4 Must-Play Seattle Miniature Golf Courses
Bring out your inner Jack Nicklaus at one of these four putt-putt courses in town
By Kimberly Downing June 1, 2015
This article originally appeared in the June 2015 issue of Seattle magazine.
Didn’t qualify for the U.S. Open? No problem. While the competitors show off their strokes at the tournament in nearby Chambers Bay (6/15–6/21; usga.usopen.com), you can ply your putter at one of Seattle’s miniature golf courses.
Green Lake Pitch and Putt
This leafy nine-hole pitch and putt course at the south end of Green Lake is designed for beginners, with the longest drive at 115 yards. Bonus: Gather a posse for the “Glow Golf” tourney held in August and October, a nighttime event for private groups with glow-in-the-dark holes and balls ($15/person). Best for: a fun (and cheap: $8–$10) outdoor date. 5701 W Green Lake Way N; 206.632.2280; seattle.gov/parks
Flatstick Pub
This indoor nine-hole mini golf course housed in a Kirkland pub boasts 24 rotating taps, all devoted to brews made in Washington state. Bonus: The course is both beer- and dog-friendly, and offers the chance to putt your ball through an actual keg. Best for: dog lovers. Those who bring their pooches in for “Yappy Hour” (Sundays, noon–4 p.m.) procure $1 off drafts. Kirkland, 15 Lake St.; 425.242.1618; flatstickpub.com
Smash Putt!
Call it a pop-up Putt-Putt–style course, this temporary (through July) indoor course in the Central District is where Burning Man meets mini golf meets Mad Max. Bonus: a nightclub vibe and hand-built mad-scientist obstacles involving robotics, lasers and a golf ball shooting range. Best for: party people who value a funky course as much as local whiskey. $10–$20 cover charge. 1110 23rd Ave.; smashputt.com
Interbay Golf Center
This 18-hole mini course features serene miniature greens (no windmills or gaping alligator jaws) accented by Northwesty boulders. Bonus: The café sells beer, which you can bring out on the course, so consider a pitcher of Manny’s for $17. Best for: anyone who prioritizes a daily happy hour (3–6 p.m.) over an impressive score. $9. 2501 15th Ave. W; 206.285.2200; premiergc.com
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