Educational Programs
Rendering is conceptual only. When the Museum opens, the exhibits and objects on display might be different than what is represented in the concept render.
a Focus on steam learning
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is offering engaging, authentic learning experiences that connect guests to the world of racing.
The new STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) classroom – the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation Innovation Workshop – allows a space for dedicated programming where learners of all ages can explore the key elements behind successful race cars and racing teams while empowering students with the technical knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the racing industry.
Daily Programming (included with general admission)
Aerodynamics Wall
Location: Innovation Workshop
Learn how water and air interact with objects of different shapes. What shapes create more or less resistance? How can that make a race car more or less successful?
Gravity Track
Location: Innovation Workshop
Conduct experiments to try to build the fastest race car on the track. Change the shape, weight distribution, wheel size, or track type to create the car with the fastest time.
Construction Structure STEM Challenges
Location: Innovation Workshop
Use the tools provided to recreate iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway structures and emblems. Learn about the history, origin, and impact of these symbols while having fun building them.
Paid Programming Calendar
Field Trip Information
Explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum with your class and interact with our engaging and educational exhibits, plus enjoy self-guided activities in the Innovation Workshop (for specific activities, please view the Field Trip Add-Ons).
Field trips are reserved for K-12 schools, homeschool groups, or youth organizations (Girl/Boy Scouts, school clubs) of 15 or more students.
Cost: $8/student
Title 1 Schools: $2/student
Teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers are free at an 8:1 ratio.
Hours: Monday through Friday
March – October: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
November – February: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Group Limits:
April – May: 150
All other months: 200
Field Trip Add-Ons
Field Trip Plus: $2/student
Tour our facilities and enjoy a lesson or activity led by Museum staff in the Innovation Workshop.
STEM/Design Challenge: $3/student
Tour our facilities and participate in a guided STEM or design-based challenge.
Custom Plan: $5/student
Work with our Director of Education to customize an experience for your students.
Track Tours: View tour pricing
For more information, please contact Jake Apollos, Director of Education, at japollos@imsmuseum.org or 463.244.2956.
Rules
Each group needs one (1) chaperone per eight (8) students. Chaperones must stay with the students.
Enjoy our interactives, but please don’t touch the cars or artifacts unless invited.
Please keep food and drinks out of the exhibit areas.
Be mindful and respectful of other visitors.
Help us protect the Museum by staying supervised and avoiding disruptive behavior.
Request a field trip
Meet the director
Jacob Apollos, Director of Education
Our Director of Education brings over 15 years of teaching and administrative experience across all grade levels, paired with a passion for STEAM education. At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, he designs unique, hands-on programs that go beyond traditional classroom learning, utilizing tools and experiences only available at this world-class facility—located on the largest sports stadium in the world.
With a focus on the rich history and stories of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, programs emphasize STEAM principles and can be tailored to other areas based on educators’ needs. While many experiences are crafted for K-12 students, learners of all ages will benefit from the authentic, engaging activities we offer. Contact him at japollos@imsmuseum.org or 463.244.2956.
frequently asked questions
How many chaperones do I need?
We require a minimum of one (1) adult chaperone for every eight (8) students. Chaperones must be at least 18 years old and cannot be current K-12 students.
How large of a group can I bring?
Group size limits depend on the time of year. During the Indianapolis 500 season (from March – May), we ask that groups be limited to 150 visitors at a time. During the rest of the year, we can accommodate up to 200 visitors per group.
What do I do if my group exceeds the maximum number of visitors?
If your group is larger than our capacity, we recommend scheduling additional experiences in the nearby area to create a rotation scheduled for students. This approach offers students a variety of enriching experiences while still including a visit to the Museum. Contact the Director of Education if you would like assistance planning a trip of this nature.
Can current IMS Museum members use their membership to get into the Museum?
Yes, current members can use their membership to access the Museum. Members will need to check in separately at the front desk as usual but are welcome to join their group after check-in.
How do I pay for a field trip?
Field trip payments will be due upon arrival on the day of your visit. Payments can be made via cash, check, or credit card.
Where do students enter?
Coming soon.
Where do buses pick up and drop off our group?
Coming soon.
Can buses park at the Museum?
Yes, buses can park at the Museum. However, parking may be limited to no more than 15 total buses at a time.
Where can we eat lunch?
Due to limited space inside the Museum, we cannot accommodate groups larger than 40 students for indoor dining.
Groups are welcome to eat on their buses or on the outdoor grounds surrounding the Museum. We kindly ask that you respect the landscaping, statues, fountains, and other guests while using these areas.
Do my students/chaperones need to bring money?
Students and adult chaperones do not need money for admission to the Museum. However, they will need money if they wish to purchase items from the gift shop or snacks from the “Grab-n-Go” snack bar located in the Track Tour Lounge on the lower level.
Do you offer guided tours?
Yes, we offer guided tours of the track for an additional fee. You can schedule a “Kiss the Bricks” tour of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (subject to availability) through our Ticketing & Reservations team at tours@imsmuseum.org.
Our plans have changed, what do I need to do?
To cancel or reschedule your field trip, please call 463.244.2688 or email us at tours@imsmuseum.org.
If I have questions about program options or logistics, who can I contact?
For questions about program options or day-of-visit logistics, please contact the Director of Education at 463.244.2956 or email japollos@imsmuseum.org.