INDIANAPOLIS — The Indy 500 only happens once a year, but the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is ready to give visitors that race day experience every day.
The museum will reopen Wednesday after spending $60 million on a complete renovation. It was closed for a year and a half while it was under reconstruction.
"We've finally created a world-class museum devoted to the Indianapolis 500, and now it's up to the public to validate that," said museum president Joe Hale.
The new museum experience features a recreation of Gasoline Alley through the years, a movie that captures the traditions leading up to race day, and a prominent rotating podium for the Borg-Warner trophy.
Hale said he's most proud of the interactive elements, such as places to practice changing a tire or driving a lap in a race simulator.
"You're not walking into what may appear to be an indoor parking lot anymore," Hale said. "We have a museum that's immersive, participatory, and educational."
The outside of the building is mostly unchanged from its current structure, which opened in 1976. However, the construction within the walls doubled the amount of available exhibit space.
Hale hopes it leaves a lasting impression on both Hoosiers and visitors.
"I don't care where you go in the world. If you mention you're from Indianapolis or from Indiana, typically that person is going to know us because of the Indy 500," Hale said.
Tickets are available at this link.
-
ISP release identity of man killed in officer-involved shooting in Franklin
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is on the scene of an officer-involved shooting in Franklin.
Indiana Legislature to reconvene in December for redistricting discussions
The Indiana House returns Dec. 1 and the Senate Dec. 8 as the legislature reconvenes to consider a proposal to redraw the state’s congressional map.
Amazon announces $15 billion investment in Northern Indiana data centers
Amazon plans to invest an additional $15 billion in Northern Indiana to build data center campuses, the company announced, adding to its existing $11 billion commitment in St. Joseph County.
Mother of 2-year-old found shot to death inside south Indianapolis home
Police are investigating after a 26-year-old woman was found shot to death inside a residence on the city's south side late Monday night.
