IMS selling infield glamping spots at Indy 500

It's been used for a lot of things. But in the long and colorful history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway infield, it has never been used for this.

For the first time, Indianapolis 500 fans will be able to "glamp" in the IMS infield during race weekend.

Unfamiliar to glamping? It stands for glamorous camping and is a trend popping up nationwide for people who want to enjoy the the basics of camping without getting down and dirty.

And although there is debate as to whether such luxury should be called camping, it's happening. And not just at glitzy resorts with 5-star campside service but at local campgrounds where RVs are getting bigger and fancier — and now, at IMS.

The Speedway is offering various glamping packages — ranging from $650 to $1,100 — for fans. They include luxuries like a tent with a tarp floor and windows, queen-sized beds, a private shower area, electronics hookup and access to a glamping lounge.

All the packages include four nights and five days. The only requirement: fans who want to glamp must have tickets to Coors Light Carb Day on May 23, Legends Day on May 24 and the 500 race on May 25.

IMS is touting the experience this way: "There's no need to pitch a tent when you're glamping, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build. Glamping is a way to experience the great outdoors without roughing it."

That's for sure. Just consider the queen package being offered for $1,100.

The two-person package includes a large weather-proof tent with windows and a tarp floor on a minimum 10- by 15-foot site. It includes a queen-size bed with sheets, blankets and pillows, a bedside table and a table with two chairs. Guests get an infield parking pass, preferred check-in location and power source for personal electronics. There is a private shower area, private restroom facilities, a padlock with key and access to cellphone charging stations, ice sales and water refill.

Other packages offer similar amenities and include the twin package for $950; the four-cot package for $900; and the two-cot package for $650.

Check-in time to glamp is after 8 a.m. May 22, and check-out time is before 11 a.m. May 26.

For more info or to buy a package, visit indy500snakepit.com/index.php/glamping.

Call Star reporter Dana Hunsinger Benbow at (317) 444-6012. Follow her on Twitter: @danabenbow.