Tucked into the neon heart of Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls, Ontario—just a stone’s throw from the roar of the Falls themselves—is a wildly unexpected thrill ride that doesn’t involve getting wet or donning a poncho. Meet Niagara Speedway, a towering spiral of steel and speed that’s been called “Canada’s coolest karting track.” Part Mario Kart, part rollercoaster, and all adrenaline, this elevated go-kart track is a must-do for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone with a competitive streak.
So what makes this place so special? Let’s break it down—by the numbers.
2000 Feet of Fast Fun
That’s the total length of track you’ll conquer in a single ride. It might not sound like much—until you realize this isn’t your average flat-track go-kart course. Niagara Speedway rises, dips, twists, and turns with the energy of a carnival ride. The main attraction? A four-story spiral climb followed by a helical descent that feels more amusement park than driving school.
4 Stories High
Yes, four full stories off the ground. This is North America’s largest elevated go-kart track, and the only one of its kind in Canada. The design was inspired by multi-level karting courses in the U.S., with an added twist (literally): a descending corkscrew ramp that adds a rollercoaster feel without losing the fun of a race.
32 Karts on the Track
At max capacity, up to 32 electric go-karts can be zipping along the speedway at once. These aren’t clunky old gas-powered machines either—Niagara Speedway uses state-of-the-art electric karts that are smooth, quiet, and surprisingly zippy. They top out around 32 km/h (20 mph), which feels plenty fast when you’re leaning into the turns and speeding down ramps.
Ages 40” and Up
Kids as young as 40 inches tall can ride as passengers with a licensed adult. Solo drivers must be at least 58 inches tall and at least 18 years old with a driver’s license. That makes the Speedway ideal for families with older kids or teens, and it’s a hit with birthday groups and multi-gen travelers looking for a fun way to burn off energy between sightseeing stops.
Pro Tips for a Faster Lap
Want to shave a few seconds off your time and claim bragging rights? A few tricks from the pros:
- Brake before the turn, not during. Slowing before you enter a curve lets you accelerate out of it cleanly.
- Take the inside line. Just like in real racing, hugging the inside corner reduces distance and helps maintain speed.
- Don’t drift. It might look cool, but sliding sideways kills your momentum. Smooth turns win races here.
- Know when to pass. The track’s wide enough to overtake, but pick your moment—especially before the descent.
Fun for Families & Groups
Niagara Speedway is more than just a solo thrill ride—it’s designed with groups in mind. From birthday parties and family reunions to corporate team-building outings, the track can handle groups of all sizes. There are viewing platforms for cheer squads and plenty of nearby food options (like Kelsey’s patio just steps away) for post-race celebrations or good-natured trash talk.
And the best part? No reservation required. Just show up, buy your ticket, and hop in line. Races run continuously during operating hours, which are extended late into the evening during summer—perfect for catching the Falls’ fireworks after your final lap.
Final Lap
If you thought Niagara Falls was only about mist and marvel, the Niagara Speedway offers a different kind of rush. With its towering spirals, scenic overlook of Clifton Hill, and surprisingly competitive edge, it’s not just a detour—it’s a destination.
Whether you’re nine or ninety, there’s something universally satisfying about flooring the pedal, feeling the wind whip through your hair, and chasing the checkered flag. Just don’t be surprised if the youngest in your crew ends up taking the win.