately known as "The Coke Lot," is a massive party camping lot located about 1 mile west of Gate 9. It is essentially a temporary city of RVs, school buses, tents, and tailgaters that springs up on Thursday and doesn't sleep until Monday.
If you are planning to bring an RV or set up a tent in the Coke Lot, you must understand the "striped parking plan."
- The Striped Parking Plan: The Coke Lot enforces strict, sequential parking to maximize space. Vehicles are parked shoulder-to-shoulder exactly as they arrive off the street.
- No Saving Spots: If your group has three RVs and you want to camp together, you must arrive in a caravan at the exact same time. The lot attendants will not let you rope off an area or "save a spot" for a friend arriving two hours later. If you aren't bumper-to-bumper when you pull through the gate, you will be parked on opposite sides of the massive field.
The Coke lot is loud, dusty, and legendary. If you prefer a quieter RV experience, look into the premium infield spots or the lots situated further north away from the primary party zones.
Whether you are pulling a 40-foot RV into the Coke Lot, navigating the 30th street tunnels for an infield tailgate, or hunting for a quiet residential yard spot to stash your car, success at the track requires a plan. Cell service will fail, traffic will gridlock, and the sheer scale of 300,000 people will test your patience. Lock in your strategy early, explore Indianapolis Motor Speedway parking options, pack extra water for the post-race wait, and enjoy the greatest spectacle in racing.
Parking Map & Zones Guide
Parking zones guide for Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Lot names and locations sourced from venue maps.
Navigating the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) requires strategic planning, as the venue spans over 250 acres with highly strictly regulated traffic patterns. The official parking system is divided into four major color-coded zones: Red (West/Northwest), Green (South), Yellow (Infield), and Orange (East). Official passes utilize a QR code system—scanning it will route you directly through Waze to your designated lot's coded entry point, bypassing race-day road closures. Do not use standard GPS on race day, as routes like Georgetown Road are completely closed at Crawfordsville Road and 16th Street. Plan to arrive at the gate closest to your seats before 10:00 AM. Be prepared for the strict post-race lockdown: vehicles in official lots will be held for up to 1 hour (and infield lots until 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM) to allow pedestrian traffic to clear.
Complete Lot Comparison Matrix
| Lot Name | Zone | Type | Nearest Gate | Est. Price (Race Day) | Walk Time / Distance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOT 7 (NORTH 40) | Red | Camping/Parking/ADA | Gate 10, Gate 11 | Free to $65 | 5-10 min | Budget-friendly practice days, Brickyard 400 |
| NW GRAVEL | Red | Parking/ADA | Gate 10 | $225 | 5-10 min | Premium unpaved access |
| LOT 4AP | Red | Premium Camping | Gate 9 (Georgetown Rd) | $475+ | < 5 min | Luxury RVs (20' x 50' spots) |
| LOT 4 | Red | Camping/Parking | Gate 9 | $135 - $1,108 (Sec.) | < 5 min | Family-friendly camping |
| LOT 1B | Red | Parking | Gate 9A (Georgetown Rd) | $65 | 5-10 min | Quick Westside access |
| LOT 1A | Red | Camping/Parking | Gate 9 | $65 | 5-10 min | Proximity to Coke Facility |
| LOT 1C | Red | Camping | Gate 9 (Georgetown Rd) | $55 | 10-15 min | The famous "Coke Lot" party atmosphere |
| LOT 8 | Green | Parking/Shuttle | Gate 8 | $65 | < 5 min | Pre-paid shuttle pickup |
| HULMAN | Green | Parking/Shuttle/ADA | Gate 7 | $65 | < 5 min | Hulman Suites access |
| LOT 6 | Green | Camping | Gate 6 | $65 | < 5 min | Meyers Ave camping |
| LOT 6A | Green | Parking | Gate 6, Gate 7S | $65 | < 5 min | South Georgetown Rd access |
| LOT 9 | Green | Camping | Gate 6 | $65 | < 5 min | Proximity to Gate 6 clusters |
| LOT 2 | Green | Camping/Parking/ADA | Gate 5 | $65 | < 5 min | South end tailgate |
| LOT 5 | Green | Parking | Gate 5 | $65 | 5-10 min | Cord St parking |
| GATE 1 | Green | Parking/ADA | Gate 1 | $65 | < 5 min | Direct Crawfordsville Rd exit |
| TURN 3 | Yellow | Infield Parking | Gate 10 (Tunnel) | $80 | 0.09 miles | North viewing mounds |
| TURN 4 | Yellow | Infield Parking | Gate 10 (Tunnel) | $80 | 5-10 min | NW infield access |
| N LOT | Yellow | Infield Parking | Infield Center | $80 | 5-10 min | Pagoda & Dirt Track access |
| LAKESIDE | Yellow | Infield Parking | Infield East | $80 | 5-10 min | Snake Pit proximity |
| 5TH & HULMAN | Yellow | Infield Parking | Infield East | $80 | 5-10 min | Central infield access |
| TOWER | Yellow | Infield Parking | Infield South | $80 | 5-10 min | Tower Terrace Suites |
| LOT 3G | Orange | Camping/Parking | Gate 4 | $65 | 5-10 min | Turn 2 Suites / Grass parking |
| BRICKYARD CROSSING | Orange | Parking/ADA | Gate 4, Gate 12 | $65 | < 5 min | East side VIP / Golf Course |
| LOT 3P | Orange | Camping/Parking/ADA | Gate 3 | $65 | 5-10 min | S.E. Vista access (Paved) |
| MAIN GATE (Polco) | Orange | Parking | Gate 2 | $65 | < 5 min | Direct 16th St / Gate 2 access |
| MAIN GATE (1B.1) | Orange | Parking/Shuttle | Gate 2, Gate 1B.1 | $65 | < 5 min | East side shuttle access |
| MG PAVED | Orange | Parking | Gate 1 | $65 | < 5 min | South Vista / Mud-free parking |
Zone Breakdowns
Red Zone (West & Northwest)
The Red Zone dominates the Georgetown Road corridor and 30th Street. This is the heart of IMS camping and massive outdoor lots.
- Locations: LOT 7 (NORTH 40), NW GRAVEL, LOT 4AP, LOT 4, LOT 1B, LOT 1A, LOT 1C.
- Pricing: Ranges from Free (Lot 7 on practice days) to $65 for standard race-day parking, up to $475 for premium RV camping, and $225 for NW Gravel. Secondary market passes here can soar to $1,100+.
- Pros: Massive capacity and iconic tailgating. Lot 4 is ideal for families, while Lot 1C (the "Coke Lot") is the legendary, raucous party hub.
- Cons: Post-race routing is strictly enforced. You will be forced from Lafayette Road north to I-65, or east on 16th Street, regardless of your destination.
- Insider Tip: LOT 7 (NORTH 40) is frequently Free for practice days, qualifying, and the Brickyard 400.
Green Zone (South & Southwest)
The Green Zone hugs 16th Street and the southern end of Georgetown Road.
- Locations: LOT 8, HULMAN, LOT 6, LOT 6A, LOT 9, LOT 2, LOT 5, GATE 1.
- Pricing: Standard outside lots are $65 for the Indy 500, but drop to $20 for events like the Sonsio Grand Prix (though Gate 1 Lot is $50 for the GP).
- Pros: Incredible proximity to the Main Gate and South Vistas. Lots like LOT 2 and GATE 1 offer extremely short walks (< 5 min).
- Cons: Heavy post-race gridlock. Vehicles leaving here are forced South on Lynhurst Drive, then West on 10th Street or Rockville Road toward I-465.
- Insider Tip: If you want to avoid official lot prices, the residential yards south of the track in the Town of Speedway average $20 for grass parking.
Yellow Zone (Infield)
Parking directly inside the iconic oval.
- Locations: TURN 3, TURN 4, N LOT, LAKESIDE, 5TH & HULMAN, TOWER.
- Pricing: Flat rate of $80 for the Indy 500.
- Pros: You are inside the track. Walk times to infield attractions like the Snake Pit or Pagoda are minimal.
- Cons: Severe post-race lockdown. Vehicle tunnels (accessed via Gate 10 or Gate 2) close during the race and hold vehicles until the pedestrian masses clear. You may not exit until 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM.
- Insider Tip: Only cars, light trucks, and vans are allowed. Bicycles, scooters, and box trucks are strictly prohibited. Turn 3 is exactly 0.09 miles from the North Entrance.
Orange Zone (East & Southeast)
The East side features a mix of paved and grass lots, heavily utilized for Main Gate and Brickyard Crossing access.
- Locations: LOT 3G, BRICKYARD CROSSING, LOT 3P, MAIN GATE, MG PAVED.
- Pricing: Generally $65.
- Pros: MG PAVED and LOT 3P are paved, making them highly recommended to avoid getting stuck in the mud if it rains.
- Cons: 16th Street access becomes heavily restricted. Gate 2 on 16th Street can only be entered from the west-bound lanes on race day.
- Insider Tip: Pre-paid shuttles drop off near the MAIN GATE (East side).
Gate-by-Gate Parking Recommendations
- Gate 1, 1B.1 & 1C (South East / Main Gate Area): Park in GATE 1, MG PAVED, or MAIN GATE. If those are full, LOT 2 on Georgetown Rd is an excellent alternative. For off-site, the Dotlich Parking lot (Speedway Industrial Park at 10th & Polco St) is a 0.5 to 0.75-mile walk to Turn 1.
- Gate 2 (Main Gate): MAIN GATE lots are immediately adjacent. Note that all motorcycles must enter through Gate 2.
- Gates 3 & 4 (East Side): Target LOT 3P, LOT 3G, or BRICKYARD CROSSING.
- Gate 9 & 9A (South West Corner): The best options are LOT 4, LOT 1A, and LOT 1B. If you have a premium RV, LOT 4AP is right here.
- Gate 10 (North West Corner): This is the primary entrance for the north end and Turn 3 infield. Park in LOT 7 (NORTH 40) or NW GRAVEL. You must traverse a 6-lane entrance driveway to get under the track here.
ADA & Accessible Parking Zones
ADA parking at IMS is clearly indicated by blue wheelchair symbols. Dedicated accessible spaces are located in LOT 7 (NORTH 40), NW GRAVEL, HULMAN, GATE 1, LOT 2, BRICKYARD CROSSING, and LOT 3P. Ensure your state-issued placard is visible. ADA tickets and parking accommodations must be arranged in advance by calling the IMS Ticket Office at 317-492-6700.
Premium & VIP Parking
For high-end setups, LOT 4AP offers premium dry RV camping. Spaces are a massive 20' x 50' (standard is 20' x 40'), and passes cost roughly $475 for the weekend. It features pre-determined generator hookups and a dedicated dump station. For standard vehicles, NW GRAVEL provides premium north-end access for $225 on Race Day and $175 on Carb Day. VIP infield access for suite ticket holders (Hulman Suites, Tower Terrace, Paddock Penthouse) typically routes through the Gate 2 or Gate 7 tunnels directly to the TOWER or HULMAN areas.
Tailgate & Pre-Game Parking
Tailgating is a massive part of the IMS experience, particularly in the Red and Green Zones.
- Camping Specs: RV spaces in lots like Lot 1C and Lot 4 are 20' x 40' (includes 6 wristbands). Tent spaces are 20' x 20' (4 wristbands). Motorcycle spaces are 5' x 8'. Additional wristbands cost $15.
- Tailgate Rules: Portable shelters (like EZ-Ups) cannot exceed 10' x 10' and must be secured behind your vehicle. No stakes may be driven into the ground in premium lots like LOT 4AP.
- Vibe Check: For a wild, multi-day festival atmosphere, book LOT 1C. For a quieter, family-friendly tailgate, choose LOT 4. Curfew for outside campers is strictly enforced between 1:00 AM and public gate opening times (which is 6:00 AM on Race Day).
Best Entry Routes
Your entry route is dictated by your parking pass, not your GPS.
- From the West (30th Street): Use this to access LOT 7 and NW GRAVEL. Traffic flows strictly West into the Gate 10 area.
- From the West (Georgetown Rd): Use this corridor for LOT 4AP, LOT 4, LOT 1B, LOT 1A, and LOT 1C.
- From the South/East (W. 16th Street): This feeds LOT 8, HULMAN, LOT 6, LOT 6A, LOT 9, LOT 2, LOT 5, GATE 1, MAIN GATE, and LOT 3P. Crucial Rule: On Race Day, you can only enter Gate 2 and the 16th Street lots from the west-bound lanes.
- From Crawfordsville Rd (South East): Feeds directly into GATE 1, LOT 5, and LOT 2.
- From Polco St (East): Best direct route for the MAIN GATE lots.
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Find Parking Near This VenueFrequently Asked Questions About Indianapolis Motor Speedway Parking
Is there parking at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
Yes, there is official parking at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in both exterior lots and the infield. Official outside lots like Lot 1 and Lot 2 offer a 5-15 minute walk to the gates, while infield parking puts you right inside the track. Official passes routinely sell out up to a month in advance, so if you do not pre-purchase, you will need to rely on independent local lots or residential yards.
How much does parking cost at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
Official parking at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway costs an average of $65 for outside lots and $80 for infield access during major events. If you miss out on buying directly from the track, secondary market resale passes average $231 and can reach $400-$800 for premium spots. For a cheaper alternative, local residential yard parking averages around $20 per event.
Where is the best place to park for the Indy 500?
The best place to park for the Indy 500 depends on your goal: infield parking (Turn 3/Turn 4) provides the ultimate tailgating experience, while the Town of Speedway residential yards offer a faster, cheaper exit. Infield parking costs $80 and requires navigating underground tunnels, often resulting in a 2-3 hour post-race gridlock. Residential yards cost about $20, involve a 15-30 minute walk, but allow you to avoid the severe track-property exit delays.
How much does yard parking cost in Speedway, Indiana?
Yard parking in the Town of Speedway, Indiana typically costs between $15 and $40 per event, with an average price of $20. These residential spots are significantly cheaper than the $65 official lots and offer a 15-30 minute walk to the admission gates. Be sure to bring physical cash, as overloaded cell towers will likely cause digital payment apps like Venmo or Zelle to fail on race day.
What time should I arrive for Indy 500 parking?
You should arrive for Indy 500 parking between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM to secure a spot and beat the heaviest traffic. Official exterior lots open at 5:00 AM, and infield lots open at 6:00 AM accompanied by cannon fire. If you wait until 8:00 AM to arrive, you are practically guaranteed to sit in two hours of standstill gridlock.
Can I buy IMS parking passes in advance?
Yes, you can and should buy IMS parking passes in advance, as official Race Day parking routinely sells out up to a month before the event. Digital passes purchased ahead of time include QR codes that automatically load custom routing into Google Maps or Waze to help you bypass specific neighborhood road closures. If official passes are sold out, secondary market resale passes average $231.
Is there free parking near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
There is generally no free parking near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on major race days, but Practice and Qualifying days often feature free parking in Lot 7 (North 40). During the Indy 500, expect to pay around $20 for residential yard parking or $50-$100 at independent facilities like the Speedway 22 Lot. Trying to find free street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods is virtually impossible due to strict event road closures.
How far is the walk from the parking lots to the main gates?
The walk from the official exterior parking lots to the main gates at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is typically 5 to 15 minutes. If you park in independent facilities like the Speedway 22 Lot, the walk is roughly 0.8 miles or 15 minutes. Cheaper residential yard parking further into the Town of Speedway will require a 15 to 30-minute walk to reach the admission entries.
Where is the designated Uber/Lyft zone for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
The most reliable Uber and Lyft pickup zone for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is located near the intersection of 10th Street and Polco Street. Because 16th Street is completely closed and rideshare apps are geofenced near the track, you must walk away from the main gates before requesting a ride. Keep in mind that post-race surge pricing frequently hits 4x-6x, making rides downtown cost $100 or more.
How do I access the infield parking tunnels at IMS?
You access the infield parking tunnels at IMS by driving through specific underground vehicle tunnels that run beneath the 2.5-mile track, such as Gate 10 via 30th Street or Gate 2 via 16th Street. Gate 10 is highly recommended for infield access because it utilizes a 6-lane driveway designed specifically to swallow traffic much faster than other gates. Remember that infield lots open at 6:00 AM, signaled by the traditional cannon fire.
What time do the IMS parking lots open on race day?
Official IMS exterior parking lots open at 5:00 AM on race day. If you have an infield parking pass, those lots open one hour later at 6:00 AM, signaled by cannon fire. You still need to arrive early to claim a good spot within your designated lot, as spaces fill up rapidly well before the green flag.
Is there a shuttle from downtown Indianapolis to the Speedway?
Yes, there is a downtown Indianapolis shuttle to the Speedway operated by Gate 10 Events. Official Race Day downtown shuttle passes cost $50 per person for a round-trip ticket, plus an additional $20 fee to park your vehicle at the shuttle pickup lot. The bus drops you off right at the Main Gate lot on 16th Street, completely avoiding the stress of driving in Speedway gridlock.
Does ADA parking include a shuttle to my seat at IMS?
ADA golf cart shuttles operate strictly inside the IMS admission gates and do not travel to exterior parking lots to pick up guests. This means you must navigate from your ADA parking spot to the admission gates on your own. Once inside the gates, you can catch the internal shuttle to assist you in getting closer to your specific grandstand seating.
What are the rules for camping and parking in the Coke Lot?
Lot 1C, famously known as the Coke Lot, employs a strict striped parking plan for camping and parking. This specific rule requires groups who want to camp together to arrive in their vehicles at the exact same time. It is a massive, high-energy camping area, so coordinating your arrival is critical if you want your setup adjacent to your friends.
Can I park my RV at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
Yes, you can park your RV at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with 4-day camping passes starting at $150 for non-electric sites. For a closer experience, premium infield RV spots range from $125 to $750 depending on the location and amenities. Due to the high demand among the 300,000 attendees, these RV spots sell out quickly and must be booked well in advance.
Are bicycles and scooters allowed in the IMS infield?
Bicycles and motorized scooters are not allowed inside the IMS infield or through the admission gates on major race days. With crowds exceeding 300,000 people, pedestrian safety is the priority, so wheeled transport is strictly prohibited inside the facility. You will need to utilize the official bike racks outside the venue and walk to your grandstand or infield tailgating spot.
Where are the bike racks located at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
Bike racks are located outside the main admission gates of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for fans commuting on two wheels. You must secure your bike outside the venue since bicycles are not permitted inside the gates or the infield. Be sure to bring a high-quality lock, and remember that any bags or coolers you carry from your bike must meet the track's 18x14x15 maximum size limit.
What is the best way to avoid traffic when leaving IMS parking?
The best way to avoid traffic when leaving IMS parking is to plan to tailgate at your car for 90 to 120 minutes after the race ends. Post-race, vehicles in official lots are strictly held in place by traffic control for 1 to 2 hours (up to 3 hours for deep Turn 3 infield) to allow pedestrian crowds to clear safely. Relaxing by your car with your remaining food and drinks is much better than turning your engine on and sitting in standstill gridlock.
Which IMS gate should I use for infield parking access?
You should use Gate 10 via 30th Street for the most efficient infield parking access at IMS. Gate 10 features a massive 6-lane driveway designed specifically to swallow vehicle traffic faster than the other tunnel entrances. Gate 2 via 16th Street is another underground tunnel option, but it tends to back up much quicker on race mornings.
Can you leave your car overnight in IMS parking lots?
Leaving your car overnight is generally not permitted in standard daily IMS parking lots like Lot 1, Lot 2, or independent options like Dotlich Parking. Unless you have purchased a specific multi-day camping pass, vehicles left in daily parking areas post-event are subject to towing. Always plan a sober ride home or use the downtown shuttle if you cannot drive your car out by the evening.
How do the Park and Ride shuttles work for the Indy 500?
The Park and Ride shuttles for the Indy 500 operate from designated downtown lots and the airport, dropping fans off directly at the Main Gate on 16th Street. Operated by Gate 10 Events, a round-trip shuttle pass costs $50, plus a $20 parking fee at the origin lot. It is a highly effective way to bypass track traffic, but remember that you cannot leave items on the bus during the race.
Where to park if the official IMS lots are sold out?
If official IMS lots are sold out, you can park in residential yards in the Town of Speedway or at independent facilities like the Speedway 22 Lot and Dotlich Parking. Residential yard parking averages $20 and involves a 15-30 minute walk, but requires physical cash. Independent commercial lots range from $50 to $100 and offer secure parking within a 0.5 to 0.8-mile walk of the gates.
Is there specific parking for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum?
When attending major race days, there is no dedicated museum parking; you must utilize standard IMS parking and access the museum from inside the track. On non-race days, you can typically park right at the museum inside the track, but during the Indy 500 or Brickyard 400, regular event parking rules and passes apply. You will need to park in an official lot or neighborhood yard and walk through the gates to reach the facility.
Are there EV charging stations at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
There are no dedicated EV charging stations available for public use in the daily IMS parking lots or the grassy infield tailgating areas. Fans driving electric vehicles to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway should ensure they have a full charge before arriving in Speedway. Navigating the heavy traffic and 2-hour post-race exit lockdowns will drain your battery, and local residential yards will not have charging capabilities.
How much is parking for the Brickyard 400 compared to the Indy 500?
Parking for the Brickyard 400 typically mirrors the official Indy 500 pricing, with outside lots averaging $65 and infield parking at $80. While official prices are similar for both events, secondary market passes and local residential yard parking are generally cheaper and easier to find during the Brickyard 400 due to slightly smaller crowds. Free parking in Lot 7 (North 40) is also common during Practice and Qualifying days for both events.
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