Date Idea: Go for a Spin on the Track at Richmond Go-Karts

It can be hard coming up with unique and entertaining date activities, beyond the usual going for a bite or a drink. Fortunately, with spring in full swing and summer around the bend, now is the perfect time to hop in a go-kart and drive on an outdoor track together!

Richmond Go-Karts (6631 Sidaway Road, Richmond) boasts the largest go-kart track in Western Canada, and is the only place where you can go-kart outdoors. It’s family owned and has been in Richmond for over fifty years.

The track itself is almost a kilometre long, and is well suited for newbies, as well as more veteran go-karters. If you want, you can take it slow as you navigate curves and hairpin turns; or, if you’re feeling more gutsy, you can take it up a safe notch and drive at a higher speed.

You have a choice between three go-kart models. The first is the single seat kind, which reaches 35 km/h; the second is a high performance kart that can reach up to 50 km/h and offers you increased acceleration and handling as well. These two versions are great if you and your date are wanting to race each other and playfully compete for “best go-karter” bragging rights. Alternatively, there are also the double seat karts, which are a good bet if you want to sit together and one of you just wants to enjoy the ride (that would be me).

After a safety training session, you’ll get the chance to start zipping around the track (twenty-five karts can be on the track at one time). Rides last for at least ten minutes ($12.75, including taxes and helmet rental, for a standard single or double kart; $15, including taxes and helmet rental, for performance karts). And if it’s a slow day on the track, staff will give you extra time beyond your ten minutes. During your ride, you should be able to get in at least nine laps, depending on your speed and skill level (the track takes about a minute to get around).

After you’re done go-karting, there are plenty of other activities for the two of you. Hang out in the covered outdoor picnic area, and nosh on a snack you packed. You’re even allowed to bring your own barbecue. Otherwise, you can order food (e.g. hot dogs and hamburgers) from the snack bar.

Head over to the Pit Stop Games Room where you can play a variety of video games, like fighting and racing ones. There’s also an air hockey table for more competing against your date.

You can easily spend a couple of hours together at Richmond Go-Karts zipping around, hanging out, and generally having a ton of fun! The track is open seven days a week from noon to 8pm. While you can book ahead, drop-ins are always welcome.