Science Meets Speed: Kamin Science Center Unveils Pittsburgh’s Newest STEM Adventure

PITTSBURGH — Buckle up, Pittsburgh. A new hands-on experience is bringing science, technology, and the thrill of racing together under one roof.

Beginning Saturday, Aug. 1, Kamin Science Center will open Science of Speed, Powered by Lenovo — a 21,000-square-foot STEM attraction transforming the former SportsWorks building into an interactive destination where visitors can experience the science behind speed.

This isn’t a traditional museum exhibit where visitors simply read about physics and engineering — they will feel it.

Guests can race all-electric karts on a multi-level indoor track, test their skills on professional-style racing simulators, and explore how technology, data, engineering, and human performance influence every turn, acceleration, and split-second decision.

“Science of Speed is where education and entertainment converge. Instead of simply reading about physics or engineering, visitors will feel the forces acting on a race car, make split-second decisions behind the wheel, and immediately connect those moments to the technology and STEM concepts that power today’s fastest vehicles.”— Jason Brown, Henry Buhl, Jr., Director of Kamin Science Center & VP, Carnegie Museums

A New Kind of Science Experience on Pittsburgh’s North Shore

Designed for families, students, racing enthusiasts, corporate groups, and adults looking for a unique night out, Science of Speed combines the excitement of motorsports with real-world STEM education.

Multi-Level Electric Kart Track

The centerpiece attraction features high-performance electric karts racing through elevation changes, hairpin turns, and competitive challenges. Along the way, racers learn about aerodynamics, traction, momentum, energy transfer, and reaction time.

The multi-level electric kart track is the centerpiece of Science of Speed at Kamin Science Center.

Professional-Level Racing Simulators

The experience includes five state-of-the-art simulators, including the WAVE Italy Formula 1 Motion Simulator — the only simulator of its kind in Western Pennsylvania. Four interconnected SimGear racing simulators allow visitors to experience the strategy and precision required in professional motorsports.

The WAVE Italy Formula 1 Motion Simulator is the only one of its kind in Western Pennsylvania.

Four interconnected SimGear racing simulators bring the strategy of professional motorsports to life.

Where Racing Meets Science

Interactive exhibits explore the technology behind speed, including engineering design, materials science, data analytics, electric vehicle innovation, and human performance. Featured artifacts include the legendary 1959 race car Ol’ Yaller, an exploded-engine Audi R8, a Ducati racing motorcycle, and a signed racing suit from MotoGP World Champion Marc Márquez.

Opening Day Celebration — Saturday, Aug. 1

Science of Speed officially opens Saturday, Aug. 1, with activities throughout the day. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., visitors can meet Pittsburgh sports mascots including the Pirates’ Pirate Parrot and Pierogies, the Penguins’ Iceburgh, the Riverhounds’ AMO, and the Riveters’ Nellie. The celebration also includes giveaways, music, and a DJ throughout the day.

From Family STEM Learning to Adult Nightlife

During regular museum hours, families can experience Science of Speed as part of their visit to Kamin Science Center (daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.). But when the sun goes down, Science of Speed shifts gears.

Thursday through Saturday evenings from 5–11 p.m., the attraction becomes an adults-only entertainment destination for visitors ages 18 and older. Guests can race at speeds up to 45 mph, enjoy food, drinks, craft cocktails, local beers, and socialize in the new Pit Stop Lounge overlooking the track. General admission to Kamin Science Center is not required for evening access.

Technology Driving the Future

Powered by Lenovo, Science of Speed highlights how technology is changing transportation and innovation. Visitors will explore how electric vehicles, real-time data analytics, and engineering breakthroughs developed for racing influence everyday technology.

“Technology is most powerful when it inspires people to imagine what’s possible. Science of Speed brings engineering, innovation, and STEM learning to life in a way that’s immersive, accessible, and fun for learners of all ages.”— Jennifer Lowell, Head of Sponsorships, Lenovo North America

Part of a $65 Million Transformation

Science of Speed marks another major step in Kamin Science Center’s transformation following its 2025 rebrand. The project is supported by a historic $65 million gift from Dan and Carole Kamin and their family, helping fund upgrades to more than 75% of the Science Center’s exhibition spaces by the end of 2027.

Recently ranked the No. 3 science museum in the nation by USA Today, Kamin Science Center welcomes more than 500,000 visitors annually. With Science of Speed, the museum is hoping to attract a new generation of scientists, engineers, innovators — and racing fans.

For more information, visit TheScienceOfSpeed.org.