In July 2023, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum announced the public phase of a $89 million capital campaign – The Stories Behind the Spectacle – to fund a complete transformation of the Museum, its first significant renovation in nearly 40 years.
Remaining within our current footprint, the Museum will be reconfigured to improve the guest experience. A more intuitive layout will offer an orientation to the history of the
Speedway and an immersive experience recreating some of our favorite Indianapolis 500 traditions. Improved air and humidity control, museum-grade storage systems, and controlled lighting will preserve our vehicles and artifacts for years to come.
{{ Non-profit name }} is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization, and your donation is tax deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. Please keep your receipt as your official record. We'll email it to you upon successful completion of your donation.
Ways to Support
Support of The Stories Behind the Spectacle Campaign can be made in a variety of ways. Whether you wish to make a one-time donation, a pledge commitment, or a legacy gift, your contributions are vital our success.
Giving Levels recognized on the permanent donor wall as you enter the Museum are: $5 Million and above $1 Million - $4,999,999 $500,000 - $999,999 $100,000 - $499,999 $50,000 - $99,999 $10,000 - $49,999 Gifts under $10,000 will be recognized on digital donor board.
To learn more about your options of giving, please contact Bridget Sutton, Director of Administration and Capital Campaign, at bsutton@imsmuseum.org.
Frequently asked questions
Is my donation secure?
Yes. Your security and privacy is our highest priority. We use industry-standard SSL technology to keep your information safe and secure.
Do I get a receipt?
Yes, we’ll send a receipt to the email address you provide when donating. You will also receive an acknowledge letter in the mail shortly after your gift is received.
Do you sell or share my contact information?
No. We do not sell, trade, or share your personal information with anyone. We also do not send mailings on behalf of other organizations. We will only share personal information if you give us specific permission to do so.
Where can I mail a donation?
Donations can be mailed to:
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Attn: Capital Campaign
PO Box 24518
Indianapolis, IN 46224-0518
How much money will the renovation cost?
The re-imagining of the Museum will cost approximately $89 million. $64 Million is earmarked for the complete transformation of the interior of the IMS Museum building. The second phase of the project will be a new $15 million automobile and equipment restoration facility. The IMS Museum will also dedicate $10 million toward the creation of an endowment, allowing the Museum to fulfill its mission of celebrating and preserving the history behind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500.
What’s the timing for the Museum renovation?
Construction will begin in October 2023, with the closing of the basement area. The Museum will close completely in November 2023 and will be closed until April 2025.
Why does the Museum have to completely shut down for the renovation?
The Museum must undergo a comprehensive infrastructure and technology renovation throughout the entire building to allow us to bring unique, immersive experiences to our visitors. Closing the entire Museum will allow us to complete the renovation more quickly.
Where will we be able to see racing memorabilia while the Museum is closed?
Our hope is that residents and visitors will be able to see IMS Museum displays at area cultural institutions and visitor destinations. We will post more information on our website and social media channels as soon as it is available.
Will track tours still be offered while the Museum is closed?
Yes, visitors will still be able to take track tours around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during our closure. We will update our website with more information on tour offerings very soon.
What will Museum members do with their memberships while the Museum is closed?
Access to the Museum is just one of the many benefits you receive as a Museum member. Favorite programs such as the Speaker Series and Fuel up Fridays will continue, just in different locations throughout the city. You can still use your discounted tours and member discounts at the IMS retail shop or IMS photo shop.
Membership support will allow us to continue offering these programs and events as well as plan exciting new activities in the renovated Museum.
When will the Museum re-open?
We anticipate reopening in April 2025.
Where can I find more information about the IMS Museum during construction?
Visit storiesbehindthespectacle.com and follow all of our social channels (@imsmuseum) to keep up on the latest news.
