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How Long Does It Take To Mini Golf: What to Expect
Mini golf is a fun game for everyone. People often ask, “How long does it take to mini golf?” A typical game of mini golf, which means playing all 18 holes, usually takes about 30 to 75 minutes. This can change based on many things. So, “how long 18 holes mini golf” takes depends on your group size, how busy the course is, and your playing style. If you wonder “how many minutes for mini golf,” most people finish an 18-hole game in under an hour. This guide will help you know what to expect for your game.
The Typical Mini Golf Time
Knowing the average mini golf game length helps you plan your day. It is a good idea to think about how long the game might last before you go. This way, you can enjoy your time without feeling rushed.
What is the Average Mini Golf Game Length?
For most people, an average mini golf game length is between 45 minutes and 1 hour for 18 holes. This is a good general rule. It assumes you play at a normal speed. It also assumes the course is not too crowded. If you are playing alone or with just one other person, you might finish faster. If you are with a big group, it will take longer. This average time is a good starting point for your mini golf course time estimate.
How Long Does 18 Holes Mini Golf Take?
Playing a full 18 holes of mini golf is the standard game. As stated, most games last from 30 minutes to 75 minutes.
* 30-45 minutes: This is for smaller groups (1-2 people) on a quiet day. Players often move quickly from hole to hole.
* 45-60 minutes: This is the most common time. It is for groups of 3-4 people on a moderately busy day.
* 60-75 minutes: This is for larger groups (5+ people) or on very busy days. You might wait a bit between holes. You also might take more time for each shot.
This timeframe gives you a good idea for your estimated mini golf playing time. Always add a little extra time just in case.
How Many Minutes for Mini Golf Per Player?
To get a better idea, you can think about time per player. Each player needs time to take their shots. They also need time to walk to the next hole. On average, you can figure about 2-4 minutes per person per hole.
* For an 18-hole course:
* 1 player: 18 holes * 2 minutes/hole = 36 minutes (minimum)
* 2 players: 18 holes * 3 minutes/hole = 54 minutes
* 4 players: 18 holes * 4 minutes/hole = 72 minutes (or more, depending on pace)
This is a very rough guide. It helps to show how more players mean more time. The typical putt putt game duration truly depends on how many putts each player takes!
Key Factors Shaping Mini Golf Time
Many things change how long a mini golf game takes. It is not just about the number of holes. These factors can make your game much shorter or much longer. Knowing them helps you better plan your mini golf round length groups.
How Many People Are Playing?
The size of your group is one of the biggest factors. More people usually mean more time.
Solo or Duo Play
If you play by yourself or with one other person, your game will be fast. You do not have to wait for many other people to take their turns. You can move quickly from one hole to the next. A solo game can be done in 30 minutes. Two people might take 40-50 minutes. This is often the fastest mini golf pace of play.
Small Groups (3-4 Players)
Most people play mini golf in small groups. This size group is fun. It allows for friendly competition. With 3-4 players, you will take turns. This adds a little wait time between shots. Your game will likely fall within the 45-60 minute range. This is a very common typical putt putt game duration.
Big Groups (5+ Players)
Playing with a large group of 5 or more people is great for parties. But it will take much longer. Each person takes a turn. There is more waiting. People might chat more. They might also take more practice swings. This can easily push your game past an hour. It might even take 90 minutes or more. For these groups, managing the mini golf pace of play becomes important.
What is the Course Like?
Not all mini golf courses are the same. Some are simple. Some are very tricky. The design of the course greatly impacts the time.
Easy Courses
Some courses are very simple. They have wide fairways and not many big obstacles. The holes are often short. You might get a hole-in-one more often. These courses are faster to play. You can usually get through them in less than an hour, even with a small group.
Harder Courses
Other courses are designed to be a challenge. They might have:
* Complex layouts: Twisty paths, hills, or tunnels.
* Many obstacles: Water features, sand traps, windmills, or tricky slopes.
* Longer holes: You have to hit the ball farther or use more strokes.
On a hard course, players will likely take more shots per hole. This adds time. You might also spend more time thinking about your shot. A challenging 18-hole course can easily take 75 minutes or longer for a group.
Special Course Features
Some courses have special features that can slow things down.
* Animated props: Like a moving windmill or a dinosaur that roars. People might stop to watch them.
* Water features: Sometimes balls go into the water. Players might take time to get them out.
* Photo spots: Many courses have fun spots for pictures. People stop, pose, and take photos. This adds time, but it also adds fun.
These features all contribute to the overall mini golf course time estimate.
How Busy is the Course?
The number of people playing at the same time matters a lot. A crowded course means more waiting.
Peak Times
Mini golf courses are busiest during:
* Evenings: Especially Friday and Saturday nights.
* Weekends: All day Saturday and Sunday.
* Holidays: Like long weekends or school breaks.
When it is busy, you will wait behind other groups. You might wait for the group in front of you to finish a hole. Then you wait for them to walk to the next one. This waiting adds a lot of time. A game that takes 45 minutes on a quiet day might take 90 minutes or more on a busy day. This is a crucial factor affecting mini golf time.
Off-Peak Times
If you want a faster game, go during off-peak times:
* Weekdays: During the morning or early afternoon.
* Non-holiday periods: When kids are in school.
During these times, you might have the course mostly to yourself. You can play at your own speed. This makes for a much quicker game. It also makes for a very relaxed mini golf pace of play.
How Good Are the Players?
The skill level of the players can change game time.
Beginners
New players or those who do not play often might take more shots. They might also take more time lining up their putts. They might even hit the ball out of bounds more often. This adds to the time.
Experienced Players
Players who are good at mini golf usually take fewer shots. They know how to hit the ball. They also know the course better. They often play faster. They might finish a hole in just a few putts. This speeds up the whole game. This is another key factor affecting mini golf time.
Are Kids Playing?
Mini golf with kids duration is a big factor. Kids, especially young ones, play differently.
Young Kids (Ages 2-7)
When playing with very young children:
* More strokes: They often take many, many putts per hole.
* Distractions: They get easily distracted by the course features, other players, or even bugs.
* Running around: They might run ahead or lag behind.
* Help needed: Parents or guardians often help them. This means more time spent at each hole.
A game with young kids can easily take over an hour, even for a small group. It is more about having fun than finishing fast.
Older Kids (Ages 8-12+)
Older children usually play faster than very young ones. They understand the rules better. They also have better control of the putter. They still might take more shots than adults. But their game speed is closer to that of adults. Expect them to add a little time, but not as much as toddlers. This consideration is vital for your mini golf round length groups planning.
How Much Fun Are You Having?
Your own attitude towards the game changes its length.
Casual Play
Some people play mini golf for fun and relaxation. They do not care about their score. They might:
* Chat a lot: Between shots, they talk to their friends.
* Take breaks: They might stop for snacks or drinks.
* Enjoy the scenery: They might admire the course design.
This style of play makes the game longer. But it also makes it more enjoyable. This leisurely mini golf pace of play is common.
Fast Play
Other people want to play quickly. They might be trying to beat their best score. Or they might be in a hurry. They will:
* Move quickly: As soon as one person finishes, the next is ready.
* Take fewer practice swings: They just hit the ball.
* Focus on the game: They minimize distractions.
This type of player finishes the game much faster. It is good for fitting mini golf into a tight schedule. The estimated mini golf playing time will be at the lower end of the scale.
Estimating Your Mini Golf Course Time
It helps to have a system for estimating how long your game will take. This way, you can plan your day better.
Using Simple Math for Mini Golf Course Time Estimate
You can use a simple formula to guess your game time.
Time (minutes) = (Number of Players) x (Minutes per Player per Hole) x (Number of Holes)
Let’s use an example:
* Number of Players: 4 people
* Minutes per Player per Hole: Let’s guess 3 minutes (average)
* Number of Holes: 18 holes
Calculation: 4 players * 3 minutes/player/hole * 18 holes = 216 minutes.
This is incorrect. The calculation should be:
Time (minutes) = (Minutes per Hole) x (Number of Holes)
Where Minutes per Hole = (Minutes per Player per Hole) x (Number of Players per turn)
This means the group takes about 2-4 minutes per hole, regardless of how many are in the group, as long as they play one at a time. The waiting time is what adds up.
Let’s rethink the simple math for mini golf course time estimate:
A better way to think about it is minutes per hole for your group.
* Quiet Course, Small Group (1-2 players): 2 minutes per hole. (18 holes * 2 min/hole = 36 minutes)
* Average Course, Medium Group (3-4 players): 3-4 minutes per hole. (18 holes * 3 min/hole = 54 minutes to 18 holes * 4 min/hole = 72 minutes)
* Busy Course, Large Group (5+ players): 5+ minutes per hole. (18 holes * 5 min/hole = 90 minutes or more)
This revised calculation is more accurate for how long 18 holes mini golf takes for a group.
Typical Putt Putt Game Duration
The term “putt putt” is another name for mini golf. The typical putt putt game duration mirrors what we have discussed. It generally means 45 to 60 minutes for a standard 18-hole course. This time allows for a moderate pace of play. It also accounts for some waiting if the course is a bit busy. If you are planning a casual outing, this is the time you should aim for.
Mini Golf Round Length Groups (Table)
This table provides a quick guide for the mini golf round length groups. Remember, these are estimates. Your actual time may vary.
| Number of Players | Course Busyness | Estimated Time for 18 Holes | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Low | 30-45 minutes | Very fast pace, little waiting. |
| 1-2 | Medium/High | 45-60 minutes | Some waiting for groups ahead. |
| 3-4 | Low | 45-60 minutes | Good balance of play and social time. |
| 3-4 | Medium/High | 60-75 minutes | Common time, expect some delays. |
| 5-6 | Low | 60-75 minutes | Good for larger families/friends, steady pace. |
| 5-6 | Medium/High | 75-90+ minutes | Significant waiting possible, especially for kids. |
| 7+ | Any | 90+ minutes | Best for parties, expect long waits, focus on fun. |
This table shows the estimated mini golf playing time for different situations.
Estimated Mini Golf Playing Time
To sum it up, the estimated mini golf playing time is dynamic. It shifts with every variable.
* Shortest Time: 30 minutes (1-2 players, quiet course, fast play).
* Average Time: 45-60 minutes (3-4 players, moderate busyness, relaxed play).
* Longest Time: 90+ minutes (large groups, busy course, young kids, very casual play).
Always factor in extra time if you are going with young children. Also, expect longer waits if you visit during peak hours. This gives you a comprehensive mini golf course time estimate.
Tips for a Better Game Length
You can help manage the length of your mini golf game. This can make the experience more fun for everyone.
Playing Faster
If you want a quicker game, here are some tips:
* Be ready: When it is your turn, step up to the ball right away.
* Limit practice swings: Take one or two, then hit the ball.
* Keep talking short: Save long chats for between holes or after the game.
* Move to the next hole: As soon as your group finishes, walk to the next tee.
* Write scores quickly: Designate one person to keep score. Have them do it fast.
* Follow rules for maximum strokes: Most courses have a 6 or 7 stroke limit per hole. If you reach it, pick up your ball and move on. Do not keep hitting the ball over and over. This is great for mini golf pace of play.
Taking Your Time
If you want to enjoy a slower, more relaxed game:
* Let faster groups pass: If a group behind you is playing faster, offer to let them go ahead. This is good manners. It also stops you from feeling rushed.
* Take photos: Stop and get pictures at fun spots on the course.
* Enjoy the scenery: Look at the plants, water, or structures around the course.
* Chat with your group: Mini golf is a social activity. Take your time and talk.
* Take breaks: If there is a snack bar, stop for a moment. Get a drink or a treat.
This approach makes the typical putt putt game duration longer, but more enjoyable.
Handling Crowds
A crowded course can be frustrating. Here is how to deal with it:
* Go at off-peak times: This is the best way to avoid crowds. Weekday mornings or early afternoons are usually quiet.
* Be patient: Waiting is part of the game when it is busy. Do not get upset.
* Use the wait time: Chat with your group. Plan your next shot. Or just relax.
* Do not hover: Give the group in front of you space. Wait until they are fully off the green before starting your hole.
* Communicate: If a group behind you is really fast, wave them through. If you are waiting on a slow group, enjoy the break.
Managing crowds is a key factor affecting mini golf time. Being smart about it makes the game better.
Going Beyond 18 Holes
Sometimes mini golf is more than just a single game. It can be part of a bigger event.
Mini Golf for Events and Parties
If you are planning a party or event, mini golf is a great choice. But remember, the time estimates will change.
* Corporate events: Teams might play. They might want more time for team-building.
* Birthday parties: Kids might spend a lot of time at each hole. They might also stop for cake and presents.
* Family reunions: Many people will be there. The game will take a long time. It is often more about socializing than putting.
For events, always assume a longer mini golf round length groups estimate. It is better to have too much time than not enough. This allows for fun, food, and photos without rushing.
Unlimited Play Deals
Some mini golf places offer “unlimited play” passes. This means you can play as many games as you want in a set time.
* Great value: If you want to play a lot, this is a good deal.
* Different pace: You might play faster if you know you can play again. Or you might take your time if you are not worried about finishing.
An unlimited play pass changes the mindset from “how long does it take to mini golf one game” to “how many games can I fit in this time?” If you get an unlimited pass, you might play 2-3 games easily in 2-3 hours, or more depending on how fast you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about mini golf duration.
How long does it take to mini golf 9 holes?
If you play only 9 holes, it will take about half the time of an 18-hole game. For 9 holes, expect to play for 15-40 minutes. This depends on your group size and how busy the course is.
Can you play mini golf alone? How long does it take?
Yes, you can definitely play mini golf alone. Playing solo is often the fastest way to play. You can finish an 18-hole game in as little as 30-40 minutes. You do not have to wait for anyone else.
What is a good mini golf score?
A good score in mini golf is usually below par. Par for an 18-hole course is often 36 (meaning 2 strokes per hole). So, a score of 45 or less is considered quite good by most players. Getting a hole-in-one on a hole is also a great achievement!
Is mini golf hard?
Mini golf is generally easy to learn and play. It is much easier than real golf. You do not need any special skills or strength. But mastering it can be hard. Getting a very low score takes practice and skill. Some courses are also much harder than others due to their design and obstacles.
How many strokes per hole in mini golf?
Most mini golf holes have a “par” of 2. This means it should ideally take you 2 strokes to get the ball in the hole. However, it is common to take 3, 4, or even more strokes. Most courses also have a maximum stroke limit per hole, usually 6 or 7. If you reach this limit, you pick up your ball and add the maximum score to your card. This helps keep the game moving.
Mini golf is a relaxed activity. How long it takes truly depends on how you want to play and who you play with. With a little planning, you can make sure your mini golf experience fits perfectly into your day. Enjoy your game!