Pros 
Cons A Stark Landscape of Concrete: First Impressions of Perfect Games
Perfect Games Mini Golf in Ames, Iowa, doesn’t exactly live up to its name. In fact, it actively defies it. Multiple sources consistently describe the course as, charitably, basic. It’s a far cry from the whimsical windmills, challenging loops, and vibrant landscaping that define memorable miniature golf experiences. Instead, players are greeted by what can only be described as rectangular concrete slabs, painted a rather uninspiring shade of green. The aesthetic is… utilitarian.
Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Course Design: Predominantly straight runs with minimal obstacles. Forget trick shots; survival is the goal.
- Landscaping: Sparse. Expect more concrete than anything resembling greenery beyond the paint job.
- Atmosphere: Quiet. Very quiet. Perhaps because no one is particularly thrilled to be there for very long.
- Overall Vibe: Resembles a temporary construction site more than a leisure activity.
It’s a minimalist approach taken to an extreme, and one that leaves a lot to be desired for anyone seeking even a moderately engaging mini golf experience.
Accessibility: A Rare Bright Spot
Despite the overall lack of charm, Perfect Games does get points for accessibility. The course boasts both a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This is a significant positive and a genuine effort to include all potential players, which is commendable. While the course itself may not be visually stimulating, at least it’s physically open to a wider range of patrons. This is a definitive advantage, especially given the scarcity of accessible recreation options in some areas.
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Entrance | Accessible |
| Wheelchair Parking | Accessible |
| Ramps on Course | Not Mentioned |
| Accessible Restrooms | Information Unavailable |
It's important to note that further information regarding accessibility on the course (e.g., ramps over significant height changes) isn’t readily available, but the initial access is a promising start.
Family Fun? Proceed with Caution
Perfect Games Mini Golf advertises itself as "Good for kids," and that’s… potentially true if your definition of "fun" for children involves avoiding boredom on a concrete expanse. Younger children may not be as discerning, and the simplicity of the course could be less frustrating for absolute beginners. However, expect limited engagement for kids accustomed to more elaborate and imaginative courses.
Consider the following:
- Lack of Theming: No pirates, dinosaurs, or fairytale castles here.
- Simple Gameplay: May quickly become repetitive, even for young children.
- Limited Challenge: Older children and teens will likely find the course too easy.
- No Food Options: There is no restaurant on site, so be prepared to pack snacks or head elsewhere for refreshments.
Reviews Speak Volumes: A Chorus of Disappointment
The overall consensus is brutally honest: Perfect Games Mini Golf is, simply put, disappointing. The prevailing sentiment, echoing across various online platforms, is that the course feels unfinished, cheap, and profoundly uninspired. It seems the “single crappiest mini golf course ever” assessment is not an outlier.
“Honestly, it felt like they just poured concrete and spray-painted it green. My five-year-old lost interest after two holes.” – LocalParent87
“If you’re expecting a fun, themed mini golf experience, you’ll be severely let down. It’s… just there.” – GolfEnthusiast22
“The accessibility is great, but the course itself is just sad.” – RollinWithIt
While the accessibility is a definite plus, the overwhelming feedback points to a severely lacking experience for the vast majority of players. It appears Perfect Games needs a significant overhaul to justify its existence in the competitive world of family entertainment.