How To Play Mini Golf for Beginners

Mini golf is a game as old as time — well, maybe not as old as time, but old enough that it has a pretty unique history worth talking about. The game was originally created in Scotland in the mid-1800s, and was designed as an easy and fun game primarily targeting women, who were typically left out of traditional golf.

Not long after, around the 20th century, the game spread to the U.S., with the earliest mention of it being played in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Today, mini golf is a wildly popular game and an American staple, perfect for friends and families of all age ranges.

What Is Mini Golf, and How Do You Play?

Mini golf is essentially a scaled-down version of traditional golf. Main highlights include shorter lanes, with courses ranging anywhere from nine to 18 holes. One of the quintessential characteristics of mini golf is the creative, winding holes players putt through. Most courses feature fun elements, like ramps, windmills, tunnels, and loops, that you’ll have to navigate the ball around. 

It’s fair to say that it’s the perfect balance of skill and creative play. Plus, because the holes are shorter, mini golf is perfect for quick and fun entertainment that requires a little bit of strategy, but is fully focused on entertainment, socialization, and having laid-back fun.

So, how do you play mini golf? Well, the game is pretty straightforward. Here are the basic rules:

• Starting the game 
  • Each player will pick a color-coded ball. This is helpful to keep track of scores.
  • Taking turns, each player will start putting at hole number one.
• Taking your shot
  • One stroke is counted each time you hit the ball.
  • If the ball goes out of bounds, you add a penalty stroke, and the ball gets placed where it was last played.

• How to keep score in mini golf​
  • Most mini golf courses have a stroke limit per hole (usually about five to seven strokes). If you don’t get the ball in the hole by then, you take the max score and move on to the next hole.
  • After completing all the holes, the player with the lowest total score wins.
• How long does it take to play mini golf? 
  • Most games take about 20 to 30 minutes.

While it’s fun to keep score if you’re a person with a strong competitive drive, you’ll find that many rounds of mini golf are most enjoyable when you’re just playing for fun.

Tips for First-Timers

If this is your first time playing mini golf, you’re in luck. Mini golf is incredibly easy to pick up, and even if you’re not the best player, you’re still guaranteed to have a pretty great time. Still, it doesn’t hurt to have some helpful tips in your back pocket, so you can impress your group with skills that go beyond just beginner’s luck.

• Relax and have fun: For starters, remember that the aim of the game is kicking back and having a good time. You’ll find this is easy to do with the silly obstacles that cause unintentional ball bounces, adding another twist to your game. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. See how creative you can get when you’re up to tee.
• Adjust your grip: Now that you’re relaxed, it’s time to loosen up your grip as well. A lot of new players might feel stiff or hold the putter too firmly. Loosen your grip, hold the putter gently, and try your aim. For younger kids, choking up on the club can make it easier for them to have better control.
• Use the walls to your advantage: Mini golf is supposed to be unexpected. Aim for the walls to help control your direction, and don’t be afraid if the ball bounces, or if you go off track with your first putt. Also, keep an eye out for slopes, curves, and other ramps that might create obstacles for your ball’s path.
• Make mistakes: Sometimes, the best way to learn how to control the ball is by making mistakes and learning what not to do. Don’t be afraid to mess up, and just have fun. 
• Take your time: The spirit of the game is all about relaxing and having fun. Don’t feel like you have to rush through the holes. Take your time to enjoy the design and theme of the course you’re playing.
• Have fun: If you analyze your course closely enough, you’ll find that some have secret shortcuts that can amplify the fun, or improve your shot rate. Experiment with different courses, see how ramps, bumps, and other obstacles can play to your advantage, and don’t forget to have fun.

What Makes KISS Mini Golf Special and Welcoming for Beginners?

If it’s your first time playing mini golf, you’ve got to experience it first at KISS Mini Golf, a leading Las Vegas mini golf course. 

As you navigate your way through our glow-in-the-dark course, you’ll be mesmerized by the interactive displays that light up your game. Audio and visual effects also enhance your experience, making you feel like you’re in a whole new world as you make your way through our KISS setup. 

The ambiance here features a relaxed vibe, complete with fun music, themed holes, and a welcoming environment.

Not to mention, we also have other attractions, including an arcade room where you can keep the fun going even after finishing the course.

Ready To Rock Your First Round?

Visit us online to book your tee time ahead of arrival, and plan the perfect afternoon or evening out with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a casual night, are planning a family event, like a mini golf birthday party or outing, or are looking for the best group events in Las Vegas, KISS Mini Golf has everything you need for an adventure your whole crew will love.