For a quarter mile, g-forces stretch faces back into grins as kids and adults zip around G-Force Karts’ twisty track. Tires used in real races outline the course as drivers jockey gasoline-powered European go-karts and vie for checkered flags. A computerized timing system keeps track of everything, providing racers with printouts of times, heat rankings, and the amount of dust their competitors ate.

Safety is paramount—the track is equipped with yellow caution lights for mishaps, and each person receives a safety briefing before getting behind the wheel. While racing, drivers must also wear seat belts, helmets, and neck braces. Each kart is maintained by a full-time mechanic that conducts safety inspections and performance evaluations.

But G-Force Karts is more than adrenaline-fueled races. Families can explore the glowing confines of a laser tag arena overtaken by giant orange ants, blue dragonflies, and green pythons. Using paint-less Z-balls, players also duke it out in one of three colorful challenges available at Richmond's first indoor paintball arena. In addition, the entertainment center hosts birthdays as well as corporate events where the victorious driver gets to shred everyone else's business cards. To accommodate groups of 500 or more, staff can even bring tracks and karts to outdoor locations, supplying events with everything needed for a safe and high-tech racing experience.