Pros 
Cons A Trip Back in Time: The Charm of General Custer's
General Custer's miniature golf, located at 3325 Westbourne Dr in Cincinnati, OH, consistently receives positive feedback, currently boasting a 4.3-star rating. Many patrons describe the course as a nostalgic experience, a classic staple of the community that evokes fond childhood memories. It’s clear this isn’t just a place to play miniature golf; it's a destination brimming with history.
- Family Fun: Repeatedly, reviewers emphasize the enjoyment families find at General Custer's. It’s often selected for birthday celebrations and church outings, and provides a welcoming environment for all ages.
- Date Night Delight: Beyond family outings, couples also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, citing it as a fun and affordable date option.
- Character & Atmosphere: While acknowledged as “a bit dated,” this is overwhelmingly viewed as part of the charm. The course's unique, slightly worn appearance contributes to its nostalgic appeal.
- Friendly Staff: Multiple reviews specifically praise the kindness and helpfulness of the staff, enhancing the overall experience.
However, it’s not without its imperfections. Some visitors have noted the course is in need of some maintenance and a ‘fresh facelift’.
Beyond the Putter: Sweet Treats & Amenities
General Custer's offers more than just a challenging miniature golf experience. It’s a full-fledged destination with appealing amenities, particularly for those with a sweet tooth.
- Ice Cream Paradise: The soft serve ice cream stand is a major draw, with a diverse menu including banana splits, malts (with extra malt and extra thick, according to one ecstatic reviewer!), yogurt and slushees. Prices are consistently described as fair.
- Accessibility Focused: The facility is thoughtfully designed for inclusivity, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. This ensures everyone can enjoy a round of miniature golf.
- Convenient Payments: General Custer’s accepts a variety of payment methods – credit cards, debit cards, and even NFC mobile payments providing flexibility for customers.
- On-Site Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are a frequent point of praise, an often overlooked but crucial aspect of a positive experience.
- Restaurant Onsite: While primarily focused on ice cream, the facility does offer a restaurant increasing its attractiveness.
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Ice Cream | Yes |
The Course Itself: A Mixed Bag of Reviews
Opinions on the miniature golf course itself are more varied. While many enjoy the challenge and quirky design, others point to its need for repair and upkeep.
- Nostalgia vs. Neglect: The course’s dated aesthetic is a double-edged sword. Some adore the retro feel, while others find it “really, really, really run-down.”
- Maintenance Concerns: Several reviewers mention bumps, broken figures (clowns, apes, haunted houses) and dying bushes impacting gameplay. One individual noted that the deteriorated state of the figures doesn’t contribute to the experience.
- Soundscape Quirks: The presence of loud Christian music playing from broken speakers was a unique and, for some, unwelcome element.
- Preservation Efforts: Despite the need for improvement, a positive sign is that the staff are actively engaged in maintaining the grounds, indicating a commitment to preserving this local treasure.
- Limited Crowds: Visiting on a Thursday evening resulted in a quieter atmosphere for one family, suggesting weekdays may offer a more relaxed experience.
“It was so much fun for the kids...Today was a perfect day with the beautiful weather we had. The kids enjoyed all of the characters as well.” – A recent visitor, highlighting the appeal for children
Important Details & Seasonal Availability
Planning a visit to General Custer's is simple as it offers consistent hours of operation. The course is open seven days a week, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM on Saturdays and finally 12:00 PM–10:00 PM on Sundays.
However, it’s important to note the seasonal nature of the business. General Custer's is only open through October 29th.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (513) 922-9120
- Address: 3325 Westbourne Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45248
Due to the recent anecdotes regarding flurries being dropped from the course and ice cream being present (specifically vanilla, 90% of the way down), visitors are recommended to be active customers to experience all of the amenities that are provided to them.