Mini golf is an excellent activity for the entire family, or for a kids’ birthday party or even for a group of friends to get together and have a putt. With themed courses, cheap passes, food and drink, a trip to a mini golf course can make for a lovely outing.
If you’re interested in playing a bit of mini golf in Canberra, you’ve come to the right place – in this article, we’ll tell you about what makes a great mini golf course, as well as a handy guide to some of Canberra’s favourites.
Let’s get into it.
What makes an great mini golf course?
Not sure what to look for in a mini-golf course? We’ve got you covered. Keep an eye out for the following family-friendly traits:
- A fun theme. One of the coolest things about mini golf courses are the themed holes. Featuring a wild array of creatures, monuments, and other decorations, the best putt-putt golf courses take their theming seriously.
- Challenging, but not too challenging. Mini golf is great for kids, that is if the holes are not too challenging. A great mini golf course strikes the balance between challenging and enjoyable.
- Well-priced. You don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for your family to have a hit at the mini-golf course. Prices should be reasonable and should include club and ball hire.
- Not too mini. One of the key issues with sub-par mini golf courses is the length – they are far too short. The best mini golf courses are long enough to keep you entertained for an hour or so.
- Friendly staff. Whether or not you’re new to mini golf, it always helps to have a friendly guide to the course. A helpful and approachable staff member can really help you have the best time possible!
The best mini golf courses in Canberra
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To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Lake Walter Miniature Golf at Yarralumla Play Station
The Lake Walter Miniature Golf course at the Yarralumla Play Station is truly spectacular. Committed to maintaining the antique feel of mini golf, the Lake Walter Miniature Golf course includes some marvelous to-scale adaptations of national landmarks, such as the Parliamentary Triangle and both the Commonwealth and Kings Avenue Bridges.
As Google reviewer Adam Nowlan describes it, “Great putt-putt course! Genuinely challenging options and well-designed/decorated. It’s busy but that’s because it’s good. Well worth checking out.”
Capital Public Golf Course
If you have a busy schedule during the day but still want to get a putt or two in, Capital Public Golf Course is for you. As the only mini golf course in the ACT that operates day and night, this spot is particularly popular with families, school groups and social golfers alike. Capital has an extensive range of Mini Golf hire putters to suit from age 3 up to adults, and free hire equipment for all bookings.
‘Local Guide’ Steven Nayler writes in this Google review, “Best driving range in Canberra easily. Huge pro shop, great pitch and putt and mini golf courses too.”
Jungle Golf at Power Kart Raceway
What’s cooler than mini golf? Glow in the dark mini golf! The 18 inventive holes at Jungle Golf, all of which are jungle themed, are illuminated by special UV lighting, adding a whole new dimension to the game. The indoor course is air-conditioned, takes about 45 minutes to complete, and is suitable for all ages. Plus, when you’re done, why not have a go on the go-kart racetrack?
‘Local Guide’ Sienna Rose left the following review for Jungle Golf, “Fantastic experience. If you like mini golf this is 110% a must try. The course is well thought out and has some interesting holes to try. Not made only for children but for adults too.”
Mini Golf – Federation Square
Mini Golf at Federation Square is Canberra’s newest professionally designed 18-hole mini golf course. The course offers special deals on passes for all students and is open 7 days of the week, and is also able to host corporate events and large parties. With large shade sails across the majority of the course and a simple rock-garden style design, and Mini Golf at Federation Square is great fun for the whole family!
As Facebook user Amanda O’Connor writes, “One of the best mini golf courses we’ve been too. Challenging but fun. We really enjoyed ourselves.”
If you’re looking for more information on what fun activities Canberra has to offer, check out our articles on the best school holiday programs and the best programs & activities for teenagers for a useful guide.
Your experience with mini golf course in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Which mini golf course would you recommend? Share your thoughts below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mini golf and putt-putt?
There is no major difference between the mini golf and putt-putt - both are interchangeable terms to describe the game.
How do you play mini golf?
Mini golf rules are very similar to regular golf. All players take it in turns trying to hit their ball into the hole, and record how many hits they make until they do. However, some mini golf courses might have different point values for different holes based on difficulty.
What is the target age group for mini golf?
Mini golf is an activity available to anyone at any age, and kids as young as 5 can easily learn how to play. This makes mini golf a great activity for the whole family!
Can I drink at a mini golf course?
This depends from venue to venue. Some venues might be licensed, others may not.
Are mini golf courses pet-friendly?
This depends from venue to venue. Some venues might be indoors or with specially maintained landscaping and will therefore not allow dogs. Call the course ahead of time if you're unsure.