Adobe Stock / Sergey
Hit the gas and embrace the adrenaline rush while cruising laps around your friends at local racing centers.
The Hudson Valley is well into Phase 4 of reopening, which means low-risk indoor and outdoor activities have the OK to jump back into gear. This is great news for local adventure seekers in search of outdoor activities to try with family and friends. While stargazing and swimming are ideal for lazy weekends, sometimes more action-packed to-dos are needed.
During times like those, the racetracks of the Hudson Valley are ready and waiting for go-kart cruises galore. With everything from high-speed cars to rides geared toward young racers, local tracks are the place to visit for an adrenaline rush – with photo ops to boot.
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Autobahn Indoor Speedway
Open for karting only
West Nyack, 845.535.1515
This premier indoor race is open with enhanced cleaning protocols inside the Palisades Center. This fast thrill is available for all racers looking to get an adrenaline fix. Autobahn prides itself on carts that reach speeds up to 50 mph inside a safe environment. With the course’s high-tech timing system, racers can know their lap time down to the 1/100th of a second., so there will be no questioning about who the winner is.
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The Castle Fun Center
Tracks are open with no reservations required
Chester, 845.469.2116
This Orange County fun center caters to all ages and interests, with rollerblading, ziplining, and racing all onsite. With three outdoor, gas-powered go-kart tracks, individuals of every ability can find their comfort zone. The three tracks consist of the Mini Indy track for young drivers, the Road Course track for those looking to take on the quarter-mile course, and the Slick track for a fast, challenging ride. Single and double carts are both available for those looking to drive or just hold on for the ride.
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Grand Prix New York Racing and Entertainment
Racing is open with online reservations
Mount Kisco, 914.241.3131
Feel the rush of the race at Grand Prix. The course, which is located in the heart of Westchester, provides a stunning multi-level indoor challenge. Bring friends to experience this glow-themed loop, which twists up, over, and down the illuminated tracks. While there, take a shot at the GPX Ninja obstacle course or bowl a few rounds once the space reopens.
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Oakland Valley Race Park
Open for drivers and riders with their own equipment
Cuddebackville, 845.754.8500
For those looking to get into the sport of go-kart racing, Oakland Valley Race Park is the place to be. With a professional staff, the park offers great summer camp opportunities and training sessions to help interested individuals become better racers. OVRP features a three-quarter-mile asphalt sprint track and a quarter-mile oval dirt track for go-kart and motorcycle racers daring enough to zoom around sharp turns and speed along straightaways.
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RPM Raceway
Open since July 17 at half-capacity; arcade not yet open
Poughkeepsie, 845.632.6797
Stop by the Poughkeepsie Galleria to shop, eat, and, of course, race. RPM Raceway’s indoor facility offers adrenaline-filled afternoons for competitive friends and family. RPM’s electric carts are available on a “arrive and drive” basis, meaning no reservation is necessary. Race against 10 drivers, with the fastest lap time taking home the win. Right now, essential health care workers can receive a free race as a thank you for their dedicated service.
