What is Mini Golf?

By Editorial Team

Updated: Oct 11, 2024

Views: 16.5k

Close up of a mini golf (or "putt putt") course with two golf balls on different holes of the course.

Mini golf, also known as miniature golf or putt-putt, is a scaled-down version of golf that focuses on the putting aspect of the game. It's played on courses with whimsical themes and creative obstacles, offering a fun and accessible experience for people of all ages and skill levels.

Rules and Scoring

The basic rules and scoring system of mini golf are straightforward:

Players take turns hitting their ball from the designated starting point of each hole.
The objective is to get the ball into the hole in the fewest number of strokes possible.
Each stroke counts as one point.
The player with the lowest total score at the end of all holes wins.
Most courses implement a maximum stroke limit per hole, usually 6 or 7, to keep the game moving.

How to Play Mini Golf

Choose your putter: Select a putter that reaches your waist or belt level for optimal control.
Hold the putter: Grip the putter with both hands, with your dominant hand lower on the shaft. Keep your grip relaxed but firm.
Position yourself: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing perpendicular to the target line.
Aim your shot: Look at the hole and any obstacles, then visualize the path you want the ball to take.
Hit the ball: Use a pendulum-like motion with your arms, keeping your wrists straight. Strike the ball gently but firmly with the center of the putter face.
Navigate obstacles: When faced with obstacles, consider using the walls or slopes to your advantage. Sometimes, a bank shot off a wall can be more effective than a direct approach.
Adjust your strategy: As you play, observe how the ball reacts to different surfaces and obstacles. Adjust your aim and power accordingly.
Keep score: Record the number of strokes for each hole on your scorecard provided by the course.

Remember, the key to mini golf is precision, not power. Take your time, have fun, and enjoy the unique challenges each hole presents!

Mini Golf vs. Regular Golf

While mini golf and regular golf share the same basic premise, they differ significantly in several aspects:

Course Size and Layout

Mini golf courses typically cover a few thousand square feet and can be indoors or outdoors. Holes are usually just a few yards long.

Regular golf courses span hundreds of acres and are always outdoors. Holes can be 200-300 yards or more.

Equipment

Mini golf requires only a putter, and the balls are less specific. In mini golf, the putter and balls are usually provided by the course with the cost of admission. Meanwhile, regular golf uses various clubs (drivers, irons, putters) and regulation golf balls.

Obstacles and Challenges

Mini golf features artificial, themed obstacles like windmills, tunnels, ramps, and loops. Regular golf incorporates natural hazards such as sand traps, water hazards, and trees.

Two men play mini golf on a brightly decorated mini golf course.

Difficulty Level and Accessibility

Mini golf is generally not physically demanding due to its simplified gameplay, shorter distances, and focus on putting skills. Therefore, it is accessible for all ages and skill levels, while still offering fun challenges via creative obstacles.

On the other hand, regular golf requires more physical prowess and technical expertise.

What Ages are Suitable for Mini Golf?

Mini golf is a versatile activity suitable for all age groups:

Children as young as 2-3 years old can enjoy mini golf with assistance.
Children around 5 years old can play more effectively as they develop better hand-eye coordination.
Older children, teenagers, adults, and seniors can all enjoy the game.

The simplicity of the rules and the fun, themed environments make mini golf an excellent activity for family outings, date nights, or social gatherings.

Planning Your Visit

Game Duration

Different mini golf courses will usually have either 9 or 18 holes to play. A typical 9-hole round played by a group of four players usually takes 30-45 minutes, while an 18-hole round usually takes 60-90 minutes.

Some factors that can affect this duration include:

Number of players
Skill level of the players
Complexity of the course

What to Wear

When planning your mini golf outing, you should usually wear comfortable and practical clothing. Casual or athletic attire is usually appropriate, but you should check the specific venue in case there are any dress codes to consider. Some mini golf courses are outdoors - if so, consider preparing for the weather with sunglasses, a cap, or maybe a light jacket.

Cost

Usually costing about $10 to $20 per person, mini golf is generally an affordable entertainment option. It is often a budget-friendly option compared to alternatives like go-kart racing, laser tag, or arcade games.

Tips for Better Play

To improve your mini golf game, consider these tips:

Observe the course layout before playing
Use proper form (feet shoulder-width apart, gentle grip)
Focus on precision over power
Analyze obstacles strategically
Practice regularly
Consider using indoor putting mats for home practice to improve skills

Competitive Mini Golf

For those interested in a more serious approach to mini golf, professional tournaments and leagues exist. The organizations include USPMGA, WMF, and AMA. The events include the USPMGA Master's, the World Adventure Golf Tour, and the Minigolf World Championships.

Conclusion: The Benefits of Mini Golf

Mini golf offers a unique combination of fun, challenges, and social interaction for all ages and skill levels. Its creative courses provide both entertainment and a chance to improve putting skills. Whether you're planning a family outing, a date, or a friendly competition, mini golf is an affordable option that creates lasting memories. Give it a try at your local course and experience the joy of this timeless pastime for yourself.

Golf Putting is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

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