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Everything you need to know for the Indy 500

Posted at 11:23 PM, May 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-29 03:57:39-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- You're going to the Indy 500 this weekend – and you think you know it all. But just in case … we've got the end-all, be-all guide to race weekend.

FORECAST | Before you leave for the track, check our up-to-the-minute weather outlook

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First off: Parking. It's going to be tough. If you don't believe us, here's what IMS President Doug Boles had to say about it: "Be early, plan where you're trying to go and have a lot of patience."

IMS | Be prepared, be patient, get to the track early on Sunday

That being said, you've still got to get there – and find someplace for your car when you do.

If you're looking for the best routes to and from the track, look no further than our Race Day Traffic Guide. If you don't want to drive, consider joining the inaugural "Bike to the 500."

As for parking, click the map below for everything you need to know:

One you've made it to the gates, you can expect a security check. One big thing to know? Your cooler, hard or soft, can't be larger than 18" by 14" by 14". So plan accordingly.

Bringing a cooler to the Indy 500? Here's how to pack it perfectly!

Click the images below to see what you can, and can't bring to the track, or find a full list here:

If you've got some time to kill once you're inside IMS, consider checking off our 6 Things to See at the 100th Running of the Indy 500 list.

All that said, if you just want to watch the race at home – we've got you covered, too. Find our guide to couch-side viewing right here.

While you're here, check out any of our Road to 100 coverage you may have missed below:

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