Headed to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the Indy 500 Sunday? Be a smart fan with our 13 tips!
The Indianapolis 500 always means big crowds, but this year, they'll be bigger than ever with the race a sell-out. That means if you're headed there today, it's best to plan ahead. Expect more traffic, a tougher time finding parking, longer lines and much tighter security.
IMS officials advise fans to leave home two hours earlier than normal to get the track.
Also, be mindful of the weather. It's expected to be hot and humid with scattered showers possible.
Here are 13 ways tips for race day.
1. Don't be a race geek. Stay cool and dry. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing such as a T-shirt, shorts, running/walking shoes, hat, sunglasses and most importantly, sun block. Prepare for rain by bringing a raincoat or poncho. (Umbrellas are allowed as long as they don't block anyone's view.)
2. Prepare for life in the slow lane. Traffic always moves slowly on race morning, but with this year's heavy volume, lines will move slower yet. Expect delays and back-ups getting to the track. Better yet, sign up for a park and ride shuttle. Pick-up locations include the airport and several downtown stops. If you live close enough, another option is hopping on your bicycle and riding to the track. Be sure to listen to WTHR's live stream of race day morning coverage on your way in!
3. Parking alert - IMS lots are sold out. You'll still find lawn parking on nearby neighboring streets and private lots, but expect to pay cash and expect to walk.
4. Packing it in - If you're bringing food, drinks and ice, make sure you can fit it all in backpacks and coolers no larger than 18x14x14 inches. Drinks must be in plastic or aluminum containers, as glass is NOT allowed in the Speedway. And no wagons or carts. It's all carry-in.
IMS in Race mode Friday - expect tighter security at gates & credentialed parking only in infield #wthr
— Mary Milz (@MaryWTHR) May 26, 2016
5. Crowd Control - Security personnel will be checking all bags and coolers at each of the 24 gates. While they'll have 215 lanes, it could be slow going. If you don't want to miss the start of the race, don't chance it. Give yourself plenty of time to get thru security.
6. Big No No's - Again, no jumbo coolers or glass of any kind. Also no firearms, fireworks, drones, selfie sticks and animals.
7. Stay Cool - Start hydrating early (with water) and watch the alcohol. Heat-related illness will be a big concern this weekend. If you feel symptoms coming, have someone help you to a first aid station or medic.
8. Play it safe - Leave any valuables at home and beware of pickpockets. Clip keys and IDs on your lanyard, and be careful where you put money and credit cards. Bag the big purse.
9. Eating out - given the large crowds, IMS plans to have 30% more vendors than past recent race days. This year for the first time, they're also using "hawkers" - vendors who walk the stands yelling, "Burgers! Beer! Hot dogs!"
10. Know where to go - Check maps and schedules for special pre-race events. You'll be covering a lot of ground just getting inside IMS, no need to tire yourself out before the green flag.
11. Keep close tabs on everyone - If your cellphone dies or service is spotty, have a back-up plan for finding people.
12. Don't forget the TP! - Though they've added more porta-potties to accommodate the over-flow crowd, it never hurts to stash some extra tissue away. Better safe than sorry:)
13. Get me outta here! - It's life in the slow lane in reverse. While fans arrive at IMS over several hours, they all want to leave at once. Can you say major gridlock? Sit back, play a game, read a book, take a nap...just don't expect a quick exit. Shuttles run for two hours after the checkered flag.
Download the WTHR app to receive push alerts about traffic and weather throughout Indy 500 weekend.
