The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) is renowned not only for its rich history and thrilling races but also for its sheer size. Often referred to as the "Racing Capital of the World," IMS dwarfs many other famous sporting venues and landmarks, making it a truly unique and impressive site.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway covers an expansive 560 acres, including parking lots, the adjacent golf course, and other facilities. The track itself is a 2.5-mile rectangular oval. The infield alone encompasses 253 acres. To put that into perspective, the infield is large enough to simultaneously accommodate the White House, Vatican City, the Taj Mahal, the Roman Colosseum, Yankee Stadium, Rose Bowl Stadium, Liberty Island, and Churchill Downs. This gives you an idea of just how much space is contained within the track's oval.
Compared to other stadiums, the scale of IMS is remarkable. With a permanent seating capacity of 257,325, it is the highest-capacity sports venue in the world. On race days, the speedway can host approximately 400,000 fans. To illustrate its immensity, all 14 Big Ten college football stadiums could fit inside the IMS infield. This includes stadiums like Michigan Stadium, Penn State's Beaver Stadium, and Ohio Stadium, which are among the largest in college football.
Even when compared to other racing venues, IMS stands out. For example, the combined area of the golf courses hosting the PGA Championship and U.S. Open occupies 461 acres, which is still less than the total area of the IMS property.
The track's dimensions are also noteworthy. The distance from one corner of the track to the opposite corner is approximately one mile. Drivers can complete a lap at speeds exceeding 235 mph, covering the 2.5-mile distance in under 40 seconds. This combination of length and speed creates a challenging and exhilarating experience for drivers and spectators alike.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway's size isn't just about fitting things inside; it's about the experience it offers. The vastness of the venue allows for a wide range of activities and attractions, from racing to concerts to historical exhibits. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum is located on the grounds, showcasing the history of the speedway and its iconic races. Additionally, the Brickyard Crossing Golf Resort offers a unique golfing experience with four holes located within the track's infield.
Constructed in 1909, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has undergone numerous changes and improvements over the years. Originally paved with 3.2 million bricks, earning it the nickname "The Brickyard," the track has since been mostly paved with asphalt. However, a three-foot strip of the original bricks remains at the start/finish line, serving as a reminder of the track's rich history.
