The IMS Museum is open to the public after the completion of its $60.5 million, 17-month renovation, its first significant renovation in 40 years. Photo by Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopened this week for the first time since November 2023, unveiling a $25 million renovation that adds space, educational programming and increased accessibility for race fans of all abilities.

The 17-month renovation project expanded the facility by 40,000 square feet, allowing the museum to display more of its extensive collection of over 55,000 motorsports artifacts. The updated museum now features seven permanent and three rotating galleries, showcasing the history, culture, and innovation of the iconic speedway.

The museum, which opened in its current location in 1976, is also positioning itself as a hub for STEM and arts education. The renovation includes a new curriculum and programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of motorsports professionals.

A new innovation workshop previewing different roles in the motorsports industry to middle- and high-school age children, called the Qualifying Zone, features interactive exhibits, while the Allen Whitehill Clowes Foundation Innovation Workshop will host field trips and summer camps. Officials estimate that 3,000 to 4,000 students will visit the museum during April and May.

Accessibility was another key focus of the project. More than 180 workers contributed over 164,000 hours to the renovation, which included the installation of ramps, elevators, a wellness room and a wheelchair-accessible racing simulator that operates entirely by steering wheel controls.

Among the new exhibits is the Penske Gallery, which celebrates team owner Roger Penske’s legacy. Penske, who purchased the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2019, visited the gallery following last week’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. The space features memorabilia including race tickets and eight Indianapolis 500-winning engines, documenting the team’s record 20 victories at the event.

The museum is open daily. For more information, visit Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s website.