Getting tickets to the big NASCAR races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway can be a challenge, especially the crown jewel Brickyard 400. As one of the largest sporting venues in the world, with over 250,000 seats, tickets sell out quickly. Planning ahead and understanding the different ticket options is key to securing seats at the iconic track.
When do Indianapolis Motor Speedway tickets go on sale?
Tickets for the Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400 typically go on sale in October or November of the year prior to the race. They are offered through the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website, ticket brokers, and travel package providers. Due to high demand, it’s recommended to purchase as early as possible once tickets become available.
Types of Indianapolis Motor Speedway tickets
There are several ticket options available for races at IMS:
- General admission – Allows access to the infield and mound seating areas. Does not reserve a specific seat.
- Grandstand seating – Reserved seats located in one of the grandstand sections along the track.
- Suite tickets – Upscale experience with premium views, indoor seating, concessions, and more.
- Pit passes – Grants access to pit road and the garage area.
Where to buy Brickyard 400 tickets
Here are some of the main options for purchasing Indianapolis NASCAR race tickets:
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway – Buy directly from the track’s website once tickets go on sale. Often the best availability.
- Ticket brokers – Third party sellers that offer tickets for resale, often at marked up prices.
- Travel packages – Bundles that include race tickets along with hotel accommodations and other features.
- StubHub/SeatGeek – Resale sites with tickets being sold by other fans.
Tips for getting the best ticket prices
To help get affordable tickets, here are some key tips:
- Buy early – Prices typically increase as the race approaches and inventory shrinks.
- Avoid packaged deals – Individual tickets are usually cheaper than bundled travel packages.
- Consider general admission – The cheapest way to get in the door and still experience the excitement.
- Look into season passes – Provides tickets to multiple events throughout the year, often at a discount.
- Check resale sites – Fans often resell extra tickets at or below face value as race day nears.
Where are the best seats?
The optimal seats depend on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best grandstands at Indianapolis Motor Speedway:
| Section | Features |
|---|---|
| Frontstretch | Very close to the start/finish line and victory lane. Most expensive tickets. |
| Paddock | View of the pit crews working on cars as they come in and out of the pits. |
| Turn 1 | See the cars make their first turn at the start of the race. |
| Turn 4 | Prime spot for pre-race festivities and seeing cars accelerate towards the finish. |
The higher up you can get, the better the views. But any seat will provide great sights of the cars zooming around the 2.5 mile oval.
Alternative ways to experience the Brickyard 400
If you can’t get race tickets, here are a couple other ways to take in the excitement:
- Attend Carb Day – The Friday before the race has practice laps and an Indy Lights race.
- Watch qualifications – The speed trials to set the starting grid are held the weekend before.
- Go to the Snake Pit concert – A music festival inside turn 3 during the race.
- Visit the museum – Learn about the track’s history and see race cars up close.
Getting to the track
Indianapolis Motor Speedway is located in Speedway, Indiana, about 6 miles from downtown Indianapolis.
Here are some options for getting there on race day:
- Parking lots – Available at the track and surrounding areas, starting around $20-$40.
- Rideshares – Convenient but can involve surge pricing. Have a pickup spot outside the track planned.
- Shuttles – Free shuttles run from downtown hotels and hotspots.
- Public transit – The IndyGo bus routes drop off near the speedway.
- Golf cart taxis – Offer rides around the track area for approximately $10.
Plan to arrive early, as the area gets congested close to race time. Gates open around 6 or 7am for the Brickyard 400.
Conclusion
The Brickyard 400 brings fast cars and an electric atmosphere to the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. While tickets sell out quickly, there are ways to get seats for a great price. Plan ahead, be flexible on seating location, and use all available purchasing avenues. With the right approach, you can experience NASCAR’s top series at one of racing’s most legendary tracks.
