I'm going to the Indy 500 next year, and need advice??

Q: Money is not a concern but I don't want to break the bank either. Can anyone give advice/ share experience as to best place to sit (maybe a couple options), hotels, etc.? Thanks

A: Couple of suggestions to consider: 1. You can buy the most expensive and best seat in the house, and you will *not* be able to see the entire race track. The track is just too big, and too full in the infield (golf course holes, stands, trees, viewing mounds, museum, etc.) 2. If you're wanting to go for the atmosphere more than the racing, you can purchase a $20 Gen. Admission ticket to the infield. Viewing mounds are good, though it does get difficult to follow who's winning, and you don't have true access to video boards (bad angles). Otherwise, it's more of a party atmosphere - not that *that's* a bad thing. 3. Regarding grandstands: For the race, I've been in the North Vista (between Turns 3 & 4), Stand G (Turn 2 - very underrated stand), and now the S.W. Vista (Turn 1). If I were to recommend a stand now for a first-time visitor, I think I would almost suggest going back in Turn 2, so Stand G or the S.E. Vista. The primary reason is that this year, IMS management removed the Inside Turn One stands to prepare for this year's MotoGP (motorcycle race) in September. By doing this, it opened that corner up BIG TIME for viewing. It's almost a new look to a 100-yr-old-track. By sitting somewhere in Turn 2, you should now get most (if not all) of Turn 1, all of the South Chute, all of Turn 2, and most (if not all) of the backstretch, plus you have 2-3 video boards in front. 4. In my opinion, corners are better than straights for raw racing action (passing, close calls, contact, wallbangers). However, if you enjoy teamwork, there's no better place than along the frontstretch to see teams go to work in the pits. Choreography at its finest. 5. Before leaving after the race, go to the infield, and check out the museum. Not only is it a great walkthrough of history, it'll take you a good 45-90 minutes to go through in its entirity, and by then, most of the crowds will have dispersed, and traffic may not be as bad. I get a thrill going through there every time - you and your son will step back in time/history. Worth the $3 entry fee - best bargain in auto racing! 6. Hotels? Get them reserved NOW. I think the earlier, the better. Just be ready for traffic, and a TON of it, so get there REAL early. Also start thinking about the length of time you'll be here. Carb Day is on Friday (last practice, pit stop competition, Firestone Indy Lights 40-lap race, & free concert (this year = Stone Temple Pilots)) for $10, Drivers Meeting is Saturday (as is parade), and Sunday is the race. Hope this helps

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