America’s Most Interesting Mini-Golf Courses
Mini-golf is one of America’s treasured summer activities. It’s suitable for all ages, and some mini-golf courses have unique themes that can transport you to a different time, place, or even dimension! One of these seven top-rated courses across the US should be on your next vacation itinerary.
Around The World Miniature Golf
Lake George, NY
Designed by Lake George local Harry Horn, this rustic eighteen-hole mini-golf course was inspired by Horn’s global travels and the unique souvenirs he brought home. Famous landmarks adorn the course, giving visitors a feeling of traveling to different countries at each hole. You can expect to see the Taj Mahal, a giant sombrero, a life-sized lobster, and a replica of the New York City subway. On select Thursday evenings, you can scout a location on the course to gaze at the town’s weekly fireworks display.
Molten Mountain Miniature Golf
North Myrtle Beach, SC
Come see the enchanted, lush tropical isle of Molten Mountain that leads you through a journey of eighteen holes into the center of an active volcano. Every thirty minutes, the Molten Mountain Volcano erupts in a ground-shaking special-effects show you won’t want to miss. You can also play your way through the volcano village’s lakes and artifacts. This course is accessible and kid-friendly, so the whole family can join in on the fun. But be ready for trouble to strike if you opt into the exclusive Pele’s Revenge Mischief Spinner package—each player spins a wheel before their first shot at each hole and follows the instructions they land on. You might be able to move an opponent’s ball, add an obstacle, or other fun shake-ups!
Crave Golf Club
Pigeon Forge, TN
Get your sugar fix at Crave Golf Club, a sweet tooth’s dream! This club has two nineteen-hole courses and is located in a quaint Tennessee town. Stop by its conveniently located snack shack and ice-cream shop if the bright, candy-themed decor is giving you a craving for your favorite sweets. After golfing, if you’re still on a sugar high, try the two thirty-minute escape room experiences!
Par-King Skill Golf
Lincolnshire, IL
The founders of Par-King began their miniature golf business in the 1950s with a different course called George’s Gorgeous Golfing Garden, based in Morton, Illinois. Par-King opened in 1977, and has expanded to include two eighteen-hole courses, nineteen moving obstacles, and seven water features. The courses continue to lure tourists and locals alike. Take a stroll through their life-sized castle, and try your hand at the infamous “super looper” rollercoaster hole that sends your golf ball on a wild track with turns and flips.
Shoot for the Stars Mini-Golf
Branson, MO
At Shoot for the Stars, everyone has a chance at fame! This Hollywood-themed eighteen-hole course features plenty of palm trees, parties, and paparazzi. Even though you’re in Missouri, you’ll get to see landmarks like Grauman’s Chinese Theater, Capitol Records, and the Hollywood Bowl. Along the way you’ll meet your hairdresser, limo driver, and movie director, who will get you ready to arrive at a special VIP red-carpet event at the end of the course.
KISS by Monster Mini Golf
Las Vegas, NV
Vegas, baby! This massive KISS-themed attraction inside the Rio Hotel boasts an impressive eighteen-hole miniature golf course filled with unique band memorabilia and glow-in-the-dark odes to rock and roll. The attraction also has arcade games, a gift shop, a KISS museum, and, in true Las Vegas fashion, a rock and roll wedding chapel. Book a time to play while the DJ is there spinning KISS classics and hosting trivia and other contests for rock stars of all ages.
Urban Putt
San Francisco, CA
Rainy days are no problem at Urban Putt, San Francisco’s well-known indoor mini-golf course. Located inside an old Victorian-era building filled with mesmerizing industrial designs, Urban Putt is an upscale miniature golf experience complete with a full-service restaurant. You can enjoy your food and drinks on the course for a fun night out with friends and family. The high-tech fourteen-hole course has fun features, such as neon lights, a spaceship tunnel, and a whimsical skee-ball hole.