When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Speedway
Why Speedway is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Speedway offers a versatile environment combining the convenience of a gas station and convenience store chain with an exciting venue for indoor karting, located in Speedway, Indiana. The business serves as a convenient meet-up spot for friends who are looking to refuel both their vehicles and their social energy. For those wanting more than standard refueling, Speedway Indoor Karting provides a professionally run indoor racing facility featuring gas-powered go-karts, making it a thrilling place to challenge friends and enjoy competitive fun. Located just minutes away from the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this venue benefits from proximity to a hub of motorsport culture, enhancing the thematic experience for visitors interested in racing and automotive enthusiasm. Nearby, guests can also find a variety of dining options, including steakhouses, pizza places, and casual diners, facilitating a full day outing of food, fun, and socializing. The mix of practical services and recreational activities at Speedway makes it a compelling destination for groups seeking a casual and active venue to meet up. These elements collectively make Speedway more than just a fuel stop; it is an engaging social spot for diverse groups of friends looking to meet in a relaxed yet entertaining setting.
Here's what people think of Speedway
As of recent, Speedway holds a 3.6-star rating based on 137 reviews.
User reviews of Speedway reveal a mixed reception. On one hand, positive feedback highlights Speedway's role as a reliable venue for indoor karting enthusiasts, with professional organization and an exciting atmosphere being key attractions. Reviewers appreciate the unique combination of a gas station brand with recreational facilities, noting it as a convenient gathering place near well-known landmarks like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. However, negative reviews predominantly focus on declining service quality at the gas station locations, including frequent pump malfunctions and inconsistent customer service experiences. Some customers have reported issues such as incorrect charges and difficulties resolving disputes with customer support, leading to frustration. Additionally, there are instances of unsatisfactory staff behavior reported, which detracts from the overall experience. Employee reviews also suggest challenges in work-life balance, pay, and management, contributing to a perception of systemic issues within the company. In summary, while Speedway offers valuable entertainment through its indoor karting and practical conveniences, customer experiences at the fuel and store locations vary greatly, impacting its overall reputation. Potential visitors should weigh the exciting recreational offerings against reported service inconsistencies when considering Speedway for their meet-up plans.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dani Hoover
This is a GREAT location!! Excellent service, quality products! Friendly and fast staff too! My favorite thing to get from here, aside from coffee, is the veggie sub from their cafe! Yes, gas stations can have good food too! PS, they have a lot of choices for sauces. If anyone was wondering why I was playing with the sauce packets, this was whyđđ¤Ł
Houston Hemphill
Iâve been going here for years and today, Friday morning, 05/09/24, I had the most unpleasant experience at my local Speedway. I went in to deposit some cash to my card and because Iâm black and came in with a few $100s I was met with resistance. The cashier helping me walked off multiple times with my money without saying anything. While she was at the registers whispering to the clerk next to her. I heard them say something about asking âherâ, referring to me, if I had a cash marker. My discomfort was already growing and *who carries one of those on around with them anyway*. So eventually she brings a male cashier to the registers and heâs exclaiming of course when we donât have any markers. Showing irritation toward me and the situation. So I have to ask whatâs going on after my money has taken a field trip of the store with no explanation. Finally Iâm told nothing is saying my hundred dollar bill isnât real, referring to the machine they ran it through 10+ times and the magical light above them they kept lifting it up to to check it, but it feels oily to them. So I let them know it was money from graduation. To which Iâm met with the remark/rhetorical question, from the male, âwho do I know who gives hundreds for graduation.â My mother now being on the phone, because at this point Iâm in shock of how Iâm being treated especially after being a patron here the last 2-3 years, let them know Iâm blessed and have amazing people in my life. I then took back my oily $100 and replaced it with another I had in my bag. Then the original cashier told me it was a good think it happened there and not when I was trying to get a purse I really wanted. I felt this was a throw away comment to try to smooth things over. But I was already beyond uncomfortable and in disbelief at the snide remarks and funny looks Iâd gotten. So yes I do have people in my life who recognized the handwork I put into my degree. Iâm truly thankful for those who supported me after my graduation and Iâm happy I have supporters who can afford to send me a few hundred. Iâm a proud U of M College of Engineering Alumna and a simple congratulations wouldâve sufficed either at the register or after when you proceeded to follow me around the gas station as I searched for a makeshift breakfast. I really hope this experience can be a learning lesson for all of us involved and I can continue to go to my local speedway with more receptivity and authenticity from the staff.
Nessa
I had a horrible experience with Robin at 7pm 7/18/25. I used the self checkout and it did not provide a receipt. The receipt box was blinking, so I asked her if it was out of paper. She replied âdid you hit the receipt buttonâ? I said âno, I didnât know there was a button to hit.â She did a DRAMATIC, LOUD sigh and walked back over to the register to help another customer. She did not help me reprint my receipt, and her response was unacceptable. This is ANN ARBOR, that is NOT how we behave out here! I rarely have negative experiences at this store, this was truly a first!
Gabriel M
I know this is just a gas station. How much can you really write about a gas station? Well, I decided to leave a review because the people who work here are just awesome! They are very responsive, very kind and polite, and just really nice. Speedway must be taking good care of their employees because they all seem to like their job, which in turn means they treat customers well. I have witnessed the employees here do some random acts of kindness. One time, I came in the store with my kids, and an employee gave them a free golden slushy cup (she said it was the last one so she wanted to just give it away). It came with a free slushy fill. :) Another time, I saw an employee rush to the door to open it for a person coming in with a walker. Another time, an employee said some really kind words to my kids. When a business has a good vibe, and the employees shine, it makes you want to keep coming back. This is that kind of business.
xavier gonzales
Terrible experience. Their card systems go down so itâs cash only- I stroll in on E and luckily keep a $100 bill on me for emergencies. So I go to pay and the cashier tells me she dropped all her change and has no money for change while theyâre CASV ONLY. How dumb.
How to reach Speedway
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Why Speedway may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Speedway with your friends? If you and your friends are seeking a casual and convenient spot to gather, Speedway could be a practical choice. As a well-known chain of gas stations and convenience stores, Speedway offers easy access for quick meetups, especially for groups on the move or those wanting a simple stopover. The appeal lies in its wide availability and the ability to fuel not only your vehicles but also your appetite, thanks to a variety of grab-and-go snacks, beverages, and some food options. This setup makes it appealing for spontaneous or planned meetups where the focus is on convenience and accessibility rather than elaborate entertainment. The familiarity of a nationwide brand can provide a consistent environment for groups across different locations, contributing to a sense of comfort. Although Speedway is primarily known as a gas station, its role as a community pit stop allows friends and family to rally, refuelâboth their cars and themselvesâand continue their journeys together, making it a practical if modest venue for group meetup activities.
What activities can you enjoy at Speedway that make it perfect for a group meetup? Speedway might not be a traditional entertainment venue, but it offers several activities suited for casual socializing. First, fueling vehicles simultaneously can be a team effort, turning a mundane task into an opportunity for group interaction. Second, Speedwayâs convenience stores typically stock an array of snacks, coffee, and drinks, which can become focal points for sharing and enjoying treats together. Third, many Speedway locations have seating or designated areas outside where groups can hang out briefly before heading out. Fourth, some Speedways offer lottery tickets and other small games that can add a playful competitive edge among friends. Lastly, the availability of clean restrooms and facilities makes it a reliable meetup spot during road trips or longer outings, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and refreshed. This combination of practical amenities and casual social opportunities can help transform a simple gas station visit into an informal yet pleasant group activity.
How does Speedwayâs convenience contribute to group meetups? The convenience factor is one of Speedwayâs strongest selling points for those planning group meetings. Located across many cities and often near major roads, Speedway offers easy accessibility for everyone in a group, including those arriving from different directions. The extended operating hours at most locations mean groups can meet early or late without worrying about closing times disrupting plans. Additionally, Speedwayâs diverse payment methods, including mobile pay and loyalty programs, add a layer of efficiency to group transactions, reducing wait times. The presence of fuel pumps alongside quick-stop conveniences makes it a one-stop hub where multiple needsârefueling cars, grabbing food, and rest breaksâare met with minimal hassle, perfectly suiting the rhythm of a friend or family meetup during travel or casual neighborhood gatherings.
Why might Speedway not be ideal for all group meetups? While Speedway offers convenience and practical amenities, it is not designed as a social venue with dedicated entertainment or leisure facilities. Reviews suggest that experiences at some Speedway locations might be inconsistent, with customer service issues reported, which could impact the overall meetup experience if service is rude or inattentive. The ambiance at gas stations is generally utilitarian, lacking the atmosphere of cafes or restaurants that invite longer stays and socializing. Noise from traffic and pumps might detract from the quality of conversation and group interaction. Additionally, limited seating options mean groups might need to stand or linger in less comfortable areas. Groups looking for a venue emphasizing hospitality, ambiance, or recreational facilities might find Speedway inadequate for extended social gatherings, but it remains a viable, no-frills option for quick stops and practical meetups.
How can Speedway be used strategically for meetups during travel or road trips? Speedwayâs network of locations makes it an excellent strategic stop for friends or family traveling together or converging from different places. Planning meetups at Speedway can provide a reliable waypoint to synchronize arrival times without complicated reservations or expectations. The availability of fuel ensures that vehicles are ready to continue long journeys, while the convenience store can supply snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized on the road. This utility-centric approach also benefits groups with different schedules, as members can arrive independently but still meet up at a familiar spot that remains open late or early. For travel groups, Speedway can serve as a practical rally point before embarking on the next leg of a trip, providing essential services in a friendly, if basic, environment.
What makes Speedway a convenient choice for family meetups? Families often need quick stops that cater to the logistical needs of multiple people, and Speedway fits this niche by offering restrooms, snacks appealing to children and adults alike, and fuel services. Families can pick up essentials and refreshments in one place. For families with different vehicle types, Speedwayâs fuel grade options accommodate varied needs. The predictable and functional layout reduces stress during meetups by providing familiar services and easy in-and-out access, which is particularly helpful when coordinating with kids or elderly relatives. While it may not replace a park or family restaurant for long social engagements, Speedway is a smart pit stop choice for brief family gatherings that combine utility with basic comfort and refreshment.
How do customers generally perceive Speedway's service and atmosphere for group visits? Customer feedback on Speedwayâs service and atmosphere appears mixed, with some citing challenges such as rude staff or operational inefficiencies at certain locations. Negative reviews hint at rude customer service and occasional transaction issues, which could affect group experiences negatively if not managed properly. However, positive experiences often come from the speed and convenience of service rather than hospitality or ambiance. This feedback suggests that while Speedway is generally well-regarded for what it providesâconvenience, fuel, and quick snacksâit may not be the most welcoming or engaging environment for group meetups seeking attentive service or a sociable atmosphere. Groups should consider this variability when planning meetups, perhaps aiming for daytime visits when staff and service tend to be more reliable.
What amenities can groups expect at a typical Speedway location? Typical Speedway locations are equipped with multiple fuel pumps, a convenience store stocked with snacks, beverages, and essential travel items, and usually restrooms that are essential for group comfort. Many stores feature coffee stations and sometimes fresh food options like sandwiches and baked goods, which can cater to the casual dining needs of a meetup group. The lighting and parking areas are usually sufficient for safety and practicality, and some locations may have small outdoor seating areas or islands where groups can briefly congregate outside. While not a social hub, Speedwayâs amenities support the minimal needs of groups on the go, balancing accessibility with functionality.
Can Speedway be recommended for hosting gatherings beyond quick stops? Speedway is generally best suited for quick meetups rather than hosting extended gatherings or events. The nature of the business as a gas station convenience store means there is limited space, few comfort amenities, and minimal services oriented toward prolonged socializing. For groups seeking a place to relax, celebrate, or conduct activities beyond short stays, a dedicated venue such as a restaurant, cafe, park, or event space is likely more appropriate. Nonetheless, Speedway serves as a valuable stopover spot for groups needing efficient service, refueling, and quick refreshments, ideally complementing longer social plans elsewhere.
In summary, Speedway provides a practical, no-frills location for group meetups where the priorities are convenience, quick fuel and snack access, and easy coordination during travel or casual outings. While it is not designed for hospitality or leisure, its widespread presence, extended hours, and essential amenities make it a reliable rallying spot for friends and families on the go who value utility and accessibility. Groups looking for more comprehensive social experiences should consider additional venues, but for quick shows of togetherness in transit, Speedway is a dependable option.