3. The Indianapolis 500

The Buzz -- The beginning of the Indianapolis Speedway dates back to 1909, when the automobile industry built a gravel track to test its newest model cars in front of a crowd of onlookers. The gravel proved to be hazardous, spurring the transformation of the 2.5-mile track from loose gravel to mortared brick, earning it the nickname, "The Brickyard." However, the general public didn't thrill to the safer track's risks and injuries, so on May 30, 1911, the owners held a race where the winner would take home a prize of over $14,000. The competition grabbed the public's attention and drew a large crowd to watch the first of many Indianapolis 500's. The legendary race takes place Memorial Day weekend. N.B. Tickets must be applied for, and priority is typically given to past ticket-holders, so know that scoring a seat is likely a difficult prospect.