INDYCAR is coming to DC this summer! Heading to the National Mall to catch the action? SpotHero is here with everything you need to know for a seamless parking experience.
Overview
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is an IndyCar street race. It will take place August 22–23, 2026, in Washington, D.C., as part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The race will take place on a temporary street circuit built around the National Mall, featuring a roughly 1.7-mile, multi-turn layout that runs past iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian museums. You can find a course map here.
High-speed open-wheel IndyCar vehicles are expected to reach speeds approaching 190 mph on sections like Pennsylvania Avenue, making it one of the most unique and high-profile street races ever held in the U.S.
Tickets and Admission
General admission ticket prices for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix have not been announced, but it is expected that they will be free and open to the public, with large viewing areas set up throughout the National Mall and surrounding streets. Seating in the champions club is available for a feeYou can sign up for alerts and view ticket availability on the event website.
Getting Around During the Freedom 250 Grand Prix
Road closures and security measures will be implemented around the National Mall and surrounding downtown streets in the week leading up to race weekend. Heightened security and road closures will remain in effect for the week following the race to allow crews to remove barriers and special equipment. You can stay on top of road closures and delays by visiting our post on traffic monitoring in DC.
With hundreds of thousands of attendees expected, significant traffic congestion and transit disruptions are likely. Public transportation and walking are expected to be the most efficient ways to access the event area.
Parking for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix
Parking near the National Mall will be extremely limited due to closures and event operations. Visitors should plan ahead, consider parking outside the immediate area, and allow extra time for travel.
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Have fun and Happy Parking!