K1 Speed, an American go-kart racetrack franchise based in California with locations worldwide, is getting ready to open a new location in St. Catherine’s.
This will be only the fourth K1 Speed in Canada, following sites in Cambridge, Mississauga, and Toronto, according to the company’s website. Daniel Zychlinski, the managing partner for K1 Speed Canada, tells What Now Toronto that this location is expected to open in late April or early May 2025 with on-site dining options. This likely means the company will include a Paddock Lounge at this location when it opens. The Paddock Lounge isn’t your typical karting concession stand but a full-fledged restaurant-style lounge where racers can recharge before, in between, or after racing sessions.
“The food menu has a variety of options that are appropriate for the entire family, from mouthwatering pizza and wings to burnt-end brats, burgers, and BBQ brisket sandwiches,” according to the K1 website, noting that menus may vary slightly by location. “We offer freshly baked cookies for dessert and fries for a quick snack option. The Paddock Lounge also boasts an extensive beverage menu. For those under 21 years of age, we offer sodas, teas, water, Gatorade, Red Bull energy drinks, and Nescafe coffee. Once an adult (21 years old or older) has finished racing for the day (we have a strict anti-drinking and driving policy), they can enjoy a wide selection of beer and wine – including popular domestic, import, and craft beer, in addition to both red and white wines that are kept at the correct temperature.”
When guests are not eating, they are welcome to take on the exciting indoor racetrack. K1 Speed St. Catharines offers an exciting indoor go-karting experience for kids’ birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and team-building exercises. Featuring high-performance electric karts, the venue provides a safe, thrilling experience with speeds up to 45kph. There’s something for everyone, with options like Arrive & Drive racing for adults and juniors, head-to-head race leagues, and private race packages. The electric karts deliver enhanced safety, excellent performance, and a quiet, fume-free environment, making it a fun and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered racing.
