By Daisy 
Mini golf is more than just a fun family activity or a quirky date night idea – it’s a fascinating blend of history, creativity and competition. Whether you’re visiting a themed mini golf bar, planning a birthday party, or trying out indoor mini golf on a rainy day, there’s a lot more to this beloved pastime than meets the eye.
If you’re in Melbourne, where mini golf venues are getting more creative than ever, you’ve probably already experienced some of these surprises firsthand. But wherever you are, these mini golf facts are bound to change the way you look at the game forever.
1. Mini Golf Has Been Around for Over 100 Years
You might think mini golf is a relatively recent invention, but its roots go back to the early 20th century. The first documented mini golf course, called “The Ladies’ Putting Club of St Andrews,” was established in Scotland in 1867 as a way for women to enjoy golf without swinging full-sized clubs (considered unladylike at the time). In the U.S., the game gained popularity in the 1920s and exploded during the Great Depression as a low-cost form of entertainment.
2. There Are More Mini Golf Courses Than You Might Expect
Mini golf is truly a global phenomenon. The United States alone is home to over 5,000 mini golf courses, with countless others scattered around the world. In Australia, the mini golf scene is booming, particularly in places like Melbourne, where venues are innovating with indoor layouts, glow-in-the-dark themes, and integrated bars. The rise of the mini golf bar concept, where you can enjoy cocktails while you putt, has brought a fresh adult twist to the classic game.
3. It’s an Official Competitive Sport
Yes, that’s correct – mini golf isn’t just for kids or casual fun. Competitive mini golf tournaments are held around the world, and there’s even a governing body, the World Minigolf Federation (WMF) that oversees international competitions. Players take their gear seriously, with custom putters, gloves and extensive practice routines. Mini golf professionals often memorise the slopes, angles and timing of each hole.
4. Mini Golf Can Be Played Indoors
One of the biggest trends in recent years is indoor mini golf. Whether it’s due to unpredictable weather or the growing demand for immersive entertainment, indoor courses are popping up in cities all over the world. In Melbourne, you’ll find highly stylised indoor mini golf venues like What The Putt indoor mini golf, which makes the game accessible all year round and offers a unique escape from the everyday.
5. The Longest Mini Golf Hole is Over 150 Metres
Think mini golf holes are just short, quirky obstacles? Think again. The Guinness World Record for the longest mini golf hole goes to a course in New York, with a staggering 158.5-metre hole. That’s longer than some par-3 holes on regular golf courses! It’s a testament to how creatively outrageous some courses can get.
6. Mini Golf Bars Are the New Social Hubs
Combining mini golf with drinks, music and trendy décor has made mini golf cooler than ever. The mini golf bar trend started gaining traction in the UK and US, but Australia has quickly caught on. In Melbourne, mini golf bars are packed with people of all ages looking for an interactive night out. These venues offer gourmet food, signature cocktails, themed holes and vibrant atmospheres, making them perfect for date nights, work parties and even hens’ or bucks’ nights.
7. It Helps Develop Real Golf Skills
Though it may seem like just a novelty, mini golf is actually a great way to develop fundamental golf skills. The emphasis on putting, focus and patience makes it an excellent training ground for beginners. Many pro golfers credit mini golf as part of their early exposure to the sport. Kids and adults alike benefit from the hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking that mini golf naturally encourages.
8. There Are Crazy Mini Golf Themes Worldwide
From dinosaur jungles to pirate coves, outer space, haunted houses, and even replica cityscapes, mini golf themes are limited only by the imagination. Some courses go all out, incorporating sound effects, moving parts, and even animatronics. A standout example is What The Putt, known for its wild, Instagram-worthy setups. Their Melbourne location features themed holes, vibrant lighting, and food and drinks, offering something far beyond your average round of putt-putt.
9. Some Courses Have Unwritten Rules and Secret Paths
Here’s one of the coolest mini golf facts: many courses include “easter eggs” or hidden shortcuts designed to reward players who take the time to explore. These can be secret tunnels, hidden pressure pads, or cleverly placed slopes that send your ball directly to the hole if hit just right. These secrets often go unnoticed by casual players, but those in the know can use them to score a hole-in-one with ease.
10. It’s a Surprisingly Calorie-Burning Activity
While not as intense as a spin class, mini golf does keep you moving. Walking the course, bending to pick up balls, and taking shots adds up over time. A casual game of mini golf can burn around 150–300 calories an hour, depending on your pace. Plus, it’s a great way to get people outdoors (or indoors, in the case of indoor mini golf) and off their screens.
11. The Oldest Operating Mini Golf Course Is Nearly 100 Years Old
Parkside Whispering Pines in North Carolina, USA, claims to be the oldest continuously operating mini golf course in the world. It opened in 1930 and is still running today. The vintage style and original features give visitors a nostalgic glimpse into the game’s early days, which is a stark contrast to the ultra-modern, tech-driven mini golf experiences available now.
From its century-old roots to its latest evolution as a mini golf bar experience, mini golf has proven itself to be timeless, versatile and surprisingly full of character. Whether you’re putting through a windmill, enjoying an espresso martini between holes, or exploring the best indoor mini golf Melbourne has to offer, there’s no denying the universal appeal of this quirky sport.
So next time you pick up a putter, remember, you’re not just playing a game. You’re participating in a global tradition filled with fascinating history, hidden secrets and plenty of unexpected twists. And that’s what makes mini golf such a hole-in-one experience for all ages. Contact the friendly team at What The Putt to plan your next event or get together with friends.