Photos by Nicole Clark
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park and the NHRA this week unveiled the new Wally Parks Tower and renovated suites, completing the first phase of a multi-year facility upgrade ahead of the 71st annual Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals. The three-story tower will serve as a centerpiece during drag racing’s most prestigious event, known as The Big Go.
The state-of-the-art building houses race control, a media center, and television broadcast operations. The top floor features three luxury suites and an open-air covered observation deck capable of hosting nearly 500 people.
Constructed on the same footprint as the previous tower, the new facility includes dedicated restrooms, dual staircases, an elevator, and a redesigned winner’s circle backdrop that pays tribute to the track’s historic legacy. Officials said the tower will become a hallmark of both the venue and the sport.
“We were thrilled to unveil the new Wally Parks Tower this week as we continue to move into the next frontier of this great and historic facility,” said Kasey Coler, NHRA vice president of track management and operations. “The new tower will be a hallmark of the facility and the sport for years to come. This is the first step to enable us to better use our property to best serve our fans, race teams and partners.”
In addition to the tower, the eight hospitality suites above the west-side grandstands have undergone a full renovation in time for the U.S. Nationals. These updates are part of a long-term modernization plan aimed at enhancing the overall fan and racer experience at Indianapolis.
NHRA confirmed that phase two of the project will focus on drainage improvements, a key step toward creating more efficient parking and entry access for spectators. The upgrades are designed to improve infrastructure while maintaining the history of a track long considered drag racing’s grandest stage.
The new Wally Parks Tower and upgraded suites mark the most significant investment at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in recent years. Officials emphasized that the improvements align with the NHRA’s long-term vision to elevate The Big Go and ensure the facility remains a world-class destination for motorsports.
