The Indianapolis 500, the race that gave its name to a whole genre of auto racing, is just around the corner. The 500-mile, 200-lap race is held over Memorial Day weekend and draws more than 300,000 spectators each year. If you’re headed to Indianapolis on Memorial Day weekend, there’s a lot more to see in this revitalized city than just the race. At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the track complex where the race is held, there’s a fascinating museum that chronicles the race’s more than 100 year history. Exhibits include winning Indy cars, trophies, racing gear and profiles of the men and women who have competed in the Indianapolis 500. Events surrounding the race include a parade, a concert with Sammy Hagar and Sublime, and a 5K run.
Exploring Indianapolis Away From the Racetrack
Outside of the racetrack, visitors can visit the former homes of President Benjamin Harrison and the poet James Whitcomb Riley; browse the shops and tree-lined streets of the historic Broad Ripple neighborhood; explore the permanent collection at the
Antique Shopping and Dining in Indianapolis
Indianapolis is known for its many varied restaurants. The region is famous for its pork tenderloin sandwiches as well as its abundant fresh produce. Central Indiana is also home to a growing number of brew pubs and ethnic restaurants. You definitely won’t go hungry in Indianapolis. Of course, Indianapolis offers plenty of shopping opportunities, also. There are antique stores in and around Carmel, just north of Indianapolis. as well as the huge selection of quality antique dining room tables, other antique furniture and collectibles at Beauchamp Antiques in Westfield, also north of the city. Beauchamp Antiques has been selling the high quality, 18th, 19th and 20th century antiques for more than 40 years.