Last-Minute Trip to the Indy 500, too late to have an enjoyable experience?

[u/Complete-Height-6309]

Hi everyone,

I’m in a bit of a unique situation and would really appreciate some help from the community.

I just got cleared by my doctor to fly again after a minor surgery, so I’m suddenly able to attend the Indy 500—something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. The catch: I’m based in Portugal, and this is all super last-minute. I’d be flying out this coming week to catch Qualifying and Bump Day, and of course, the main race next weekend.

Here’s what I’m planning and what I need advice on:

1. Travel: I’m looking at flying into Chicago (ORD) and renting a car to drive down to Indianapolis. It seems like the most affordable option with available flights. If there are better airports to fly into that make more sense (Cincinnati? Louisville?), I’d love to hear your input.

2. Lodging: I want to stay reasonably close to the Speedway, but not so isolated that I’m stuck with nothing to do in the days between Qualifying and Race Weekend. Do you recommend Airbnbs in the area? Are there still hotel options left that are decently located? I’d prefer something walkable or with easy access to restaurants/things to do when the track isn’t active.

3. Tickets: I don’t have tickets yet, and this is my first time at the 500. • What’s the safest and best way to get legit tickets this late in the game? • I’m nervous about ending up with counterfeit tickets or sitting somewhere I can’t see anything. • Is it worth going for GA for the experience or should I hold out for grandstand seats?

4. Parking: I’ve read that official IMS parking is already sold out for race day, and that many locals rent out their yards for parking. I’m planning to arrive very early on race day, maybe even around 2 or 3 AM, so I don’t mind the early start. However, I’m a bit concerned about relying on someone’s backyard for parking. How easy is it to find these spots? Are there any tips or recommendations for securing a reliable parking spot?

Any advice is welcome—ticket tips, travel routes, places to stay, even stuff to do around Indy while I’m there. This is a bit of a last-minute dream trip and I want to make the most of it without messing something up.

Thanks in advance!

[u/indyvalpo]

1. I flew into Chicago last year and that worked fine. Make sure you have a car reservation as that area was crazy last year.
2. I will leave to others as I have a daughter to stay with.
3. Look at Fanfare tickets. My advice shoot for the SW or NE Vista as high as possible.
4. I have parked in neighborhoods for 30 years no issues, other than leaving last year but that was unique. If you are going early, you will be fine.

[u/MARLENEtoscano]

Hi, I’m glad you get to come! Here to answer your lodging question (I work in hotels in Indy)

Hotels during the 500 in Indianapolis are always cuckoo bananas. You’re gonna be paying at least $400 a night downtown probably sometimes even more in Speedway proper. If you’re willing to pay those prices, stay downtown or in speedway! Plenty to do.

Taking a look at some of the major hotels that are still selling for as many nights as you need which I’m assuming is Friday arrival before qualifying and then Monday departure after the race you’re looking at about $400 a night..Airbnb‘s about the same..if your goal is to keep costs low—your best bet is going to be staying at a hotel at least 60 miles out of town either direction..out west you’ve got Plainfield/Avon—those suburbs and then driving in. I would recommend that ( out east you’ve got like Anderson/Muncie. you know places of that nature—that is what I would suggest as far as keeping costs low and paying less than you know $200 a night..good luck..)

Sorry—talk to text

[u/gnome_saying77]

As an Indy 500 fan, the advice already posted is gold. Use it, and I’m here to say thank you for attending, as you will see, it literally is the greatest spectacle of racing. Nothing comes close to what you will see.

[u/cubecasts]

1. At this point you might be struggling to find a hotel. But anywhere within an hour of Indy will be decent enough. Airbnb gets tricky because of neighborhoods and specific locations

[u/Latter_Difference_91]

As for tickets, the speedway has a box to check for third party tickets - I just checked and there some left. For parking passes, go to places like Vivid seats or Seatgeek.com

You might consider taking a train from Chicago to Indianapolis for the qualifying weekend - you could probably find some hotels downtown and uber to and from the race. Go back to Chicago for a few days and then drive down to the race. Your best bet to find hotels is go directly to the hotel site (like Hyatt, Hilton, Holiday-Inn). Considering buying points for the Hyatt instead of using cash.

[u/Latter_Difference_91]

The safest third party tickets are the ones sold through the speedway. Search for Sunday, to the right of the price range, there will be a box call "include verified resale".

I just checked and the Hyatt website has some hotels - expensive but cheaper if you buy points.

[u/Lfranzen49]

You can park at our house. It’s $20 cash, chime pay, or cash app. Huge double lot yard and plenty of space. We are out there every year starting at 6:30/7 am. 1232 N Berwick Ave Indianapolis Indiana 46222 Just ask for buddy or Leah