Two weekends out of each year, Kansas Speedway is filled with thousands of race fans from all over the world (enough to make it the 6th largest city in Kansas) eager for roaring engines and burning rubber. This May will be no expectation to the excitement that takes hold of the city with the Toyota Tundra 250 and the Go Bowling 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Night Race. But this doesn’t mean Kansas City, KS slows down all other weekends. Here are three weekend adventures that’ll have you racing to Kansas City, KS.
Take it to the track
Let’s say just sitting in the stands watching Jimmie Johnson fly by isn’t enough for you. If you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan looking for the ultimate daredevil day trip, look no further than Richard Petty Driving Experience. Take command of the wheel in a real NASCAR stock car for anywhere from three to 50 (if your budget allows) intense heart pumping laps, gaining speed up to 165 miles per hour. Rookies and younger speed demons can also hop in shotgun for a ride-along with a professionally trained driver. This experience is fast, furious, and truly one-of-a-kind for thrill seekers.
Friday night lights
Why wait for one weekend in May or October for racing in Kansas City? April-October brings a whole new kind of fast fun. This time it’s off the beaten, dirt path. Lakeside Speedway’s half-mile asphalt oval track features USRA Modifieds, Grand Nationals, USRA B-Mods and Factory Stocks. The weekly racing series on Friday nights is a perfect warm weather evening activity for a sports-loving family. Along with the weekly series, Lakeside Speedway hosts many national touring series including the United States Auto Club (USAC) National Spring Car Series. Want to get closer to the dirt track? Check out the Kenny Wallace Dirt Racing Experience.
Zip into action
With 143-Acres to explore, and nine zip lines and three different courses to choose from, Zip KC in Bonner Springs, KS will have your heart and the rest of your body as well, soaring. Launch yourself from a 65-ft tower and fly through the air at speeds up to 45 miles per hour. The adventure park also holds KC Timber Challenge Events that are sure to put your inner-warrior to the test. If your whole family is ready to take it up a notch, check out the KC Timber Challenge’s Family Timber Challenge on April 17th. This 2-mile family fun run takes you through crazy obstacles designed just for kids!
