The heavyweight champion of Minnesota karting is
ProKART Indoor Racing. With locations in
Burnsville and
Maple Grove, ProKART is unique for running
RiMO EVO6 gas karts fueled by methanol. Unlike the silent electric karts found elsewhere, these machines rumble and vibrate, providing a visceral racing experience year-round. The Maple Grove location is particularly special: in the summer, they open a garage door to connect the indoor track with an outdoor extension, creating a massive hybrid lap.
For outdoor purists,
Stockholm Karting Center in Cokato (about an hour west of Minneapolis) is the "driver's track." It features a
0.65-mile CIK competition circuit with elevation changes and technical corners. They run a fleet of 40mph rental karts that are significantly faster than amusement park rides, hosting leagues and endurance races for serious enthusiasts.
Up north in the Brainerd Lakes Area,
Northland Kart Kountry is the ultimate summer destination. It offers a tiered experience ranging from family tracks to "Indy Viper" karts (which require a driver's license) and "Bullit Karts" for teens, making it a staple for vacationers.
Winter Special: Running Aces Casino & Racetrack (Columbus) hosts a unique
Ice Karting program during the coldest months (typically Jan–Feb). Drivers race studded karts on a frozen course, learning car control in pure ice conditions—a uniquely Minnesotan motorsport experience.
Closure Note:
- MB2 Raceway (Fridley): This facility has permanently closed. The premier indoor option in the metro area is now ProKART.