There’s nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline as you zip around a track, feeling the g-forces pull at you through every turn. As a lifelong go-kart enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing tracks all across the Empire State. Whether you’re a seasoned racer looking for your next challenge or a family seeking weekend fun, New York offers some incredible karting experiences.
Top Indoor Go-Kart Tracks in New York
RPM Raceway (Multiple Locations)
RPM Raceway stands as a premier indoor karting destination with locations in Syracuse, Buffalo, and Jersey City (just across the river from NYC). What makes RPM special is their commitment to providing a professional racing experience.
Track Highlights:
- European-designed electric karts reaching speeds up to 45 mph
- State-of-the-art timing systems with lap time printouts
- Multi-level tracks with challenging elevation changes
- League racing opportunities for serious competitors
For beginners, don’t worry about being intimidated. The staff provides comprehensive safety briefings before you hit the track, ensuring everyone knows how to control their kart and race responsibly.
Pole Position Raceway (Long Island)
Located in Farmingdale, Pole Position Raceway delivers an exceptional indoor karting experience. Their electric karts are powerful and responsive, perfect for racers of all skill levels.
Track Highlights:
- Quarter-mile indoor track with challenging turns
- Electric karts with variable speed settings for different ages
- Advanced safety barriers and track design
- Corporate events and party packages
If you’re visiting with kids, they offer junior karts for younger racers, making it a perfect family destination. Just make sure everyone is properly equipped with the right safety gear for youth racers.
Destiny USA Go-Kart Track (Syracuse)
Located inside the massive Destiny USA mall, this indoor track offers a unique racing experience that you can combine with shopping and dining.
Track Highlights:
- Compact but technical track layout
- Gas-powered karts with good acceleration
- Family-friendly environment
- Convenient mall location with other attractions nearby
While not as extensive as dedicated racing facilities, the convenience factor makes this a great option for families or casual racers looking for some impromptu fun.
Premier Outdoor Go-Kart Tracks in New York
Oakland Valley Race Park (Cuddebackville)
For serious kart racers, Oakland Valley Race Park (OVRP) is the holy grail of New York karting. This professional outdoor facility hosts competitive racing events but also welcomes recreational drivers.
Track Highlights:
- 0.6-mile professional racing circuit
- Technical layout with challenging corners
- Rental karts available for casual racers
- Bring-your-own-kart options for enthusiasts
OVRP is where many professional racers got their start, and the track’s technical nature makes it perfect for developing your cornering technique. If you own your kart, this is one of the best places in the state to push your skills to the limit.
Riverhead Raceway (Riverhead)
Located on Long Island, Riverhead Raceway is primarily known for its NASCAR events, but it also offers an excellent go-kart track that’s open to the public.
Track Highlights:
- Quarter-mile oval track
- High-speed straightaways
- Professional timing systems
- Racing leagues and special events
The oval layout provides a different racing experience than most technical courses, allowing you to focus on speed and passing strategy rather than complex cornering. It’s a great place to test your nerve at higher speeds.
Beth Bowl Go-Karts (Bethpage)
This Long Island favorite combines go-karting with other family activities for a full day of fun. While not as intense as some dedicated racing facilities, it’s perfect for casual racers and families.
Track Highlights:
- Well-maintained outdoor track
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Affordable pricing
- Additional attractions like mini-golf and batting cages
If you’re looking to introduce kids to go-karting in a low-pressure environment, Beth Bowl is an excellent choice. The track is approachable for beginners but still offers enough excitement for more experienced drivers.
What to Know Before You Go
Age and Height Requirements
Most tracks have minimum age and height requirements for safety reasons:
- Indoor tracks typically require drivers to be at least 48″-54″ tall
- Outdoor tracks may have similar height requirements but often allow younger drivers on junior karts
- Adult tracks usually require drivers to be at least 12-16 years old
Pricing and Packages
Go-kart racing costs vary widely across New York:
- Single races: $15-30 per session
- Multiple race packages: Often discounted at 3+ races
- Membership options: Regular racers should look for monthly passes
- Special events: League racing and endurance events have different pricing
Best Times to Visit
To maximize your racing experience:
- Weekday mornings and afternoons typically have the smallest crowds
- Avoid weekend evenings when tracks are busiest
- Call ahead during tourist season to check wait times
- Consider booking private track time for special occasions
Safety First: Preparing for Your Race
Before hitting any track, it’s important to understand proper go-kart safety standards. Most facilities provide helmets, but you might want to consider:
- Wearing closed-toe shoes (mandatory at most tracks)
- Avoiding loose clothing that could get caught in machinery
- Removing scarves, dangling jewelry, and other accessories
- Following all track rules and flag signals
If you wear glasses, you might wonder if that’s a problem. Good news! You can absolutely wear glasses while go-karting, and most helmets accommodate them comfortably.
How to Choose the Right Track for You
With so many options across New York, how do you pick the best go-kart track for your needs? Consider these factors:
- Experience level – Beginners might prefer tracks with wider turns and straightforward layouts
- Location – Choose something convenient to avoid spending more time driving than racing
- Kart type – Electric karts offer instant torque while gas karts provide a more traditional racing feel
- Indoor vs outdoor – Consider the season and weather conditions
- Additional amenities – Some facilities offer arcades, food, and other entertainment
New York Go-Kart Track Comparison
| Track Name | Indoor/Outdoor | Kart Type | Skill Level | Family-Friendly | Additional Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPM Raceway | Indoor | Electric | All levels | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | League racing, timing systems |
| Pole Position Raceway | Indoor | Electric | All levels | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Corporate events, party packages |
| Destiny USA Go-Kart | Indoor | Gas | Beginner-Intermediate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Shopping mall, dining |
| Oakland Valley Race Park | Outdoor | Gas | Intermediate-Advanced | ⭐⭐⭐ | Professional racing events |
| Riverhead Raceway | Outdoor | Gas | Intermediate-Advanced | ⭐⭐⭐ | NASCAR events, racing leagues |
| Beth Bowl Go-Karts | Outdoor | Gas | Beginner-Intermediate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Mini-golf, batting cages |
Conclusion
Whether you’re racing indoors or outdoors, the key to an enjoyable experience is preparation. Arrive early to complete registration and safety briefings. Listen carefully to the track attendants, as they’ll provide valuable information about the karts and track conditions.
Goran, an experienced go-kart racer, fuels GoKartLife.com with his passion and expertise. He offers valuable insights and tips for fellow enthusiasts, fostering the growth of the go-kart community. Join Goran at GoKartLife.com and immerse yourself in this exhilarating sport.
Last modified: April 30, 2025
