There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sinking a hole-in-one after a long journey through challenging obstacles, winding pathways, and vibrant blue waters. Originating from Scotland in the 19th century, the game of mini golf we know today was pioneered by a group of women in response to the societal female limitations surrounding the game of golf. This inexpensive pastime exploded in popularity following The Great Depression era and continues to be an entertaining activity for all ages today. New Jersey is no stranger to the green as it is filled with a plethora of scenic and unique courses throughout the state. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just a beginner, here are some of the best mini-golf courses to visit this summer in the Garden State.
Castle Cove Mini Golf & Arcade
Jefferson, NJ
This family-owned business boasts an outdoor 18-hole mini golf course surrounded by waterfalls, ponds, streams, and a large castle fit for a king and queen. Open daily from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., the course features a fully-stocked food court, arcade, and party rooms for any celebration. There is even a place for guests to go mining for fossils and gemstones at their mining activity site. To play, adults are priced at only $12 with children from ages four to eleven at $11.
Skyline Mini Golf
Woodbridge, NJ
Located at the Woodbridge Community Center, Skyline Mini Golf’s 18-hole course features beautiful waterfalls, steep hills, and a science view of the NYC skyline. Guests have the opportunity to host birthday parties, private parties, and corporate events suitable for all ages and abilities. Open during the spring, summer, and fall months, this golf course provides an affordable family activity at just $7 per adult and $5 per child 12 and under.
Willowbrook Golf Center
Wayne, NJ
Situated off Route 46, this impressive 36-hole golf course invites guests to experience challenging holes alongside 15- and 30ft waterfalls. The center also includes a two-tier driving range, private and group golf lessons, and hosted parties with catering provided. There is even an on-site pro shop featuring the latest golf gear at affordable prices. Open from 7 a.m.-10 p.m., guests have the option to purchase 18 holes for $12 and 36 for $18.
Lake Hopatcong Golf Club
Lake Hopatcong, NJ
Swing into summer competition overlooking beautiful lake views at the Lake Hopatcong Golf Club. Open daily from 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., this course combines rich history with family fun entertainment for all ages. Guests are invited to putt through historic landmarks recreated to scale at each hole, such as the Ogden Mine Railroad, Hopatcong Steamboat, and The Wildcat rollercoaster. After a family-friendly match, enjoy a refreshing beverage or snack at their onsite Kiosk or pick out a memorable Lake Hopatcong souvenir. Guests have the option to either play a single round of 18 holes or purchase a membership for a whole season of fun. Adults from 13-64 can play for $15, while children 4-12 are priced at $11. Membership pricing varies from a season, month, or week pass.
Essex County Mini Golf Safari
West Orange, NJ
Take a trip on the wild side at this award-winning 19-hole mini golf course within the heart of Essex County. Located next to the Turtle Back Zoo, guests are invited to putt through an African-themed safari featuring life-sized gorillas, hippos, and more. Open daily from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., admission prices include adults at $14 and children at $12. Be advised mini golf is not included with zoo admission and must be purchased separately.
Blacklight Mini Golf
East Rutherford, NJ
Take a break from the heat and enjoy this one-of-a-kind indoor mini-golf experience at the American Dream Mall. Guests can putt their way through 18 holes alongside neon-colored backdrops, otherworldly planets, and supernatural creatures illuminated by blacklights. Enjoy this intergalactic Instagram-able experience open daily from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. with pricing starting at $20.
Pine Creek Miniature Golf
Ringoes, NJ
Experience twice the fun at this beautiful country club-inspired property featuring two challenging 18-hole courses fun for all ages. Plastic windmills and artificially dyed waterfalls are forgotten as guests stroke their way through the natural outdoor aesthetic of luscious greenery and bubbling creeks. Pine Creek offers both an upper and lower course with different pricing depending on difficulty. The easier upper course costs $11.99 for an adult golfer and $12.99 for the lower, more difficult course.
The Golf Zone
Flanders, NJ
Voted The Best Miniature Golf Course in Morris County by the Daily Record, this 36-hole course offers guests a classic mini golf experience fit with ponds, bridges, and plenty of foliage. Guests age 3 and under can play free with the admission of two adults for just $16 per person. They also have a high-quality driving range, billiards, and an advanced HD golf simulator for practicing strokes and swings.
Swingtime
Howell, NJ
This family-friendly golf attraction features two full 18-hole courses complete with various hills, creeks, and a boasting waterfall. Highland Falls allows guests to navigate a rocky path to the beautiful water structure. Raccoon Hollow is a journey ending in putting under a rocky mountain. Additionally, there are batting cages and a well-stocked arcade filled with classic and modern games to enjoy. The course operates daily from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. and costs $12 for adults and $10 for children for one course each. Please note they stop selling tickets 45 minutes before closing.
Castaway Cove
Point Pleasant, NJ
Explore a nautical pirate cove on Jenkinson’s Boardwalk themed after the Wheeler family who gets shipwrecked on Pirate’s Cove. The remains from the ship are placed throughout the two unique courses, complete with pirate’s booty, maps, and lost treasure. Guests can navigate through dark caves, cascading waterfalls, and a stunning view of the landscape atop the cove’s quarters. Hours of operation begin at 11 a.m. and are dependent on permitting weather. Prices include $10 for children and $14 for adult participants.
Smuggler’s Quay Adventure Golf
Seaside Heights, NJ
This accessible multi-level 36 golf course provides visitors with a nautical adventure through mountain caves, pirate quarters, and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the street corner of Sherman Avenue and Ocean Terrace, there are two 18-hole courses to explore called the Privateer Course and the Buccaneer Course. There are even benches available for those who may not want to play but enjoy the ocean breeze and aesthetic scenery. For one course, children and adults are priced at $12 and $17 for the full 36 holes.
Island Golf
Long Beach Island, NJ
Nestled within the beach town of Surf City, this historic mini golf course features fun mechanical props and a nautical-themed adventure fit for the whole family to enjoy. They offer various putting tournaments and competitions throughout the season, with age categories starting at any age. The competition also offers first and second-place winners the opportunity to win cash prizes. Tickets to putt are an affordable $8 for children and adults.
Jurassic Adventure Golf
Wildwood, NJ
Travel through the prehistoric period at this extraordinary Jurrasic-themed golf course. Dinosaur lovers can stroke their way through the Jurassic world alongside a 15-foot T-Rex and other impressive archaic creatures. Open daily from 10 a.m.-11 p.m., it only costs $9 per person for a round of golf. After a competitive round, escape the heat and visit the adjacent ice cream parlor for a refreshing hand-dipped treat with 20 different toppings to choose from.
What mini golf courses will you be putting your way through this summer? Did we miss your favorite? Share with us in the comments below!
About the Author/s
Laura DeSiena is a certified Jersey Girl with a passion for music, playing the guitar, and binge-watching 90’s sitcoms. As an aspiring writer and author, she hopes to publish a book someday. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her browsing the shelves of Barnes & Noble in search of her next read.
