Updated August 2026
AD – Gifted. Looking for something totally different and adrenaline-pumping in Manchester? Chaos Karts Manchester, located at the Arcade Arena is your chance to race in a real-life Mario Kart game.
I recently had the chance to try these fun go karts in Manchester with my family (all of us over 16) and let me tell you, IT IS AWESOME!
If you’re after a fun and competitive day out with a dash of nostalgia, this is the experience for you. Here’s everything you need to know before booking.
What is the Chaos Karts Experience?
Chaos Karts is an immersive, augmented reality (AR) go karting experience in Manchester, where you race real electric karts around a track, picking up virtual power-ups and blasting your opponents.
It’s a blend of gaming and racing and trust me, it’s even better than it sounds. You’re not just driving, you’re interacting with a game projected all around you – think Mario Kart meets real life! It’s awesome!
The whole experience is set up at Arcade Arena on Lower Byrom Street in Manchester. It’s ideal for families, friends or anyone wanting to relive childhood gaming moments with a competitive twist.
Tip: You cannot have your phone on you, due to the nature of the game (and I definitely needed to play!). Spectators can stand on the podium to capture game footage of you and your team.
How Does the Go Karting Experience at Chaos Karts Work?
Once you’re settled into your electric kart, you race around the track, dodging obstacles and firing virtual missiles at your competitors. The AR track projects onto the floor, so the game comes to life as you navigate tight corners and obstacles.
The power-ups are a huge part of the fun – you can collect speed boosts, shields and even missiles to slow down other players. I’ll admit, I wasn’t the fastest on the track (I came last overall!), but I made up for it by having a shockingly bad aim.
In fact, I proudly won the Peacemaker Award by having the worst shots! It’s not about hitting the targets, it’s about the fun of the game, as I proved by making everyone laugh with my attempts at virtual “weaponry.”
By the end of the session, I was definitely the least successful player in terms of shots, but it was all in good fun!
Is Chaos Karts in Manchester Suitable for Families?
Yes, and that’s what makes Chaos Karts so great. Even though it’s perfect for teens and adults, it’s also accessible for younger gamers (minimum age 11).
Chaos Karts is easily one of our favourite things to do in Manchester with teenagers. Our full guide also includes immersive gaming, live music, football attractions, free places to visit and more ideas that older children might actually approve of.
The track is safe, with built-in anti-collision technology to ensure players can go full throttle without worrying about bumping into each other. Your go kart simply slows down if you drive off the track.
The best part? It’s for all skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned racer or a complete newbie, you’ll have a blast.
What Are the Go Kart Tracks Like?
The track itself is neon-lit and features a mix of tight corners, straightaways and virtual obstacles that pop up. The track evolves as you race, opening up through virtual doors and creating a tunnel-like effect for added immersion.
There’s also a lot of strategy involved because, while speed matters, timing your power-ups is key to getting ahead. I have lived and learned!
One round, I was desperate to catch up with the leaders, so I dashed for a fruit bonus that would give me extra points, but I blinked and it vanished right in front of me. Classic! You’ve got to stay alert because the track is constantly changing, and power-ups disappear quickly.
I did however manage to win one of the 8 rounds played, somehow gaining several hundred points in the last few seconds! I’m not sure how, but I took it!
How Much Does Chaos Karts Cost And How Do You Book?
A typical standard session costs from £26.50 per player for around 20 minutes of actual racing time spread over a few rounds. Discounted family tickets are available, alongside VIP tickets that include a meal and drink.
Total time spent at the venue is about 45 – 60 minutes, including a short safety briefing before racing commences.
I would suggest booking in advance, especially on weekends. Sessions (from 5pm – 10pm daily) fill up quickly, so if you’re planning on going with a group, get your date and time booked in quickly!
For more information or to book your next adventure in the neon-lit world of go-karting in Manchester, visit the official website.
Where Is Chaos Karts in Manchester and How Accessible Is It?
Chaos Karts is conveniently located at Arcade Arena, Lower Byrom Street, Manchester, just a short walk from the Science and Industry Museum (on the same road) and Deansgate.
- Public Transport: The Deansgate Metrolink stop is a 10-minute walk away and Deansgate Railway Station is around 15 minutes by foot.
- Parking: There is no on-site parking, but there are NCP car parks nearby, such as Spinningfields and Great Northern (both around 5 minutes walk). Or the Duke Street car park, where we parked, under the arches.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible with flat entrances and viewing areas.
- Restaurants near Arcade Arena: I can thoroughly recommend Caravan Restaurant Manchester (6 Goods Yard St) – just carry on walking down from Arcade Arena. Though Flat Iron, just a 5 minute walk onto Deansgate is equally as tasty.
What to Wear for the Go Karting Experience?
Comfort is key, so wear trainers or comfortable shoes. You’ll want to be able to move quickly, as the race requires lots of sharp turns and rapid acceleration. Pro tip: Avoid brand-new trainers, the track is a bit scuff-prone!
Also, tie up your hair (if it’s long) and feel free to dress casually. There’s no need for special gear, though you’ll probably want to snap a photo afterward to show off your **victory (or in my case, Peacemaker status)!
On-site Facilities At The Arcade Arena
There’s a small café at the venue where you can grab soft drinks or snacks, plus some merchandise if you’re after a souvenir. Remember, this is the home of the PAC-MAN Live Experience Manchester too, which we recently reviewed. So expect PAC-MAN souvenirs too!
Free lockers are available to store your belongings while you race and there’s a viewing area for spectators to cheer you on.
You can also grab some food an drink from the small on-site, with places to sit in the reception waiting area and bathrooms are to hand.
What is the Atmosphere Like?
The vibe is competitive and high-energy, with everyone fully immersed in the experience. The track is filled with neon lights, loud music and excited shouts.
The staff are incredibly enthusiastic, making sure everyone is hyped and having a good time. Plus, there’s an MC who announces your name and your achievements as you race, giving it that game-show feel. So choose your race name wisely!
For me, the most fun came from the unpredictable moments, like when my kart randomly gave me a speed boost just as I was about to be passed or when I finally managed to hit one of my family members with a missile (don’t worry, they were expecting it!).
Is Chaos Karts Manchester Worth The Price?
Yes, definitely!
If you’re looking for totally unique, high-energy, but seriously fun go-karting in Manchester, Chaos Karts is a must-try. The combination of competitive spirit, nostalgia and new tech makes it an experience worth every penny.
Would I go again? Absolutely. In fact, I’m already planning a rematch now that I know I can hit more targets next time. Chaos Karts is fast, hilarious and full of laughter and it really is one of the best activities I’ve done in Manchester.
Top tip: Book ahead, wear comfortable clothes and don’t forget to bring your competitive spirit!
