Vroom! Vroom! Do you have little ones who love race cars? With the Formula 1 Race Weekend coming up at Circuit of the Americas on October 23 – 25, excitement is brewing among racing fans in Austin. If your kids have a need for speed, there are several places in the area where they can feel like junior race car drivers. Here’s our round-up of where to take your young race car fans in Austin.
–> Circuit of the Americas Tours
Did you know you can take a guided tour of Austin’s world-class racing destination? You can take a shuttle or walking tour that includes stops at the 25-story Observation Tower and COTA’s 3.4-mile racetrack. Tours are available to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays — except big event days. Shuttle tours are $25 or $18.50 for seniors/military/kids, and walking tours are $15 per person or $12.50 for seniors/military/kids. Click here for more info about taking a tour.
–> Races 2U
Have you ever tried digital slot car racing? Kids can guide small remote controlled cars on a replica of the F1 track at the Anderson Mill location, or Races2U can bring their track to set up for your birthday party or other events. With digital slot car racing, multiple cars can compete on a single track. A computer keeps track of your laps and times, and displays who is winning in real time. With lane changes, overtaking, and pit stops, real racing strategy and skill are involved. Difficulty levels are programmable so a child can enjoy it and an adult can still be challenged! During parties, participants who are not driving during a particular race can get involved as “pit crew”, putting cars back together and back on track. For more info, please visit the Races 2U website.
–> Austin’s Park ‘n’ Pizza
This fun amusement park for kids in Pflugerville, TX includes plenty of entertainment options, including a 3 go-kart tracks for all ages and sizes:
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Austin’s Great Safari Race is an adventure for the youngest drivers. (Drivers Height Minimum Requirement 36″ Tall; Drivers Height Maximum Requirement Under 44″ Tall)
- Rookie Karts are for the drivers who are almost ready for the big leagues. They are on the big track with side-by-side racing: pedal to the metal navigating the winding curves. (Drivers Height Minimum Requirement 44″ Tall; Drivers Height Maximum Requirement Under 58″ Tall)
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Speedway Go-Karts let you race against the clock or your friends. Enjoy spirited side-by-side racing on the long stretches and wide curves. (Drivers Height Requirement 58′ Tall; Passengers Height Requirements 40″ Tall; All passengers must be driven by someone 18 years or older)
For more info, please visit Austin’s Park ‘n’ Pizza’s website.
–> K1 Speed
K1 Speed offers an indoor karting experience in North Austin for junior racers who are a minimum of 4ft (48″) tall. They offer European-style 20hp electric karts that make racing with friends and family a thrill. These indoor kart tracks are among the largest in the nation. When not racing, visitors can browse through their collection of racing memorabilia, including race suits from famous drivers, race cars, autographed paraphernalia. To learn more about pricing and group outings, please visit the K1 Speed website.
–> Austin Rock & Roll Car Museum
Austin’s Rock & Roll Car Museum has some of the hottest motorcycles, cars, and trucks ever seen all under one roof. Dozens of one-of-a-kind Hot Rods, Choppers, and 4x4s are on view at this “garage-style” museum. They are also home to a collection of unique mementos and memorabilia including miniature vehicles, iconic neon signs and whimsical items. They are open the 1st & 3rd Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission is $3 per person, and children 12 year old and under are free! Click here for more information.
–> Central Texas Speedway
Central Texas Speedway is a 3/8 mile racetrack south of Austin in Kyle, Texas. While kids might not be tall enough to tackle the go-karts at Central Texas Speedway, kids 12 years old and younger get FREE general admission to stock car races. Click here for event schedule and info.
–> Race Car Video Games: Maybe your kids don’t really need to put the pedal to the metal on a track? How about trying some video games that let them do some virtual driving? Here’s a list of Family Friendly Arcades in Austin.
Have fun out there!
