K1 Speed
K1 Speed is a California-based go-karting company with a growing international presence, including locations in China, Italy, Mexico, and France. Established as a leading entertainment provider, the company operates more than 100 venues across the United States. Known for its electric-powered go-karts capable of reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour, K1 Speed offers a thrilling experience combined with amenities such as arcades and cafes. The company continues to expand its footprint, aiming to deliver exciting, family-friendly recreational experiences in diverse communities. Its latest facility in Kansas City, Kansas, set to open in summer 2026, exemplifies its commitment to community engagement and enhancing local entertainment options.
News Summary
K1 Speed, the California go-karting company, plans to open a new facility in Kansas City, Kansas, by summer 2026. The 54,000 square foot location will feature an electric-powered track, arcade, and café, targeting families and youth sports teams in the area. This marks K1 Speed’s second location in the metro area, following a successful launch in Lee’s Summit. The facility’s proximity to local attractions and competition from other entertainment options underlines the strength of its strategic position.
Kansas City, Kansas – K1 Speed, the California-based go-karting company, has announced plans to open a new facility in Kansas City, Kansas, by summer 2026. This new location will be situated near the Legends Outlets Kansas City at the intersection of North 98th Street and State Avenue, strategically placed adjacent to popular attractions including Kansas Speedway and the upcoming Atlas9 interactive art experience.
The Kansas City facility marks K1 Speed’s second metro location, following the successful launch of a site in Lee’s Summit about two years ago. Franchise owners David and Debbie Hill, alongside their sons Duncan and Devin Hill, will oversee the day-to-day operations of the new facility. This family-run operation aims to provide a top-notch entertainment experience within a rapidly growing commercial area, which has recently welcomed additional attractions such as Margaritaville.
The facility is planned to encompass a spacious 54,000 square feet, making it slightly larger than the Lee’s Summit location, which is located at 2911 NE Independence Ave. The new Kansas City site will feature an electric-powered go-kart track where racers can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. It will also include an arcade area and a café, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Supporting Attractiveness of the Location
The new K1 Speed location is anticipated to benefit from its proximity to the Homefield KCK Showcase Center and Baseball Complex, which attracts numerous traveling youth sports teams. These families can find a perfect spot to relax and enjoy recreational activities between games, increasing the venue’s visitor traffic and community engagement.
Competitive Landscape
A notable aspect of the Kansas City market is the competition among entertainment venues, including an upcoming addition by Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, which is set to open in the former Sprint headquarters at the Aspiria Campus in late November 2024. This facility will offer various attractions, including laser tag and other gaming options, directly competing for the attention of fun-seeking families and individuals in the area.
K1 Speed’s National Presence
K1 Speed currently boasts more than 100 locations across the United States, with additional facilities operating internationally in countries such as China, Italy, Mexico, and France. This expansion strategy demonstrates the company’s commitment to extending its reach within the entertainment sector, ensuring that go-karting enthusiasts have access to exciting venues wherever they may be.
Conclusion
The Kansas City K1 Speed is set to become a significant addition to the local entertainment landscape, enhancing the recreational options available to residents and visitors alike. With a planned opening in the summer of 2026, anticipation for this family-friendly facility continues to grow, propelled by a strong community focus and a dedication to providing exhilarating experiences for all ages.
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City Star
- Kansas City Magazine
- KCTV5
- PR Newswire
- Des Moines Register
- Wikipedia: Go-karting
- Google Search: K1 Speed
- Google Scholar: K1 Speed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Go-kart
- Google News: K1 Speed Kansas City
