7 Things to Do when You Attend the Indy 500

The Indianapolis 500 is known as "the greatest spectacle in racing," and it's a well-earned title. Upwards of a half million people will attend the race, packed into stands around the two-and-a-half mile track. For some people, attending the Indy 500 in person is a once in a lifetime experience, so you'll want to make the most of your weekend in the city called the Crossroads of America.

Here are seven things to add to your vacation plans if you are going to attend the 500-mile race this year.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum

Although the museum features displays of Indy racing cars through the years - including more than 30 race-winning vehicles - there's much more than IRL history on display here. The museum includes one of the largest collections of antique, classic, and racing cars in the world. Plus, you get to see the unique Borg Warner Trophy, presented to the Indy 500 winner, which includes the raised, engraved face of each champion driver.

IPL 500 Festival Parade

More than 300,000 people each year line the two-mile parade route on the day before the race. They're there to see each of the drivers, the massive floats, giant balloons, the marching bands and more. The parade is part of the 500 Festival, a month-long, city-wide celebration of the race and its history.

NCAA Hall of Champions

Recently re-opened after extensive renovations following a fire, the two-story Hall honors great college student-athletes with 23 sport-specific displays, a high-definition theater, interactive exhibits, and the Hall of Honor - in which recipients of the NCAA's highest accolade are recognized. The Hall is closed on Mondays.

Party on Georgetown Road

The night before the race, the celebration is in full force on Georgetown Road, just outside the Speedway itself. Part carnival, part party, it's a wild night that offers the best people-watching of the entire month. Be aware, though, things can get a little raucous as the night goes on. If you must bring the kids, visit early.

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art

If the party scene is not your speed - and even if it is - this museum will fascinate you. It may seem odd to find someplace so clearly influenced by the art and culture of the American Southwest here at the very heart of the country. But the collection - with an emphasis on the Taos Society of Artists of New Mexico - is impressive, and the interactive stagecoach exhibit is fun for the whole family.

The Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial

The race is traditionally run on Memorial Day weekend, so what better way to honor the holiday - and those it commemorates - than a visit to this impressive site. On a one-acre parcel in White River State Park downtown, 27 curved glass panels include the names of each of the 3,459 recipients of the nation's highest military honor. Try to be there at sunset, when an inspirational recording about the recipients and their stories is played throughout the plaza.

Bring a cooler

Unlike almost any other major sporting event in America, you can bring your own food and beverages into the Speedway on the day of the race. Beware of the long hike you'll likely have to make from wherever you park your car, however. The half million fans arrive in an awful lot of cars! If you aren't inclined to lug a cooler long-distance, don't worry. Concession prices inside the Speedway are comparatively inexpensive compared to other professional sports venues, and the food and beverage booths are manned by volunteers, as a portion of the proceeds benefit local charities.