Pros 
Cons A Glowing Trip Down Memory Lane: The Vibe at Rock Of Ages
Rock Of Ages Blacklight Minigolf in Bloomington, MN, aims for a retro, immersive experience, and by many accounts, succeeds in delivering that atmosphere. Located in the South Loop District of the Bloomington mall, this miniature golf course leans heavily into nostalgia, cycling through different decades of music as players progress through its 18 holes. Many visitors rave about the vibrant blacklight-reactive artwork and the overall fun aesthetic. The decor is frequently praised as "unique" and "memorable," lending itself well to both family outings and date nights.
The course's design emphasizes visual appeal, with many commenting on the creative obstacles. One reviewer specifically called out hole 17 as a favorite. Admission is relatively affordable at $14.99 per adult, making it a reasonable entertainment option. An added incentive for skilled players is the awarding of free admission tickets for any holes-in-one achieved during a round. Indeed, repeat visits, as mentioned by several reviewers, indicate a genuine draw for those who enjoy the course's ambiance.
Here's a quick look at what Rock Of Ages offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price (Adult) | $14.99 |
| Number of Holes | 18 |
| Music | Decade-themed |
| Atmosphere | Blacklight & Vibrant |
| Special Offers | Hole-in-One Tickets |
The Ups and Downs of Gameplay
While the visual experience is often a hit, gameplay itself appears to be a more mixed bag. A recurring theme in customer feedback centers around pacing. The course’s lack of staggered entry times leads to congestion, especially with varying skill levels within groups. Faster players can find themselves waiting behind slower ones, and those behind them feel rushed, creating an unenjoyable experience for all. This issue is particularly noticeable with larger groups.
Beyond the pace, several reviewers point to issues with the course design, specifically questioning the intentionality of the layout. Some holes are described as illogical or containing features that don’t serve a purpose. One review highlighted a malfunctioning cassette tape feature on hole 15 and another player actually fixed a part of hole 2 after their ball became lodged, suggesting a lack of consistent maintenance. The potential for a "risky" shot for a hole-in-one adds a layer of challenge, however, it doesn’t seem to alleviate the underlying issues with hole practicality.
Facility Considerations & Accessibility
Rock Of Ages Blacklight Minigolf appears to prioritize accessibility, with confirmed wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. This is a significant plus for families and groups with diverse needs. In terms of other amenities, the location provides restrooms, but does not have a restaurant on-site.
However, a significant and repeatedly mentioned complaint concerns ventilation. Multiple reviewers described feeling uncomfortably hot within the course, even on days when the surrounding mall maintained a comfortable temperature. This lack of airflow is a deterrent for some, particularly when combined with the physical activity (however minimal) of playing minigolf. While the vibrant colors and blacklights contribute to the aesthetic, they also appear to exacerbate the temperature issue.
Here's a quick breakdown of the facilities:
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Excellent (entrance, parking, restroom)
- Restrooms: Available
- Restaurant: None
- Ventilation: Poor – frequent complaints of excessive heat.
A Snapshot of Customer Sentiment
Customer reviews for Rock Of Ages present a fairly polarized picture. The common consensus seems to be that it’s a fun experience, but one that can be significantly impacted by external factors.
Here’s a condensed overview of feedback:
- Positive:
- Unique and visually appealing atmosphere.
- Good value for the price.
- Fun for families, dates, and groups.
- Hole-in-one rewards are appreciated.
- Good customer service (when not crowded).
- Negative:
- Poor ventilation and excessive heat.
- Congestion and a rushed feeling due to lack of staggered entry.
- Questionable course design and malfunctioning features.
- Feels like a "money grab" to some.
Overall, Rock Of Ages Blacklight Minigolf is an experience. Those seeking a visually stimulating and nostalgic outing may find it enjoyable, especially if they visit during off-peak hours. However, potential visitors should be prepared for possible overcrowding and potentially uncomfortable temperatures.