Learn about the fascinating history of miniature golf, and how it makes the ideal business venture. Read on to discover the ins and outs of this timeless pastime.
You may already be aware that miniature golf is a straight-forward and lucrative business endeavor for even first-time entrepreneurs. But did you know that this activity also has a storied past and intriguing timeline?
Even during an economic slowdown (and with fewer people venturing outside during the ongoing global pandemic), it’s still possible to attract paying customers lured by inexpensive and family-friendly entertainment. Plus, following safety guidelines (such as social distancing) is simple when you partner with an expert miniature golf course designer to create a spacious and challenging course. Discover the timeless joy of mini golf with this insight.
History and Legends
Historians trace the origin of miniature golf back to the 19th Century. In Scotland at the time, many women felt it was “un lady like” to raise a golf club above one’s shoulder. So, a group of women invented a modified version of the game where they could gently ‘putt’ instead.
Fast forward to the United States, where in 1916 James Barber quickly became popular for his Thistle Dhu (“this’ll do”) courses. Later, during the Great Depression, people were searching for inexpensive and creative ways to have fun and escape the rigorous truths of the time. Miniature golf perfectly fit the bill.
Today, designing a mini golf course is an exciting and innovative way to bring joy and wonder to people of all ages. Best of all, this is a relatively easy way to reach big success in business. The key is to partner with mini-golf contractors with a proven track record of success, who can construct a course tailored to your business and customer needs.
Fun Facts and Whacky Details
Miniature golf is synonymous with the enduring desire for good, clean, fun entertainment. People from all walks of life have flocked to courses for years. Along with the favorable price point, customers enjoy the low time commitment activity that mini golf affords. That’s one of the many reasons this is an ideal addition to your hotel amenities design.
In the early years of the sport, courses were created with whatever was on hand at the moment. It wasn’t uncommon to see featured items such as barrels, pipes, rain gutters, and even old tires as obstacles!
By the mid-1920s, historians say there were more than 150 mini golf courses in New York City alone. Many were constructed on rooftops, where players could catch an exciting glimpse of the big city skyline.
Popular Course Ideas
Today, you’ll find courses with themes of every kind. You can even treat your customers to a whole new experience with glow-in-the-dark options. Increasingly popular today, this idea actually began years ago in Scandinavia, where shorter days required modification for in and outdoor entertainment.
These days, customers want and expect a fun and thrilling theme in your minigolf course design. You could transport players to outer space or a far-off Medieval castle. Another idea is to incorporate other games (such as billiards or turn-handle soccer). You could also include extras like art/sculpture, water and fire features, and creative obstacles.
Timeless Attraction
As mentioned, miniature golf has been around for decades, and its popularity doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. That makes now the ideal moment to finally move forward with your plans of course ownership. Or, you could easily add this option to your existing entertainment complex. The key is to team with a dynamic mini golf designer who keeps client relations and visitor satisfaction at the forefront.
For more than 35 years, we’ve helped business leaders just like you across the country and the globe build lucrative and long-lasting endeavors. Browse our website to witness the creativity and innovation of which we’re capable. Then, contact us today to get started on an outstanding miniature golf course of your own.