Although biologists often dispute the evolutionary need for speed, the halls of academia are no place for an argument-ending go-kart race, due to their awkward corners and dangerously slick tile floors. Settle the score with today's Groupon: for $25, you get four 8-minute go-kart races (a $55 value), an annual license (a $25 value), and a protective disposable head sock (a $1 value) from Melrose Park Indoor Grand Prix in Melrose Park (an $81 total value).

Located in a new 130,000-square-foot facility, the Melrose Park Indoor Grand Prix forms a roofed-in go-kart haven, challenging even the most skillful racers and ardent Ridge Racer fans. At speeds of up to 42 mph, each race lasts about eight minutes, giving spectators just enough time to hard-boil an egg and lob it at the winner in celebration. The road course offers a different experience for kart pilots, and the facility also houses a café and game room where spectators can grab a bite and hit the arcade or pool table to keep eyes busy when not watching a race. Additionally, Grand Prix features eco-conscious, propane-powered 9 hp go-karts, meaning no noxious exhaust fumes or pollution sweats to slick up drivers' hands.