Autobahn Indoor Speedway is a chain of indoor karting facilities across the United States

Autobahn Indoor Speedway operates multiple locations in different states, each with electric go-kart tracks, arcade games, and food service. The chain is not a single venue but a franchise system, so the specific track layout, kart models, pricing, and hours vary by location. Before you visit, you need to know which Autobahn location is nearest to you and what that particular facility offers.

The core experience at each Autobahn is the same: you drive an electric go-kart on an indoor track, typically racing against other drivers in the same session. Most locations have multiple track configurations and host both walk-in racing and organized events like birthday parties and corporate outings. The tracks are climate-controlled, so weather does not affect your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Autobahn has multiple locations in different states, and each one has its own track design, pricing, and hours of operation.
  • You can usually show up and race without a reservation, though booking ahead may be required during peak times or for group events.
  • Most locations have a minimum age and height requirement to drive a kart, and some offer passenger rides for people who do not meet those requirements.
  • Electric karts at Autobahn are quieter and produce no exhaust, which is why they work indoors, but they have less power than gas-powered karts at outdoor tracks.

How to find your nearest Autobahn location and what it offers

Autobahn's website lists all operating locations with their addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Each location page shows the track layout, the number of karts available, and the types of events they host. Some Autobahn facilities are larger than others and may have multiple tracks or different difficulty levels.

Call or visit the location's page before you go. Pricing, age requirements, height minimums, and available time slots change by location. Some Autobahns require a waiver to be signed before you race, and some allow you to sign online ahead of time. A few locations have special pricing for children, seniors, or group bookings, but these deals are not standard across all Autobahn facilities.

Age, height, and driver requirements

Every Autobahn location sets its own minimum age and height to drive a kart. Most require drivers to be at least 8 years old and 48 to 52 inches tall, but some are stricter and some are more lenient. The facility's website or a phone call will tell you the exact requirements for the location you plan to visit.

Children who do not meet the age or height requirement can usually ride as a passenger in a two-seat kart with an adult driver. Some locations also offer a junior track or slower kart option for younger or less experienced drivers. If you are unsure whether your child can drive, ask the staff when you arrive — they measure height and can tell you on the spot.

How electric karts work and what that means for your race

Autobahn uses electric go-karts instead of gas-powered ones. Electric karts are quieter, produce no fumes, and are safer indoors because there is no risk of carbon monoxide buildup. They accelerate smoothly and are easier to control than gas karts, which makes them better for beginners and indoor tracks where tight turns are common.

The trade-off is that electric karts have less raw power and top speed than outdoor gas-powered karts. They also have a limited battery range, so a single race session is typically 8 to 15 minutes depending on the location. The karts are recharged between sessions, so you cannot race back-to-back without a break unless the facility has multiple karts available.

Pricing and how races are structured

Autobahn charges per race session, not per lap or per minute. A typical session costs between $20 and $40, but the exact price depends on the location, the time of day, and whether you book in advance. Peak times (evenings and weekends) are usually more expensive than off-peak times (weekday afternoons).

Most locations offer multi-race packages at a discount — for example, buying three races at once may cost less than buying them one at a time. Some Autobahns have membership or loyalty programs that reduce the per-race cost if you visit regularly. Birthday parties and corporate events have separate pricing and usually require advance booking.

What happens during a typical race session

When you arrive, you check in and sign a waiver (or confirm that you signed one online). Staff measure your height if you have not been to that location before, and they assign you a kart. You put on a helmet and get a safety briefing about the track rules and how to operate the kart.

You then drive onto the track with other racers in your session. The race is timed, and your position and lap times are usually displayed on a screen or printed out at the end. Some locations rank racers by fastest lap or total time, and some award prizes or certificates to the top finishers. After the session ends, you return the kart and helmet, and your race is complete.

Other activities and amenities at Autobahn locations

Most Autobahn facilities have an arcade with video games and redemption games. Many also have a food court or snack bar serving pizza, hot dogs, nachos, and drinks. Some larger locations have private party rooms, lounge seating, and TVs for spectators who want to watch the races.

A few Autobahn locations host special events like league racing, time trials, or corporate team-building days. These events often have different pricing and rules than walk-in racing. Check your local facility's website or call ahead to see what events they offer and when they are scheduled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a race in advance, or can I just show up?

Most Autobahn locations allow walk-ins during off-peak hours, but calling ahead is a good idea to confirm that a race session is available. Peak times (Friday and Saturday evenings, Sunday afternoons) often fill up, so booking in advance is recommended if you want to race at a specific time.

What should I wear to race at Autobahn?

Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement. Autobahn provides a helmet, so you do not need to bring your own. Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, or anything that could get caught in the kart. Long hair should be tied back.

Can spectators watch the race?

Yes, most Autobahn locations have viewing areas where friends and family can watch the race. Some have bleachers or standing room along the track, and some have screens showing live timing and results. Ask the staff where spectators should stand when you check in.

Is there a difference between racing at different Autobahn locations?

Yes. Each location has its own track layout, kart models, and facility size. Some tracks are longer or have more turns than others, and some have multiple difficulty levels. If you have raced at one Autobahn, the experience at another location may feel different.

What if I have never driven a go-kart before?

Autobahn karts are designed for beginners, and the staff will give you a safety briefing before you race. Electric karts are easier to control than gas karts, and the indoor track is typically shorter than outdoor tracks, so you will have less distance to learn. Most people feel comfortable driving after the first few laps.