Pros 
Cons A Trip Down Memory Lane or a Bumpy Ride? First Impressions of Fantasy Island
Fantasy Island Mini Golf in Chagrin Falls, OH, evokes a strong sense of nostalgia for some, while others find it falling short of expectations. With a rating of 3.9, it clearly divides opinion. Many long-time visitors cherish its unchanging nature, recalling fond childhood memories. One reviewer specifically mentioned how the place "hasn't changed a bit since I was a kid, and that's okay with me," praising the consistent presence of the elderly couple who run the establishment and describe them as "super nice." This sentiment highlights a comforting familiarity that appeals to a certain clientele.
However, the course itself is a frequent point of contention. Numerous reviews detail issues with the condition of the turf. Several customers explicitly state the course needs updating, and describe "patchy spots" and “worn down completely” areas, even noting crude repairs with “carpet squares” that hamper accurate putting. One visitor went as far as to call it “really trashy.” While the price point of $9 per person seems reasonable to some, others believe it's too high given the poor maintenance. The long-standing family run business also offers ice cream and treats, which is mentioned positively by several reviewers, a definite perk.
Here's a quick breakdown of what reviewers are saying:
| Aspect | Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Course Condition | Cute, Nice little 18 holes | Patchy, Worn down, Crude repairs |
| Staff | Super nice, Friendly elderly couple | Unresponsive regarding refunds |
| Price | Good, Reasonable | Possibly too high for condition |
| Amenities | Ice cream and treats available | None explicitly mentioned negatively |
| Overall Feel | Nostalgic, Familiar | Disappointing, Doesn't match old photos |
Weather Woes and Refund Realities
A recurring theme in the feedback surrounding Fantasy Island Mini Golf revolves around inclement weather and the subsequent handling of refunds. Multiple reviewers experienced sudden downpours mid-game - typical for Ohio, perhaps - and were left unsatisfied with the response from staff.
One reviewer detailed a situation where, after being caught in heavy rain around the 6th hole, they requested a refund or partial refund. Despite explaining they were out-of-town visitors, the employee reportedly offered only three free chips for future play, a gesture that held little value to a transient customer. Another reviewer simply stated, “It rained out of nowhere and guy never gave us our money back.” This lack of flexibility, and potential disregard for customer service in situations beyond control, appears to be a significant issue for some patrons. It is worth noting Fantasy Island’s regular operating hours are every day of the week from 12 PM to 10 PM, with slightly earlier closing on Sundays at 9 PM - suggesting potential compromise may be tricky during peak times.
Is it Truly 18 Holes? A Question of Course Layout
Several visitors called into question whether Fantasy Island Mini Golf actually features a full 18 holes. One review specifically stated, "Unless I didn't follow the course right, there wasn't even 18 holes." This creates confusion and implies either unclear course navigation or a misrepresentation of the course's size. While the general consensus seems to be that it is an 18-hole course, the repeated questioning raises concerns about the overall experience and the potential for misleading customers.
- Potential Issues:
- Poorly marked holes
- Holes integrated into the same area, causing confusion
- A course layout that doesn’t intuitively lead to all holes
- Recommendations: Fantasy Island could benefit from clearer signage and course mapping to alleviate this confusion and ensure all customers have a complete golfing experience.
Safety Concerns and the Call for Repair
Beyond aesthetics, the state of repair at Fantasy Island Mini Golf raises some safety concerns. Reviewers specifically highlighted the presence of “worn down and broken wood decking” which poses a potential hazard to players. Tripping hazards are a serious concern, especially for children. The substandard turf, in addition to making accurate putting difficult, could also contribute to slips and falls.
“Place needs some serious work. Course turf is worn down completely on some holes… Makes accurate putting impossible. Worn down and broken wood decking is dangerous.”
While the course's charm lies in its retro appeal for some, the decay and deteriorating conditions are becoming a detractor for others. A focused investment in repairs and maintenance – replacing damaged decking and turf, securing loose structures – would not only improve the overall playing experience but also mitigate potential risks and enhance customer safety. It is important the owners prioritize safety improvements.