Indy 500 at The Indianapolis Motor Speedway - May 29, 2011 - Insiders Guide to Downtown Indianapolis

Are you coming to Indy this year for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” otherwise known as the Indianapolis 500?

As you may already know, the Indianapolis 500 is the world’s most famous auto race. This year the famous race takes place on May 29, 2011. Of course, there are a number of events leading up to Race Day and the events commence on Saturday, May 7, 2011 at the Centennial Era Balloon Festival.

The prestiguious Indy 500 auto race has taken place since 1911 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (except for 1917-18 and 1942-45 during the USA's participation in world wars).

The Indy 500 covers 500 miles, 200 laps on the famous 2.5-mile oval. The “500” is the world’s largest single-day spectator sporting event.

Here are some important details about this year's event:

If you are coming for the entire event or even for part of it, then you will want to find a hotel room Indianapolis that will allow for extended stay options. The Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Downtown has hotel reservations Indianapolis ready to go for the entire event because the Hilton is preferred hotel provider of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Check out this great YouTube video that will get you in the mood for this year's event:

Are you coming to the event this year? Did you come last year as well? What would you recommend as far as what to bring and what to expect? Please share your thoughts and comments with fellow readers by leaving a comment below.