First look: Kamin Science Center's indoor go-karts
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The Kamin Science Center is debuting indoor go-karts on Saturday, and Axios Pittsburgh got behind the wheel for a test drive.
The intrigue: The North Shore science center updated its former Sports 360 building into the new 21,000-square-foot Science of Speed complex complete with an 800-foot kart track spanning three levels, a Formula 1 racing simulator, interactive racing exhibits, and a full bar and cafe.
Zoom in: Karts squeal and slide across bends and top out at 40 mph, but your speed limit depends on when you race.
- There are no speed restrictions during the evening hours, which are exclusive to those 18 and over.
- Daytime racers can also reach full speed, but staff will adjust maximum speeds on the fly depending on skill level.
- Junior karts, which are smaller, top out at about 75% and race separately, per the science center.
Zoom out: Adult karts are for racers 13 and over and 4'6" and taller; junior karts are for those age 7-12 and over 4 feet tall.
- Drivers must fill out waivers, wear head socks and helmets, and empty their pockets before driving.
- Races take about six minutes across 10-14 laps.
- Learn more here.
What they're saying: "It goes faster than you think. You can get some speed on these things," said Mayor Corey O'Connor, who took the first ride of the day.
- For Axios Pittsburgh, Ryan's and Chrissy's fastest laps were just over 28 seconds, some of the fastest speeds of the day.
- We both raced faster than the mayor, so we're in charge now.
Pro tip: Don't be afraid to tap on your brake. It can help you take turns tighter and even move into controlled slides.
Check out more racing on our Instagram page.
Cost: Daytime hours (10am-5pm daily) cost $14 per race, plus science center admission ($15-$25).
- Evening races (5-11pm Thursday-Saturday) cost $24 and don't require science center admission.
State of play: Race simulators also provide fun and some intensity without getting on the track.
- The facility houses a Wave Italy F1 Simulator ($8 daytime, $15 evening) — one of the only in Western Pennsylvania — which is designed to replicate the physical sensations of driving 235 mph.
- There are also SimGear simulators ($4), which are similar to race car arcade games but harder, and up to four friends can race each other.
Drink up: The Pit Stop Lounge offers a full bar with racing-themed cocktails, appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches, and more.
- Drinking and karting is not allowed, so enjoy your beverage after your race.
If you go: One Allegheny Ave., North Shore
What's next: The Science of Speed opens Saturday at 10am. Pittsburgh sports mascots will be present and prizes will be awarded, like race-related LEGO sets.