If you ask us, the best summers include a few laps or cannon balls in the pool, a visit to the local ice cream stand, at least one outdoor movie and – of course – a game of mini golf as a family. If you’re eager to challenge the kiddos and experience a new course, we highly recommend the following 10 locations. They’re packed with rock waterfalls, pirate ships, animal statues and even dinosaurs.
We also suggest going early in the morning or later in the day to beat the heat and ensure that everyone has a blast. Keep reading to see our full list!
Putterz
Putterz is a hit with families for a reason. This expansive entertainment center boasts three 18-hole mini golf courses complete with windmills, castles, tunnels, and other classic obstacles. You’ll also find batting cages, an arcade and a snack bar on-site.
2675 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti. 734-434-2838.
Sportway
Treat the whole family to an action-packed afternoon at Sportway of Westland. Here, you’ll discover “Hidden Harbor,” an immersive, bi-level miniature golf course that snakes through taverns, pirate ships, and even captured fortresses. (Just don’t disturb the buccaneers!) Other attractions include go-carts, batting cages and a bungee trampoline. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $4 for kids 6 and under.
38520 Ford Rd, Westland. 734-728-7222.
Midway Sports & Entertainment
Prepare for some swashbuckling fun at Midway Sports & Entertainment. This 18-hole mini golf course features pirate ships, sea monsters, blue lagoons and palm trees aplenty, so you’ll definitely feel like you’ve set foot in the Caribbean. Guests can also enjoy go-carts, bumper boats, batting cages, a rocking climbing wall, and a bungee trampoline. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $7 for kids 5 and under.
22381 Van Born Rd, Taylor. 313-277-9156.
Funway Amusement Park
For a roaring good time, head to Funway Amusement Park in Farmington. Here, you’ll encounter life-sized animal statues on the course. (Think elephants, giraffes, gorillas and even grizzly bears.) Tickets cost $9. When you’re done, be sure to check out the go-carts, batting cages, and bungee trampoline.
30749 Grand River Ave, Farmington Hills. 248-471-5100.
Garden City Miniature Golf
If you want to enjoy a classic game in a charming setting, then you’ll love Garden City Miniature Golf. This family-owned business was established in 1967 and continues to delight families with its sprawling green paths, lush landscaping and gentle water features. Tickets cost $8 for adults, $5 for kids and $6 for seniors.
29060 Ford Rd, Garden City. 734-425-9816. gardencityminigolf.com.
Paradise Park
Say goodbye to the traditional putting green and hello to a technicolor wonderland at Paradise Park. This 18-hole mini golf course features vibrant red, yellow, blue, and purple paths, plus rock waterfalls and rushing streams. Best of all? The course is completely handicap accessible, so the whole family can play together. Tickets are $9 for adults, $8 for kids under 6, $8 for seniors over 65 and free for kids 2 and under.
45799 Grand River Ave, Novi. 248-735-1050. paradiseparknovi.com.
Putting Edge
Escape the heat and show off your best swing (literally!) at Putting Edge in Novi. This glow-in-the-dark mini golf course takes visitors on a dizzying adventure across the ocean floor, through the jungle, and even into a knight-guarded castle. Tickets cost $14, and you’ll need to pay by credit card.
44225 W Twelve Mile Rd, Novi. 248-348-4022.
Cranbrook on the Green
Calling all art-lovers! Now’s your chance to visit the Cranbrook Art Museum and experience a one-of-a-kind mini golf course right on the grounds. All nine holes were custom designed by artists and speak to the unique history of Cranbrook. You can putt among pottery, swivel on midcentury chairs, and even send your ball flying through the legs of a Stegosaurus. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for ArtMembers and Detroit residents, and $8 for children under 12.
39221 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills. 248-645-3323.
Note: This seasonal exhibit runs through September 28.
Shipwreck Lagoon Adventure Golf
Soak up family time and scenic views at Shipwreck Lagoon Adventure Golf. Nestled within Lake St. Clair Metropark, this 18-hole course guides visitors past babbling brooks, up rolling hills, and across a rock waterfall. Tickets cost $5 for adults and $4 for kids under 11 and free for kids under 3. But take note: You will need a Metroparks daily or annual pass to enter the park.
31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Township. 586-463-4581.
