Pittsburgh is about to get a new place to settle the eternal question of who in the friend group is fastest, with the Kamin Science Center opening its Science of Speed exhibit this Saturday. The former SportsWorks space is being transformed into a multi-level indoor racing experience where families can learn about motorsports by climbing into electric go-karts themselves.
The all-electric track runs up and down three stories, reaches speeds of up to 40 mph and can send racers through 10 to 14 laps in a six-minute session, according to CBS Pittsburgh. Daytime operations run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with racing available as an add-on to regular Kamin Science Center admission.
Daytime Family Racing Gives Way To Adult Nights
During the day, the kart experience is open to anyone at least 7 years old and 4 feet tall, with races priced at $14. The Kamin Science Center says adult and junior races are separated, and drivers must be able to safely reach and operate the kart controls.
After 5 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, Science of Speed shifts into an adults-only racing session for guests 18 and older. Night races cost $24 each, and a racing-themed lounge called The Pit Stop will serve food and drinks while visitors take a breather between laps, according to a report by WPXI.
Motorsports Exhibit Goes Beyond The Track
Science of Speed is not just a karting venue with a few science posters taped to the wall. The exhibit includes displays on vehicle design, aerodynamics and engine technology, along with a motorcycle racing suit equipped with airbags and an opened-up Audi R8 engine, CBS Pittsburgh reports.
Visitors can also try five racing simulators, including a Wave Italy Formula One motion simulator described as the only one of its kind in Western Pennsylvania. The center's official exhibit information also highlights real-time lap tracking, leaderboard competition, hairpin turns and elevation changes on the track.
The new attraction is part of a broader overhaul at the museum, which took the Kamin Science Center name after a $65 million donation from Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin. Hoodline previously reported on the renaming and planned upgrades, which are now arriving with considerably more tire squeal.
