Kid-Friendly Racing with Dad!
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity for Father’s Day in the Portland, Oregon area, then look no further than race cars! There are two great venues in the Portland suburbs that offer kid-friendly race car attractions. I’ve taken my family to both locations, and I’ve had positive experiences with each facility. In this article, I provide a side-by-side comparison of the two locations so you can choose the best Father’s Day experience for your family.
Malibu Raceway, A Thrilling Race Car Experience
Malibu is located along Highway 217 in Beaverton. Malibu Raceway offers 3 different race car types on a ½ mile course.
Quick Stats:
Location: 9405 SW Cascade Avenue , Beaverton (near Washington Square Mall )
Cost: varies depending upon number of laps purchased from $2.39 to $3.45 per lap
Attractions: race track , batting cages , indoor game room, food available
Website: yes
Malibu Raceway offers a more thrilling race car experience than Bullwinkle’s, but has fewer overall attractions. If your children are older and dad enjoys the fast pace, then this location will be the perfect Father’s Day experience.
Children greater than 4′ 6″ tall can drive the one-seater, Sprint race car. Children at least 14 years old can take a car control clinic and drive the sportier Grand Virage, two-seater car. Children 3′ 6″ tall can ride as a passenger with dad in the Grand Virage. Children less than 3′ 6″ tall cannot ride as a passenger in any of the cars at Malibu.
For the best deal, choose the 10 lap package on any car. This package brings the cost down to $2.39 per lap. In addition, Malibu frequently offers printable coupons on its website for free laps.
After racing, head indoors for pizza and soft drinks.
Bullwinkle’s Family Fun Center, An Exhilarating Go-Kart Experience
Bullwinkle’s is located just south of Portland along I-5 in Wilsonville, Bullwinkle’s offers 1 go-kart type on a fun course.
Quick Stats:
Location: 29111 SW Town Center Loop West in Wilsonville
Cost: go-karts are $7 per driver/$3 per passenger or buy a value package in various amounts
Attractions: go-karts, miniature golf , bumper boats , batting cages, rock wall, sky trail, indoor game room, food available
Website: yes
Bullwinkle’s offers a gentler go-kart racing experience than Malibu Raceway. However, this location offers more attractions and may be the perfect choice for younger families or for dads that want to experience multiple outdoor attractions on Father’s Day. If you choose to ride the bumper boats, you will get wet so be sure to pack extra clothes, if needed.
The go-karts at Bullwinkle’s are a great option for younger children. Passengers do need to be 3 years or older to ride, and drivers must be 18 years or older. Dad can take a spin in the go-kart with each child for a special Father’s Day treat. Afterwards, the entire family can play a round of miniature golf or choose from a variety of meal options at the restaurant. For the best deal, choose an extreme all-day pass. The pass costs $33 for those 58″ or taller and $28 for those under 57″. This pass will give dad the opportunity to race the go-karts with each child as well as participating in many other attractions for one price.