Are you looking for somewhere to go go-karting in Chicago?
There are many options for go-kart racers looking for go-kart tracks near Chicago.
But there are also many options for those looking for a “Family Friendly” outing which involves the option for go-karts.
Where to go Go-Karting in Chicago?
To breakdown all of the best options we have divided this article into “Adult” Go-kart tracks and “Family Friendly” Tracks to help you find the best Go-Kart track for you!
Adult Go-Kart Tracks
If you are looking for Go-kart tracks which mainly cater to teenage and adult drivers. These are the best tracks on offer:
1. K1 Speed (Addison)
2. Accelerate Indoor Speedway
3. Kart Circuit Autobahn
4. Concept Haulers Motor Speedway
5. K1 Speed (Buffalo Grove)
1. K1 Speed
Address: 2381 Army Trail Rd, Addison, IL 60101, United States
Phone: +16304333700
Visit the K1 Speed Website
Get Directions to K1 Speed
One of the most highly rated tracks in Chicago and one of two K1 venues in the Windy City. The Addison facility offers two tracks for competitive racers. One of these tracks is solely for Adult drivers, while the other can be utilised for both Adult and Junior racers.
Both tracks boast very competitive lap times around the 20-second mark, and offer a fast and flowing race experience combining straights and turns. All the karts are electric with top speeds on Adult Karts hitting 45mph, and for safety reasons the staff can remotely control the speeds in case of driver incidents.
These is also the “Paddock Lounge” Restaurant on-site offering a range of good food and beverages. Alcohol can be served to those over the age of 21 AFTER they have finished racing due to a strict anti-drinking and driving policy.
Adult and Junior drivers are unable to race together at this track.
2. Accelerate Indoor Speedway
Address: Southwest Suburbs, 8580 Springlake Dr, Mokena, IL 60448, United States
Phone: +17084577772
Visit the Accelerate Indoor Speedway Website
Get Directions to Accelerate Indoor Speedway
The second of the most highly rated tracks in Chicago is the Accelerate Indoor Speedway. It also offers two tracks, named after the famous races of Le Mans and Monaco.
For the Adults, speeds can reach up to 50mph in an “F1-inspired” electric Go-Kart. Meanwhile, the Junior category (Ages 8-12) have karts that reach 25mph that include a number of additional safety features, including emergency shut-off, to ensure a safe racing environment.
As an aside and to add a bit more excitement to your day, there is also Axe-throwing on site. So you are guaranteed an adrenaline filled outing!
There is also a Bar & Restaurant on-site, but again no drink-driving.
3. Kart Circuit Autobahn
Address: 1801 Centerpoint Way, Joliet, IL 60436, United States
Phone: +18335278222
Visit the Kart Circuit Autobahn Website
Get Directions to Kart Circuit Autobahn
Kart Circuit Autobahn offers a .52 mile professional outdoor circuit with karts able to hit 55mph thanks to their Honda GX270 cc engines.
This track has a minimum age limit of 14, so no option for junior category drivers. However it does offer some of the fastest go-karting speeds in the Chicago area.
Due to being an outdoor track, it is only available through April to October. However it does offer numerous leagues for those wishing to pursue go-karting as a hobby (or more!)
4. Concept Haulers Motor Speedway
Address: 3674 E 2603rd Rd, Sheridan, IL 60551, United States
Phone: +18154962467
Visit the Concept Haulers Motor Speedway Website
Get Directions to Concept Haulers Motor Speedway
Concept Haulers Motor Speedway is a recommended option for those looking to get into go-karting for the competition of it. They offer full league events, endurance racing and the option for “premium karts” which are more powerful than their regular option that go 50mph.
They also have a pro shop for competitive racers and storage facilities for those who own their own equipment.
They do offer a range of outdoor track options, including a kids, rental track and a pro track.
5. K1 Speed (Buffalo Grove)
Address: 301 Hastings Dr, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089, United States
Phone: +18479419400
Visit the K1 Speed (Buffalo Grove) Website
Get Directions to K1 Speed (Buffalo Grove)
The Buffalo location for K1 Speed is the second K1 Speed location featured in this article and due to the nature of the franchise it is quite similar to the first. They both offer the same experience and speeds, though with a different track layouts.
If you and your friend are organising an informal tournament between you. the four K1 tracks offer a good basis with food and drink after the fact.
Go Kart Tracks for Kids in Chicago
If you are looking for something more geared towards younger kids we have two recommendation for you.
These tracks are based in entertainment and fun centers and offer a range of activities for families.
Recommended Go Karting Tracks for Kids
1. Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center
Find out more about Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center
2. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center
Find out more about Sugar Grove Family Fun Center
Summary
There are plenty of high speed options for racers in the Chicago area. The K1 franchises offer a range of locations and tracks and are probably a great place to start. But for those looking for full-on competition, Concept Haulers Motor Speedway is probably the best option for you.
So if you are new to go-karting, be sure to check out our article on what attire to wear go-karting, and for the safety conscious we have an article covering the dangers of go-karts.