FAQs & SAFETY
Science of Speed kart racing is closed today, Tues., Aug. 11, as our team takes a weekly pit stop. Although kart racing is unavailable, explore STEM-based racing exhibits in the Science of Speed building.
Adult and Junior Kart racing tickets are sold out for Mon., Aug. 10.
Know Before You Go
Safety comes first on every lap. From race requirements to track guidelines, find everything you need before hitting the track.
What is Science of Speed?
Science of Speed is an immersive racing experience at the Science Center featuring an indoor, multi-level electric kart track, cutting-edge racing simulators, high-performance display vehicles, one-of-a-kind racing artifacts, and a racing-themed lounge called the Pit Stop. Whether you’re behind the wheel or exploring the science of speed, it’s designed to deliver an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled experience.
Science of Speed includes two main racing experiences:
- Electric Kart Racing: Race on a 750-foot, multi-story indoor track with high-performance electric karts capable of fast acceleration and speeds up to approximately 45 mph. Real-time lap tracking and positioning technology and dynamic LED lighting ensures an immersive, exciting racing experience.
- Racing Simulators: Test your skills on a dedicated Formula 1 simulator or four interconnected simulators for competitive play.
How much does it cost?
| Kart* Science Center General Admission Required | $14 |
| Wave Italy F1 Simulator* | $8 |
| SimGear Simulator* | $4 |
| Headsock – required to race | $3 |
*All pricing is per person, per race. Kamin Science Center and Carnegie Museums’ gift cards cannot be used at Science of Speed. | |
| Kart* | $24 |
| Wave Italy F1 Simulator* | $15 |
| SimGear Simulator* | $4 |
| Headsock – required to race | $3 |
*All pricing is per person, per race. Kamin Science Center and Carnegie Museums’ gift cards cannot be used at Science of Speed. | |
What are the requirements for racing?
Minimum height: 55”
Maximum weight: 300 lbs
Age: 13+
Minimum height: 50”
Maximum weight: 249 lbs
Age: 10+
Important Update: Following our opening weekend, the minimum age for Junior Kart racing has changed from 7 to 10 years old. All junior racers must also be at least 50 inches tall. Thank you for your understanding as we continue to provide the safest possible racing experience.
What are the requirements to race the simulators?
The WAVE Italy Formula 1 Motion Simulator delivers a realistic Formula 1 racing experience with full-motion technology designed to simulate the speed, forces, and excitement of professional racing.
To participate, visitors must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be at least 58 inches (5 ft)
- Follow all instructions provided by Science Center team members before and during the experience
- Be able to safely enter and exit the simulator without assistance
Racing simulators are immersive, full-body experiences that include movement and physical feedback.
For your safety, the Formula 1 motion simulator is not recommended for visitors who:
- Are pregnant
- Have heart, neck, or back conditions
- Experience motion sickness
- Are under the influence of alcohol or substances
How long does a race or simulator session last?
- Kart races: Approximately six minutes per session (around 12 to 14 laps)
- Simulator sessions: Most simulators last between three and six minutes; exact timing may vary depending on format and will be shared at booking or on-site
What are the hours for Science of Speed?
During the day, a General Admission ticket to the Science Center is required to enter the building, with add-on racing experiences available for purchase inside.
When the Sun goes down, the track heats up! Evening races in adult karts are available Thursday-Saturdays from 5–11 p.m. Must be 18 or older to enter the building during the evening hours.; The Pit Stop lounge is open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. from Sunday through Wednesday and open until 11 p.m. from Thursday through Saturday, with last call at 10:30 p.m.
Do I need to book in advance, or can I walk in?
- Daytime: Walk-in purchases are available at the Science of Speed building with purchase of a General Admission ticket to the Science Center. Advanced booking is not available during daytime hours. Visitors are scheduled on a first come, first-served basis when a race is purchased inside the facility.
- Evening (Thursday–Saturday): All races are walk-in only.
Note: Science of Speed is a cashless venue.
- Daytime: While we recommend buying tickets online to reserve your preferred time and guarantee your spot, walk-in purchases may be available at the Science of Speed building with purchase of a General Admission ticket to the Science Center. Visitors are scheduled on a first come, first-served basis when a race is purchased inside the facility.
- Evening (Thursday–Saturday): We recommend buying tickets online to reserve your preferred time and guarantee your spot. Evening racing is open to visitors 18 or older and does not require Science Center General Admission.
Note: Science of Speed is a cashless venue.
What should I wear or bring for racing?
- Closed-toe shoes are required (no sandals or open-toed footwear).
- Loose clothing or dangling accessories (such as scarves or long necklaces) are not permitted.
- Long hair must be secured and tucked.
- Personal items such as phones, keys, and wallets are not allowed on the track (lockers will be provided).
- All visitors will be provided with a US Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved racing helmet. Visitors are also required to wear a headsock. Visitors may purchase a replacement headsock at any time.
Can I bring my own racing helmet?
Only Science of Speed-issued helmets are authorized for use on our track. All visitors will be issued a DOT-approved helmet before their race.
What are the safety features of Science of Speed?
Safety is a top priority for our staff. With a patented track barrier system and robust track management software that allows staff to stop, start, and adjust kart speeds in real time, visitors can expect a safe yet thrilling indoor racing experience!
Do I need to sign a waiver before racing?
Yes. All participants must complete a waiver 
prior to racing as part of the check-in process. If the driver is under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver on the driver’s behalf.
A parent or guardian must be present for signing of the waiver unless it has been completed beforehand online.
How do I book a party or corporate event?
Science of Speed offers private events and corporate experiences. Visitors can contact our events team to start planning.
Are food and drink available on-site?
(No outside food/drink permitted). The Pit Stop lounge is open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. from Sunday through Wednesday and open until 11 p.m. from Thursday through Saturday, with last call at 10:30 p.m.
Do you have Cash to Credit Kiosks?
What is your refund policy?
All sales are final. Drivers who are removed from a race for aggressive driving and/or for violating any other published rule will not be issued a refund. Please refer to racing requirements, waiver information , and code of conduct for additional details.
What types of racing experiences are available?
Science of Speed includes two main racing experiences:
- Electric Kart Racing: Race on a 750-foot, multi-story indoor track with high-performance electric karts capable of fast acceleration and speeds up to approximately 45 mph.
- Racing Simulators: Test your skills on a dedicated Formula 1 simulator or four interconnected simulators for competitive play.
What makes the track unique?
The Science of Speed track features:
- A multi-story, 750-foot track designed for thrill-seekers that features hairpin turns and elevation changes that test your precision and timing
- High-performance electric karts with rapid acceleration and tight handling
- Real-time lap tracking and positioning technology
- Dynamic LED lighting for an immersive racing experience
Are the racing experiences physically immersive?
- Yes. Both the electric kart racing and racing simulators are designed as full-body experiences that involve motion, acceleration, and physical engagement.
- Our racing experiences include options designed to accommodate different needs, including a hand-controlled kart and tandem kart. Visitors with accessibility questions are encouraged to contact us before visiting so our team can help determine the best option.
What is Science of Speed?
Science of Speed is an immersive racing experience at the Science Center featuring an indoor, multi-level electric kart track, cutting-edge racing simulators, high-performance display vehicles, one-of-a-kind racing artifacts, and a racing-themed lounge called the Pit Stop. Whether you’re behind the wheel or exploring the science of speed, it’s designed to deliver an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled experience.
Science of Speed includes two main racing experiences:
- Electric Kart Racing: Race on a 750-foot, multi-story indoor track with high-performance electric karts capable of fast acceleration and speeds up to approximately 45 mph. Real-time lap tracking and positioning technology and dynamic LED lighting ensures an immersive, exciting racing experience.
- Racing Simulators: Test your skills on a dedicated Formula 1 simulator or four interconnected simulators for competitive play.
How long does a race or simulator session last?
- Kart races: Approximately six minutes per session (around 12 to 14 laps)
- Simulator sessions: Most simulators last between three and six minutes; exact timing may vary depending on format and will be shared at booking or on-site
What are the hours for Science of Speed?
- Science of Speed is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. A General Admission ticket is required to enter the building, with add-on racing experiences available for purchase inside.
- When the Sun goes down, the track heats up! Adults-only evening races are Thursday-Saturdays from 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Must be 18 or older. General Admission not required.
The Pit Stop lounge is open from 11 a.m.–11 p.m., with last call at 10:30 p.m.
Do I need to book in advance, or can I walk in?
- Daytime: Walk-in purchases are available at the Science of Speed building with purchase of a General Admission ticket to the Science Center. Advanced booking is not available during daytime hours. Visitors are scheduled on a first come, first-served basis when a race is purchased inside the facility.
- Evening (Thursday–Saturday): Walk-in purchases are available. Advance booking is recommended (online booking coming soon).
Note: Science of Speed is a cashless venue.
What are the requirements for racing?
For safety, all racers must meet the following requirements:
Minimum height: 55” (4.5 ft)
Maximum weight: 300 lbs
Age: 13+
Minimum height: 48” (4 ft)
Maximum weight: 249 lbs
Age: 7+
F1 Simulator:
Minimum height: 58” (5 ft)
Age: 16+
Due to safety considerations, adult and junior karts may not race together. All racers must attend a brief safety training prior to racing and follow staff instructions at all times.
IMPORTANT: Meeting the above requirements is not a guarantee you’ll be able to race our karts. Drivers will be measured and evaluated on-site and must be able to safely operate all elements of the kart. Final approval will be at management’s discretion.
What should I wear or bring for racing?
- Closed-toe shoes are required (no sandals or open-toed footwear).
- Loose clothing or dangling accessories (such as scarves or long necklaces) are not permitted.
- Long hair must be secured and tucked.
- Personal items such as phones, keys, and wallets are not allowed on the track (lockers will be provided).
- All visitors will be provided with a US Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved racing helmet. Customers will be required to make a one-time purchase of a headsock ($3) during their initial visit, which may be brought back for future races! Visitors may purchase a replacement headsock at any time.
Can I bring my own racing helmet?
Only Science of Speed-issued helmets are authorized for use on our track. All visitors will be issued a DOT-approved helmet before their race.
What are the safety features of Science of Speed?
Safety is a top priority for our staff. With a patented track barrier system and robust track management software that allows staff to stop, start, and adjust kart speeds in real time, visitors can expect a safe yet thrilling indoor racing experience!
Do I need to sign a waiver before racing?
Yes. All participants must complete a waiver prior to racing as part of the check-in process. If the driver is under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver on the driver’s behalf.
A parent or guardian must be present for signing of the waiver unless it has been completed beforehand online.
How do I book a group, party, or corporate event?
Science of Speed offers group packages, private events, and corporate experiences. More information will be available soon — visitors can contact our events team to start planning.
Are food and drink available on-site?
(No outside food/drink permitted). The Pit Stop is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with last call at 10:30 p.m.
What is your refund policy?
All sales are final. Drivers who are removed from a race for aggressive driving and/or for violating any other published rule will not be issued a refund. Please refer to the Safety Rules (link) and the Carnegie Code of Conduct (link) for additional details.