Ready, Set, Go! Science of Speed Set to Race into Kamin Science Center on Aug. 1 New Immersive Experience is Powered by Lenovo and will Put Visitors in the Driver’s Seat with Racing, Science, and High-Energy Fun

 

H Kamin Science Center today announced new details and shared a behind-the-scenes look at Science of Speed, Powered by Lenovo, a new immersive experience that combines high-performance racing, science, and adrenaline-pumping fun in a unique setting. Set to open on Aug. 1, 2026, the 21,000-square-foot experience housed in the former SportsWorks building features four signature attractions: a multi-level, all-electric kart track; high-end racing simulators; vintage and modern race cars along with interactive science exhibits; and a racing-inspired lounge known as the “Pitt Stop.” The new Science of Speed experience marks a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of Kamin Science Center – Pittsburgh’s most visited museum and recently ranked the #3 Best Science Museum in the nation by USA Today. One of the four Carnegie Museums, the Science Center unveiled its new brand in September 2025 following a transformational $65 million gift from Dan and Carole Kamin and their family. A key component of the rebrand was the announcement of nine new projects and experiences over the next few years that will update more than 75% of the Science Center’s exhibition spaces and reimagine the future of the museum. “Science of Speed is the kind of bold, immersive experience that defines the new era of Kamin Science Center,” said Jason Brown, Henry Buhl, Jr., director of Kamin Science Center and vice president of Carnegie Museums. “We’re creating a dynamic educational and entertainment destination – one where sports and science converge, and where the human drive to go faster becomes a gateway to learning. It’s a museum experience unlike anywhere else in the country.” Four Core Experiences Science of Speed includes four signature experiences: Multi-Level, All-Electric Racetrack: Visitors will race through a multi-level, all-electric kart track with elevation changes, hairpin turns, and head-to-head competition – all while experiencing the science behind energy transfer, traction, drag, and human response time.   Racing Simulators: The experience continues with a series of five fully immersive racing simulators: one dedicated Formula 1 simulator along with four others that are interconnected so visitors can race solo or go head-to-head. Each responsive experience turns lessons about external forces, control, and decision-making into a visceral, real-time test of speed and skill.   Race Cars & STEM Exhibits: Hands-on exhibits dive into the science and technology behind modern racing – the forces that create speed and the engineering that delivers control. The exhibits extend beyond racing with themes such as teamwork, aerodynamics, and safety. Featured artifacts include: A bright yellow 1959 race car known as “Ol’ Yaller” that was built by California hot rod legend Max Balchowsky An orange Audi R8 with an engine that has been “exploded” to illustrate the inner workings of an internal combustion engine Numerous items donated by Lenovo, including a signed racing suit from reigning MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez, a Ducati racing motorcycle, and racing helmets   “Pitt Stop” Lounge: A racing-inspired lounge offering a variety of light bites, craft cocktails, and local beers on tap to relax, refuel, and celebrate a track victory.   Day and Night Fun Science of Speed shifts gears throughout the day, offering fun educational experiences for families and first-time racers during regular museum hours as well as evening racing hours designed for adults and more experienced drivers ready to put the pedal to the metal. After dark, Science of Speed will transform into one of Pittsburgh’s most electric nighttime destinations – combining racing, entertainment, food, drinks, and social energy in a fully immersive environment. A New Chapter for Kamin Science Center The launch of Science of Speed reflects the momentum gained from the recent announcement of “ALL TOGETHER: A Campaign for Carnegie Museums,” a comprehensive initiative focused on expanding how all four Carnegie Museums will connect with the community and each other for generations to come. “When it opens this summer, Science of Speed will once again display the extraordinary innovative spirit of Kamin Science Center and its unparalleled power to ignite curiosity,” said Steven Knapp, president and CEO of Carnegie Museums. “At the Science Center and across all four Carnegie Museums, we constantly seek new ways to engage our visitors with fresh opportunities to experience and learn.” Science of Speed is powered by Lenovo, whose leadership in technology and involvement in high-performance industries – including on-going partnerships with major international racing leagues – align perfectly with the experience’s focus on precision, engineering, innovation, and speed. The Science of Speed project – and Lenovo’s sponsorship – are part of Carnegie Museums’ “ALL TOGETHER” campaign, which is helping to bring new experiences to life. “Lenovo is proud to support Kamin Science Center and Science of Speed, which reflects our shared belief that the best way to understand technology is to experience it,” said Milo Speranzo, Chief Marketing Officer, Lenovo North America. “This partnership brings the science behind speed to life in a way people can actually feel and will help inspire the next generation of learners through immersive STEM experiences.” Additional details about Science of Speed ticketing, public programs, private event offerings, and opening celebrations will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit TheScienceOfSpeed.org.     Carnegie Science Center is now Kamin Science Center. New name, same incredible mission: to Ignite Your Curiosity. About the Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin Science Center Kamin Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination and the region’s most visited museum, reaching more than 500,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes, and off-site education programs.   Accessibility: Features for All Kamin Science Center welcomes all visitors. We work to assist visitors with disabilities in obtaining reasonable and appropriate accommodations, and in supporting equal access to services, programs, and activities. We welcome visitors in wheelchairs on the deck of our USS Requin (SS 481) submarine. Below-deck visits require full mobility. Hearing assistance devices are available for the Rangos Giant Cinema. Please ask when you buy your ticket.   Please note that requests for accommodations should be made at least two weeks prior to your visit. For specific questions about wheelchairs, strollers, or other programmatic or equipment needs, see the ticket counter located on the first floor of the main building or contact the Operations Department at 412.237.3400 or Accessibility@KaminScienceCenter.org.   About Carnegie Museums     Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1895, Carnegie Museums is a family of four dynamic, distinctive museums: Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Kamin Science Center, and The Andy Warhol Museum. The museums reach 1.5 million people a year through exhibitions, educational programs, outreach activities, and special events. ###