No. 5: IMS Museum Begins $89 Million Transformation
December 27, 2023 | By Curt Cavin, Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Note: The Penske Entertainment editorial staff is looking back at the 10 biggest moments of 2023 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in this year-end series, with one installment appearing on the site per day in countdown fashion from Dec. 22-31.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum closed in early November to begin a complete transformation, its first in 40 years.
“The Stories Behind the Spectacle” campaign began with a $89 million campaign – $64 million earmarked for the remaking of the interior of the building in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway infield.
The new exhibits and experiences set to open in the spring of 2025 will bring to life the museum’s vision to create a global destination that provides interactive, immersive and diverse Indianapolis 500 storytelling and educational experiences that can be enjoyed by guests of all ages.
A critical part of the campaign is a $20 million grant from Lilly Endowment that will be used to inspire student learning in a dedicated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) classroom at the museum that will feature robust educational resources and programs. A portion of the grant – $5 million – is conditioned on a $1-to-$1 match, which is designed to help the museum galvanize additional support.
The transformed museum will feature seven permanent and three rotating galleries, providing the opportunity to get up close to some of the world’s most unique and valuable racing artifacts on a behind-the-scenes tour.
A simulator will allow guests the opportunity to experience the sensation of traveling more than 200 mph around the iconic oval track. Guests also can learn to use the tools and equipment of the racing trade while they compete in a pit stop competition.
IMS Museum members will have access to new after-hours and backstage events, domestic and international excursions and trips, and other one-of-a-kind experiences.
The renovated IMS Museum is scheduled to open in time for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. During the closure, visitors can continue to enjoy track tours, including the popular “Kiss the Bricks” tour.
The museum is operated by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation, a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) entity that relies on individual memberships, sponsor partners and philanthropic donations for much of its operating budget.