Go-Karts, the Next Generation

Unless you drive a Mini, it's probably been a while since you've experienced the unadulterated joy of speeding along a hot stretch of asphalt, swerving around cars in a ridiculously undersized vehicle. Go-karts were responsible for some of our biggest adrenaline rushes as children -- and, unlike the Oozinator, we haven't outgrown them.

These days, we get our juvenile speed-fix at Velocity 17, an entertainment megaplex featuring the best kart-racing in the Tri-State area. V-17's karts are equipped with top-of-the-line electric motors, a major upgrade from the fume-spewing gas engines we smelled back in the day. Plus, the facility's "European style" course is one of the longest in the world, and features more tight curves than a Mad Men secretary.

In case driving like a maniac isn't your speed, V-17 features virtual auto racing and a brand-new 4,000-square-foot laser tag arena. Just remember to pace yourself -- your inner child may not be able to handle so much awesomeness at once.

Visit the V-17 Website to call shotgun and get further details; V-17 is in Maywood, NJ, roughly 45 minutes from Manhattan; Get directions here.