Cons: -Short 1/2mile oval means you only get a few seconds of hard acceleratiom -They claim these cars are not detuned-- they have to be, not nearly the power I expected. -They sucker you into the $89 insurance, which you would be foolish not to get on your first time. -If you go in the PM, you will be fighting sun glare in both turns. Pros: -Spotter was awesome! He seemed to be having just as good a time. Always engaged, helping you find the line. -Classroom instruction is no nonsense, informative, if not repetitive. -On your race day only, you can buy unlimited $100 passes to go again, but no insurance is included. -WOW are these cars awesome, incredible grip. -As fun as advertised 4* because for the price, I wouldn't do it again. I can do go-karting 11x for the same price, and half the speed but left and right turns. Insurance sucks to pay. But do not get me wrong, an unforgettable experience, and if it were half price always, I'm sold! PRO TIP!!! My spotter told me that no amateur is going to get going fast enough to need the brakes. So roll on the gas, stay smooth and find your line! If you are really good you will crack a 20sec or 21sec lap, but guess what? The pros do it in 14sec. Your car is not even CLOSE to its limits. read more

Bought this for my hubby as a gift through Living Social... The availability on weekends is really limited... We tried booking in Nov 2011, but they didn't have weekend availability until Mar 2012 (4 months later). We had to do a last minute reschedule, and the next weekend date wasn't until Sept 2012 (6 months later) - and it was a 8am Sunday morning appt. Not impressed. What bothered me the most was that they also scare the heck out of you about geting insurance for in case you crash the race car... which may cost you up to a couple hundred grand. So you end up paying an extra $89 to pay for peace of mind. Not exactly a super deal when you think about it. That said - my hubby seemed to enjoy the race car driving experience - approx 10 min for 20 laps... So I'll give them an extra star for that. read more

Another livingsocial deal here. My wife bought me the 20 lap voucher last year on a whim. I arrived about 30 minutes before my scheduled time and wound up in group 2 (actually preferred for me, since you can see what the first group does and the cars/tires are already warmed up by the time it gets to your turn). As everyone else mentioned, the first thing when you enter the door is the sales pitch for the insurance. I would consider it a soft sell with no pressure. If you pay attention in class and listen to the instructions relayed over the headset, I think it would be fairly safe to skip the insurance and not think twice. The "20 lap adventure" starts off with a 1 hour class. As far as I can tell, they will support up to 24 drivers per class session (six groups of four cars on the track at a time). The instructor was well versed and moved through the relevant topics with the appropriate amount of detail. The insurance was brought up several more times, but I didn't find it invasive as it was during safety discussions. If anything, you learn what not to do whilst driving. The cars themselves are as advertised, tube chassis cars running open exhausts and race fuel (hope your nose isn't too sensitive). There is very little 'adjustment' to the fit of the car, I believe if you need more reach to the pedals they provide you with cushions or pillows. I am 5'10" with a 30" inseam and had no problem flooring the pedals or reaching the steering. As soon as you climb through the window, the belter (aka helper) locks you down tight into the seat with a five-point race harness. As opposed to the critical review posted, I would say these cars have the power advertised. I'm not sure how someone can compare driving a sportscar on the street to a car with racing slicks on a banked oval. It took several laps for me to even be able to trust the amount of grip the tires had in the turns. The g-forces are way more than I can accomplish in MY sportscar on the street before losing traction. By the way, on this type of track you build speed by keeping momentum over several laps, not just by flooring it on the short straightaways. If you want fast straightline acceleration, maybe look for "drag racing adventure" instead. I would definitely do this again. Bringing a few friends along to race against might make it even that much more fun. The class, car, driving experience are all top notch in my book. The pricing of the add-ons are the only reason I rate this below a five star experience. read more

This is a neat little setup. Yes they emphasize the $89 insurance for a $2,500 deductible but there's always an entrance fee for these kinds of sports. Get past that and they really focus on safety which is good because once you get on the track it's nice to know you are in a controlled environment. You get 20-laps which usually takes about 15-20 minutes and this course allows "controlled passing" so if you start catching up to the car in front of you the safety guy on the microphone will call for the car in front to move down then call for you to pass on the outside. It's fun, it's safe as long as you follow instructions, and you will get what you are expecting. Just a tip, try to get there 30 minutes early so you can sign in and be in the first group out. There are 6 groups of four drivers and if you sign in last then you'll be in the last group. It's fun to watch to cars go around the track too so it's not so bad. Just a good tip to be aware of in case you come with a time constraint. read more

Drive a car like the race car drivers. Suggestion get a groupon, living social or travelzoo voucher for cheaper cost. Great gift ideas read more

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This place is probably rolling around in money and laughing. As other Yelpers mentioned, they do a good job of scaring you into buying the $89 insurance just in case anything happens. Our group of 4 was scared and decided to be safe. My friends were whispering what would happen if we had to declare bankruptcy if we couldn't pay for a $50k car and it's damage. Horrible images of my family being poor and my parents being miserable (they grew up in those conditions, and I don't see why they should grow old with those conditions) started materializing in my mind. If you're going to be risky or drive with other drivers that you don't know, get the insurance JUST IN CASE. You don't know what's going to happen to you out there on the race track and it our first time there. We were all driving amongst each other, but are extremely cautious, so it was ok. They basically group you from the sign-in sheet as to what order you came in. The experience itself was good. If you come late/last, you are waiting for about 2 hours after the initial safety talk to drive. Our time was at 1pm and since there were 5 groups ahead of us, we got out at close to 5pm. Everyone is obviously friendly and there are refreshments (moist chocolate cake, almond cookies, fruit, apple juice, coffee, water). One of my favorite moments was the gown-up ladies. They were so helpful and nice and helped us take pictures while we waited our turn. The guys that make sure you are in the race car properly are well-trained, friendly and patient. I ask tons of questions and am slow to catch on sometimes because I don't listen well, and they were fine with me. Our LivingSocial deal was 20 laps for about $130 or so (try to do that buy 1 and have 3 friends buy it, so you get yours free, and split the cost!). When you rev up the engines and feel your adrenaline levels rising, it's one of the best feelings in the world. The first initial tester laps were one of the best since it gives you time to get used to the track and how the car handles. It looks very daunting at first, but you learn to trust the car and push your limits. They keep warning you not to push the throttle too much at curves, but that's when you're going really fast. If you were going a bit slower, it was ok to lightly tap it. Like I said, you learn to trust the car and yourself behind the wheel. It's more of a once-in-a-lifetime thing for all of us, as we don't have enough money to make it rain, but some people do this as a hobby. A good experience, but I would not do it again. read more

You can actually get behind the wheel and race a NASCAR stock car!!! It's the best gift ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

LA Racing - www.LARacingX.com - Arcades Near Me - Irwindale, California

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Just ran 20 laps on Sunday and this was easily one of the most fun experiences IN MY LIFE. Do not let the insurance scare you. These are $50,000 cars. They are letting drivers - the same people who don't know how to merge onto freeway entrances or make right on red turns - pass one another and hit max speeds in excess of 140MPH. Yes, they sell insurance. Yes, you need it. You can be the best driver in the world but the world is full of stupid people. You don't want stupid people to hit you in your non-insured car. In a race before mine, someone went into the wall. He had insurance. If you can't afford $89 or $2500 deductible (this is obviously done on purpose so people are cautious), don't come here. Your normal insurance WILL NOT cover damages to these cars. Ok - Yelp venting aside, this was amazing. I thought this was like all the race car experiences - get in a car that's tuned down, run laps, check your lap times. Nope - not at all. You get into a real NASCAR. You drive over 100MPH the entire time. You get to pass one another on a real course. It's freaking awesome! There is no other way to get THIS CLOSE to racing than this. Period. Because of the set-up, it's mostly safe - you will receive directions via radio to your helmet about when to pass or let others pass you. You will get a chance to test your skills and try to catch the lead car or cars. It's exciting as hell, and if you can grab the Groupon, I doubt you'll find any way more fun to spend $150. The class instruction is great, but a little scary. This is GOOD. You want people to have a little fear and a lot of instruction on how to turn, when to hit the gas, when to slow down, etc. The instructor does make you fully aware of the fact that you can crash into cars or walls. It's a little nervewracking, but once you get into the car and take a lap or two, fear is gone and adrenaline takes over. You just want to see how fast you can go and how many people you can pass! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! I'm going back and at least 4 of my friends want to check it out too. Awesome place! They will try to sell you stuff on the way out (you mean they are a FOR PROFIT BUSINESS? My god that's crazy!) - I got the picture (came out awesome) and video. Great place, friendly staff, good instructions. Great work LA RACING! read more

Bought 2 race passes about 2 years ago from groupon for the wifey and myself as a anniversary gift. Evette from LA racing was great in proving all the information I needed as to booking our driving date and time. I had to reschedule twice. Excellent customer service. I booked about 2 months in advance since I was coming from SF. 20 laps in a NASCAR? Yeah it's pretty BAD A**. To me, it looked intimidating at first but it's pretty awesome once you get behind the wheel. When you're on the track, they only count green laps so that is pretty fair cause there is always somebody with some sort of problem. Try to check in early so you will be the first to go out on the track with your group. Only 4 cars at a time. 20 laps = about 25-30 min. This place is pretty legit. They have you wear earbuds to listen to the spotters (your field of vision is very limited) you're wearing a helmet, driving suit, gloves and bring sunglasses for the daytime. They have firefighters on stand by just in case and really harp about safety. That's cool with me. I didn't get nervous until I was behind the wheel. During the drive, I thought I was going pretty fast but then all these cars passed me. What!!! Then it was over! it was over so fast just when I was getting the hang of it. The turns on the track and pretty awesome as you just glide through it. The G force is no joke, so bring your muscles because there is no power steering. The wheel is all you. Also, trust your spotter and if he tells you to speed up, do it! The car will stick to the track- promise. I wish I listened to him. He told me to trust him, I was like "fool, I don't even know you!" Damn, should have listened. We will be back, hopefully they will have another groupon. Try to sign up for a later time like at night. It will be a lot cooler. We went at 1pm and it was like 130 degrees with my gear on in the car. read more

I have nothing bad to say about our experience with LA Racing! I bought this as a birthday gift for my boyfriend. I was glad I checked Groupon first, thanks to these reviews, because it really did cut the cost in HALF! If you do go to the races in Irwindale often, they also offer serious discounts if you book while watching a race. I won't repeat what everyone else has already said on this page, but I do want to comment on the several comments about the insurance. The orientation was maybe 30-45 min. and I thought it was very useful to know what to expect once we got out there. We were not "cornered" to buy the insurance. We were simply told stories that happened to other people that did not buy the insurance. In my opinion, it is only sensible to insure at $30,000 car that you are driving. It is NOT as intense as many of these Yelpers made it sound. He got to drive a fancy car, suit up and go fast. This was a great time and we will do it again! read more

What a heck of a good time. Yes, it's a short track. Yes, they pound into your head "don't crash the car" while convincing you that insurance is a good idea. Yes, they will kick you out for being stupid (like passing people when you're not cleared - something they said over and over and over and over in the training.) All that said...the little voice in your head that always wants you to go faster? It's matched by a voice in your ear from your spotter telling you to "give it a little more throttle." I have absolutely no idea how fast I was going...but it seemed pretty freaking fast. Put the pedal to the metal a few times. The cars hug the road. They take effort to steer and brake - you have to pay attention. Although it's only 20 laps, it's pretty tiring. The most surprising thing is how little you can actually see. It's a lot like a 90's racing game - you have a small-ish window to look through. Hit the gas. See a car, pass the car. Try not to crash. All in all, it was really, really fun. read more

My wife bought this as a Christmas gift through Living Social for $149. I dont know who would ever pay the regular price of $300. I wish I would have passed on the insurance. They really try hard to scare you into buying it. I think the only way they make any money is with the insurance, photos, and videos. Living Social does get 50% of the $150. There is no reason you will wreck unless you are a really bad driver or some moron hits you (very small chance). Save the $89, if there was no $2500 deductible I would say go for the insurance. The cars are fast and loud, but if your used to really fast cars you might be a little disappointed. The 20 laps goes by really fast. For those other people who wrote reviews complaining about regularly being told to let people pass you, YOU ARE A SLOW DRIVER. I noticed a common theme in the reviews and during my time on the track. Women are slow and cautious drivers. During my 20 laps the spotter spent 90% of the time given the same instructions over and over to a slow, woman driver. I was hoping for more feedback from the spotter. As a whole it was a fun experience, but not worth the money if you get the insurance. I was in the second group of racers. I cant imagine having to wait another hour like some people did for the latter groups. They do a good job of making it feel safe and give clear instructions. I wish I would have gone faster in the corners. This is not your Toyota Camry that your used to driving. You can go much faster in the corners than you think is possible. Anther 10 laps would have been perfect. **** Useful Tips **** Its really hard to schedule a race. Plan on having to wait 3 or more months before any spots are available. Plan on allowing 3-4 hours for the whole experience. You only get about 10 actual minutes of racing time. Arrive early, the order of groups goes by when you arrive. If you sign in last you have to race last. There is a $100 race passes available after you are done racing. You can buy up to 10 of these passes and they can be given as gifts. Have a someone you know race and then buy the $100 passes. That way if you have a group of friends or family that want to go, everyone saves $50. Don't buy the crappy insurance. There is still a $2500 deductible. The chances of wrecking are slim if you follow instructions and use common sense. Try to get in a group with all men. I watched the other groups while waiting and every time the woman driver was painfully slow (you have to get the go ahead from the spotter before passing). I think slick track kart racing was actually more fun for a fraction of the cost. Its not as fast and intimidating, but does require more skill. Attention LA Racing! You would have much happier customers if you charged a little bit more and included the insurance with a smaller deductible. The $89 up sell almost ruined my experience. Even if you buy the insurance, your still stressed out by the high deductible. read more

Purchased a LivingSocial deal as a Christmas present for someone and ended up going as a group of 4. The experience itself is pretty awesome! The teachers were details, obviously enjoy their work and truly care about their customers. Our appt was at 1pm, we showed up half an hour early so we were able to see others before us race. At our appt time we went inside for instructions. We purchased the insurance and sat through class instruction. Both presenters were informative, helpful and patient with the less experienced who had many questions. During race time, the spotters was helpful and encouraging (especially for me who wasn't a super fast driver on the track). Overall, a good experience. My rating is down 2 stars for the following reasons: 1) It was a bit of a pain to confirm dates with LA racing. You have to submit your voucher number on their website, wait a few days for them to send you a race pass number. Only when you receive your race pass number can you actually schedule your appointment. I'm sure they have their reasons for their process, but comparing this racing event to another I've participated in with Gotham Dreams Cars (yes, different kind of cars but similar experience), this process was more involved and annoying. 2) I felt nickel and dimed. Again, comparing my experience to Gotham Dream Cars, I didn't have to buy additional insurance with them and the Gotham Experience provided pictures directly to you at the event. I understand charging for video (which LA racing does), but LA racing wants to charge you $17 for a picture of you in the car! read more

This was a lot of fun, a great experience, glad i did it. some of the other reviews on yelp are true, it is hard to get an appointment and took a few months, but with proper planning this was not an issue for me, plan ahead. they do try and sell you the insurance and are pretty aggressive about it, i bought it and wish i hadn't, nobody crashed when i was there, but that is up to you to decide. i did not get the video or the utube options, but did buy the picture which was worth the $12 and scanned it. overall, ya i am a fan, do it! read more

Took my bf here for his Valentines Day gift! He had an awesome time! The instructor was hilarious, but like many people mentioned they really push the insurance and he kept saying "Dont crash my race car!" He didn't really have to push that hard because who would want to worry about a $38k payment?! No thanks! Insurance for $85 was just fine and dandy with us! The class went by really fast and it was pretty intimidating for a newbie to go into a race car after it, but it was still a fun experience! When my bf got out of the car he said how awesome it was and how much he enjoyed it! The only thing I wish they would do differently is maybe try to group drivers by skill level. My bf was a beginner in a group with 2 guys who seemed to know their way around a track. As a result, he was constantly having to ride the bottom line! I get they want to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone but if you're constantly making someone ride the line and never giving them the chance to get back up on the track and gain speed, he's never going to be away from that bottom line! Also, one of the 2 speed demons out there kept getting right on the tail of the driver in the lead, but they never made that guy ride the line. I just remember sitting in the stands getting scared that a crash was going to happen. It was just kind of weird to me, but whatever nobody crashed! All in all it was a good experience and we had a fun time there! They could just do a couple of "tune ups" to their rules and practices! OH and to top it off, the photo they take of the driver in the car was free as a special Valentine's Day gift! Woo hoo :) read more

I got 20 laps for my husband for Christmas and he finally had time to get on the track today. The experience was awesome from the moment we got there! Everyone was very knowledgeable and very nice! The 45 minute instructional class was full of really good information and perfect for the first time driver (like my husband) and I'm sure a great refresher for seasoned drivers. Everything was organized really well and was smooth from start to finish! My husband had a GREAT time! Obvious from the big smile on his face when he got off the track. Definitely a day to remember! We HIGHLY recommend LA Racing in Irwindale! Thank you for an awesome afternoon! read more

LA Racing - Arcades Near Me - Irwindale, California

Someone AWESOME surprised me with this experience for XMas and I was surprised they actually let you drive the race car yourself without anyone driving it. So you get 20 LAPS and get to drive around slowly to get the feel of it for 2 extra laps before. Once you walk in they ask what insurance you would like. I recommended paying the $89 and getting the Limited Liability insurance as anything can happen and it's better to have peace of mind. If you do damage the car then you pay up to a $2500 deductible. After there's a 1 hour class to teach you safety and how to drive the course. My instructor was awesome and enthusiastic. They split your class into 6 groups and each group has 4 people so you will only be driving with 3 people because there is controlled passing which is nice to get a great drive in. It's a mini race track, so you're not gonna get higher than 100mph, but you're gonna feel heavy g forces on the turns. By the 15th lap I could feel it harder to hold the turns in my arms. There is NO POWER steering. It's legit. Honestly, this was such an amazing experience. It's a feeling you don't quite ever experience in real life till you get out there. If you love fast cars and going fast as well as driving control DEFINITELY COME HERE for a good time! read more

This place is great for a racing experience. Grabbed a deal on Travel Zoo during xmas time for my hubby and he just used it! Its a little weird when driving to this area because it doesn't feel like there will be anything open to the public around there. I guess that is the best place to put a track! Everyone was really friendly and open when we arrived. Customer service is great for a place that sees a lot of 1 timers. It is good to know that in the class they say they have a lot of repeat customers! I watched the driving, it looks like fun and really safe actually. the workers are really concerned w. driver safety so if you don't' listen to instructions you get pulled off the track, which happened to a driver when I was there. Most def want to try the night class!!! BTW the car gets HOOOOTTT so bring shorts!!! read more

Purchased the $150 Groupon deal for my friend's birthday. We were the only young mid-20s girls there (average age in our class was 40s and all male). When we walked through the doors, they try selling you the insurance $89. If anything happens to the car you're covered but there is still a $2,500 deductible that you'd be responsible for. They do a good job in scaring you to think that something bad will happen (dent, crash, total car). But just know, there are only 4 cars allowed on the road and you control your own speed. So unless you're a risky driver, expect to go turbo fast, and cant follow basic instructions, you shouldn't get it. My friend and I just wanted the basic minimal experience so we opted out on the $89 insurance and are so glad we did. This is def. something you do once in your lifetime, not necessarily catered towards young women (if you're short, you probably wouldn't do well, i'm 5'6 and they had to put a seat cushion in the back so I can reach pedal safely). Also, if you're overweight, it might not be the best activity as you have to climb through a little window to get into the car. Now if you get on a team and the other drivers seem like they want to go balls out (then get the insurance!) lol Overall the staff were pretty professional, besides the selling of insurances, and then the come-back for more upsell, it was a great first experience. read more

I saw on Groupon that LA Racing was having a deal on a race car experience by driving laps on the race tracks and thought that was perfect for my husband. He also had to go through a brief instruction class, then get strapped for racing gear. It was quite a long wait when it was time for my husband's turn. However, my husband had a great time and an amazing experience with LA Racing. read more

LA Racing - After an hour of waiting, it was finally my husband's turn! - Arcades Near Me - Irwindale, California

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My wife bought me the 20 lap pack for Christmas. Fantastic! Went this morning. ANY need for a gift for anyone, anytime.. This is it! I've done plenty of adrenaline pump in my 52 years .. started dirt bike riding at 9 & still ride, co-drove with my buddy in pro class open desert buggy racing.. This is right up at the top. Really great time!! Super staff, honestly rocket fast, very well maintained true race cars. Big boys note: I,m 6'2" 330ish (Big bones!) .. I fit.. barely! Buy the stupid insurance! When your facing a concrete wall on the outside of a very rapidly approaching corner, feels like you're doing 150mph & you say EVERY time in your head "I hope this damn thing can hold the line".. then you say "Glad I bought the insurance" .. it holds & you hammer the throttle AGAIN - That's the pure rush!! Amazing great time! read more

Purchased 6 tickets, fully upgraded with insurance and video recording and pictures. While the race itself was fun, i felt insurance was not really necessary. Only one of the videos came out well recorded. Overall pretty good experience with lots of upsell and tech glitches. read more

LA Racing - 20 laps in nascar stock race car - Arcades Near Me - Irwindale, California

My husband Dan decided our office would race together. So Dan plus Taylor, his assistant, Rebekka our Office Manager and I went to LA racing. We had an hour training in the classroom, suited up and went on the track for 20 laps. We had a spotter who gave instructions through the earpiece while we raced around the oval track. Altho I regularly drive on the LA freeways (often bumper to bumper at 65 mph) I was not the fastest in our group. My spotter kept saying "get that speed up on the straightaway--I know you can do it" I can see where you might lose control if you give it gas on the curve. My husband bought some more trips for next time. It would be easier next time because although the classroom info was good, being there and having the experience makes you better. read more

I have now done this experience twice and have signed up for a third session. My first time was with a Groupon special, and after you complete your session there is a special $100 re-race which I have taken advantage of the offer. When you arrive there is a talk about insurance and the importance to purchase it. It is about 89$ for that but better safe than sorry I suppose. This whole experience really was a dream come true for myself. I have always dreamed of driving a fully loaded stock car and LA Racing made that dream a reality. I have always been a huge fan of racing my entire life and this definitely fulfilled and satisfied my need for speed. I attend this track quite often so I was familiar on how to navigate the course. The experience itself was a great one. It was organized and smoothly run thanks to a helpful and friendly staff. The cars itself were as real as could be. I am almost 6'5 and barely fit into the car through climbing though the window but I wasn't going to let that stop me! Some things I did notice, the cars itself are incredibly fast and the accelerator pedal is not so much a pedal but a bar across, so it did take some getting used to. My first time I did this it was in the morning and my second time was at night under the lights. I have to admit I much prefer driving under the lights, it was cooler and much easier to see the track compared to the glaring sunlight during the daytime. The driving itself is awesome, and they have a white line painted on the track for drivers to follow to ensure quick lap times. The spotters help you out while on the track by guiding you along and giving you tips for how to improve your driving. I would HIGHLY recommend this for any special occasion especially for people who are into auto racing! And I will admit that the more times one does this experience the better it truly becomes. Plus there is a strong possibility that one might get hooked on LA Racing! I know I plan to continue the LA Racing experience for years to come! :) read more

Poor customer service, I have 2 racing vouchers I purchased earlier this year when they where L.A Racing that expire 4/24/2019. Same phone#, same yelp but they claim its a different company and will not honor my vouchers. What a joke, they wasn't even willing to talk and just flat out said NO!!! They are no good and your screwed, WTF not cool. Same employees, same location, same cars, same yelp, same phone# just changed their name to L.A Racing X or YouRaceLA but claims they are a completely different company. What a dam SCAM.... this should be illegal. read more

got some for my dad and brother. I got them at a special price, and agree I wouldn't pay full price. Apparently my brother had no problem changing classes. They both enjoyed it, and could not go full out. read more

This is my second time visiting LA racing at the Irwindale Speedway and it's even more of a rush the second time around! Defiantly one of the THE best deals when it comes to arrive and drive racing experiences. Stop thinking about it and just sign up, you'll be glad you did! I did the 6pm class and was the first group on the track. We had the added bonus of having the blinding sun setting as we entered turn 1, which just added another dimension to it all. It takes a few laps to get acclimated to how the car handles and the grip. Irwindale Speedway isn't about horsepower, it's about smooth and consistent laps. The old saying "To go fast you have to go slow" works here. The smoother and more consistent my laps were, the faster I got, with my last few laps being my best...roughly 20 sec lap times from the video a friend took of us from the stands. My nephew and I were working the cars, evening getting a bit of drift out of the corners. I will say they do drill it into you about the dangers and the cost of crashing their cars. If you are like me, someone that likes to push the limits, I would still recommend the insurance. There was a few times this session I thought I was going to need it (glad I didn't have to). WoooooooHooooooooooo....is all I can say about this experience! read more

Was an overall great experience, the staff was pleasant, and the instructor was awesome. Very clear instructions. I've read some other reviews and they are spot on when it comes to instructions and the class portion. I felt safe the entire time as you can't pass without being told to do so by your spotter. The communication was awesome. And...they offer great discounts for additional packages once you go through the course. A huge plus if you want to go back. They let you have spectators in the grandstands, which is really cool. The group before us had an entourage as it was their grandpa/dad/husband driving. Very fun! Wish we would have thought of that to have pictures of us actually driving the car. You can purchase a DVD of the in-car video of you driving, but at $100 we passed. Bought the insurance, but it doesn't cover much! They put the fear of God in you about putting the car into the wall so you buy it. Looking back I wouldn't purchase the insurance again. If you are a really bad driver or if you can't follow basic instructions on how to drive the car then you shouldn't be driving a Nascar in the first place. Haven't received our wood plaque with our picture yet, but after seeing the $20 paper version right after you race I have to say I'm disappointed. I didn't know the camera man was there until I was putting my hand out the window during headphone checks with my spotter. The head sock I had on under my helmet was showing and I wished I had taken my sunglasses off. I think the girls that outfit you in your gear should tuck the head socks for you as there are no mirrors at the tent. It was all so quick that I didn't have time to think about that stuff. For the money you pay for the pictures it should have been more professional. Also, the plaque fees that are listed don't include the required shipping & handling fee. I guess it said it on the paper we filled out for our mailing information, but we didn't get a copy of it and of course I didn't read the whole sheet nor did they specifically mention it. I only realized it after the fact at home when I looked at my receipt that it had an additional $9.95 charge on it. My husband and I both bought the plaques and since they are going to the same address I think that is a bit excessive. Hopefully they will come shipped separately in nice bubble wrap for that fee. I would do it again, but my husband who has a bad knee said he wouldn't. At 6' 4" he was crammed in the car and his knee was screaming by the time he was done. We heard that the truck is roomier. If you are a big guy definitely ask for the largest car or truck. read more

Good service. I will like to thank every body work there for the good service. Special Mr Blackwell and David. For there service.

I haven't even been yet and I'm already upset. I booked my trip a month ahead of time they confirmed the date and time and sent me my tickets. Three weeks later I get a phone/email saying they cancel my reservations for another group and I have to come in at an earlier time which is very inconvenient!! So if you plan on coming here don't have your hopes too high on a day and time because they will change it if they want to. read more

Great value for money, you really do get full control of a 450hp racecar, with no pace car slowing you down, and no instructor alongside with dual controls. These guys tell you ahead of time that they want you to enjoy yourself and drive fast, and that is absolutely evident throughout. All the staff were incredibly friendly and provided you keep to their small number of safety rules, you will be able to go as fast as you can handle, and the spotters will STILL urge you on. The insurance deal is not really a heavy sales pitch, it's completely optional and all the staff do is mention some of the costs that are liable if you damage the car without insurance. I wouldn't have as much fun if I was exposed to a $38k repair bill so it's an easy decision for me - I'll take insurance every single time. If you want to push hard and take the car up to its limit, then it's the wisest thing to do. The cars don't have a huge surge of torque (it's true), but that's not really the point here, it's about taking the car through the corners with correct technique and fast speed. When they tell you they will do 19 second laps, they are 100% accurate and not sugar coating it. I took my car to mid 20 second laps and easily left a second on the track. Both times I've been the spotters have been great. Giving driving advice and helping you out (it borders on tuition even though that is never promised). For the price you pay, the return is fantastic. Recommended. read more

I have been to many different race tracks but this one is the WORST! First off they pressure you into buying the insurance, don't buy it! They are so strict on the rules it's almost impossible to crash unless your a complete idiot. They kicked everyone out except one person before our 20 laps were up because they are so strict on the rules. My girlfriend only got to go one lap and I only got to go 8 laps. The race suits are dirty and the spotters are kids that aren't experienced. This place would be awesome only if you have experienced people racing with you, or if you have the track to yourself. Go someplace else. read more

Bought this for my husband's 65th birthday (for both of us!). We've always been NASCAR fans, and man, was this ever cool! From the moment we got there, to walking back to the car to go home. EVERYONE on staff was super friendly and helpful. My husband was lapping all the rest of us on the track! He told me it was the most fun he'd ever had, and can't wait to be able to go back! The spotters were "spot on", too! His even had him back off and let the rest of us pass, so he could really get on it for his last couple laps! (I was a bit slower, to say the least). But by the end of the 20 laps, I was getting the hang of it. We both had a blast! Special shout out to Shea, Sallie, Sandy, and Blair! Thanks for the best day ever! read more

I've been here a few times now and each time has been a wonderful experience! Dave, the instructor, is very knowledgeable, but also engaging and super funny. Yvette, the front office manager, is a total sweetheart. I love the people here just as much as I've loved racing! I will definitely be back. read more

LA Racing - Arcades Near Me - Irwindale, California

If I knew what I know now, I never would have purchased a race pass through groupon. Not at any point during the groupon purchasing process, nor the registration with LA racing did they inform me of the $89 insurance sales pitch. First thing, I was greeted at the door by a salesman letting me know that the prior week some kid didn't purchase the $89 insurance package and crashed and totaled one of their vehicles. He proceeded to tell me that the father wrote a check on the spot for $50,000 and purchased the totaled vehicle as a memoir of the event. Not sure if this story is true but I think it is crazy. Even with the $89 insurance, there is a $2,500 deductible. I don't even have $2,500 let alone $50,000. Once we get into the training room, we are told how great the cars handle and that we will have trained professionals helping us out through headphones so not to worry about crashing the vehicles. However, after the insurance sales pitch, I was more than stressed out by the thought of the $2,500 deductible. We were told over and over how these were high performance vehicles and the slightest dent could cost hundreds to repair. I was the only girl in my group of four racers and of course I got stuck with the truck and not the "official" race cars. We started our warm up laps and immediately I was told to slow down to let the other racers space out on the track. After about 5 or 6 warm up laps, we started the 20-lap session. There is one spotter per two drivers. My "partner" driver was riding too high on the track, so our spotter spent a lot of time trying to get him down towards the middle. I am by no means a professional driver and I was unsure of how fast/slow to go after my initial instruction to slow down during the warm up laps. About mid-point through our 2nd lap the interruptions began, my spotter came in every lap and told me to lower my race car to the center so that I could be passed. This continued every lap or so until about my 10th lap, when he talked me through two laps and then went back to the other driver. He only chimed in to tell me to lower my car so I could be passed. It is impossible to get a good pace going when you are constantly being told to slow down and move down to the center so that other cars can pass you. We were told repeatedly that if we did not listen to the spotter's we would be removed from the race track immediately without a refund and we would not be able to return. Paired with a ridiculous $89 insurance coverage, my stress over the $2,500 deductible, my delegation to the truck and not the race car, the focus of the spotter on the other driver, and the constant instruction to slow down and move to the center so I could be passed made this experience only worth the still pictures of me in racing outfit. Based on my experience, I would not value this over $50 (including insurance) if I were stupid enough to purchase again. However, I am not that stupid to fall for the same ploy twice. read more

Agree with most of what's already been written here. This place is the definition of bait-and-switch. Paid $149 using a Living Social coupon. From the moment you arrive they terrify you into purchasing the $89 insurance, plus $99 if you want a dvd of your drive. At the end of day I wound up spending $230 total. I did both LA Racing and the Mario Andretti Driving Experience. Mario Andretti was way better for less money. -Paid $182 for Mario Andretti through Groupon, so it's actually CHEAPER than LA Racing once you factor in the lack of up sell. -At Mario Andretti you get to drive faster indy cars. -They actually tell you how fast you went, unlike LA Racing. -Did I mention it's actually less money for a better experience? Bottom line: skip LA Racing. There are better CHEAPER places out there. read more

I'm afraid I was disappointed with my experience there. 1. They give you the hard sell on the insurance at $89. Do not buy it. You don't really get a chance to go fast enough to crash the car. The insurance also has a $2500 deductible. Not worth it. 2. They may claim that the car is fully NASCAR stock, but it's speed is obviously limited. 3. They don't let you take a true racing line. They force you to stay in the center of the track the whole time. I was really excited to try this NASCAR racing, but I was ultimately disappointed. Go Kart is a much better experience, read more

I'm echoing most of the negative sentiments here. The whole operation is about selling you the insurance. Multiple people ask the drivers if they bought their insurance. It's as if you entered a high pressure time share presentation and they won't let you out until you buy. The hard sell insurance guy tells blatant lies. Anyone interested in purchasing the insurance should call him out for proof of what he's saying, for example, the ~10 people who crashed within the last 90 days. Ask to see proof of that. I wish I did when I was there. He also says the cars are "550+ HP at the wheels" - I talked to one of the mechanics after my run and he said the engine puts out around 450hp. I think most people mistake the loud sound these cars make for power - they are loud but they are not at all quick in my opinion. read more

Overall: A day later and I'm still riding a little high. Thank you yelp for lowering my expectations. PROS: We got there early (715 for 8 class) and were out by 1030. We were the second group to run. Definitely go early, but it didn't drag on like other reviews said. It was a cool day, no temperature problems. It was a thrilling experience. You can push the cars much much further than you think. 2 out of our party of three are avid race fans and spirited drivers. The third is a racecar driver. We were going HARD and not one of us got even the slightest bit loose. Wish I pushed it more! At least we blew the doors off the poor guy they put out there with us as the fourth. Didn't need the insurance, nor did anyone we see. They had a mount for a go pro camera inside the car. They didnt try to sell me the photo they took of me or the video, which I would have declined. Had a friend in the stands with a camera which is the way to go. Got some cool pics (albeit through a chain link fence) and some really good video. Guy helping me into the car was friendly. No need to tip anyone. Price point ($149 groupon) was appropriate. If you pay the $399 retail please try to laugh at yourself because I am. They provide all necessary gear. Nice continental breakfast provided. CONS: They REALLY push the insurance but don't fall for it. You won't need it and even if u did there is a $2500 deductible. It's a scam. If they used the insurance as often as they claim it would be underfunded. Try not to laugh when they tell you about the guy who totalled a car and cut a check for $20k that day and is paying $2500 a month...for those cars??? The cars aren't nascars. They aren't even nationwide cars. Maybe this type of car was what nascars looked like when Dale Earnhardt was my age (the senior not the douchy son who cant win a race)...it will sound and feel like one, but doesnt look nearly as cool as actual present day nascars. None of the cars were manual (even though they lie and say in the "school" that 2 of the four are manual). They are all automatic. One of the "cars" is actually a truck (like camping world series) but as they say correctly, it was one of the better if not the best performing vehicle. Your guests can sit in on the class but cant accompany you to your car. Your only hope of an in-car picture is the one they take (and sell to you) or taking one in the car they set up at the gear-up spot. However, if you are out on the track it wont be the same car... There was no merchandise I wanted to buy. T-shirts etc were unimpressive. The nascar stuff was extremely outdated. The short track limits the full-throttle time. In sum, I enjoyed it and dont regret making the groupon purchase, but if I had gone into it thinking Id be racing a nascar the way it is on TV Id be a little disappointed. read more

So I was a guest here twice before over the last few years with a good friend of mine and we had a pretty great time. They offer discounted re-race passes every time you go so I bought two more once again. I didn't realize they expired. Life and time go by and my friend that I do this with reminds me that I bought those two passes because he heard they are shutting the speedway down. So I call to verify and they inform me that the the 2 passes I purchased expired and my $200.00 is pretty much gone. I guess customer service goes out the door when you know you're shutting down. Exceptionally disappointed in their response and to know they're okay with jacking someone for $200.00. Be a aware of the details people. Even if they find a new local I will never go back and definitely steer anyone away that asks. read more