Pros 
Cons A Tale of Two Courses: Exploring Mulligan's Island's Mini Golf Experience
Mulligan’s Island in Cranston, Rhode Island, consistently earns a solid 4.2-star rating, and after looking at what patrons have to say, it’s clear why it’s a popular destination for family fun. The core attraction is, of course, the miniature golf, and Mulligan’s boasts two separate 18-hole courses: a pirate ship themed course and a volcano course. Players report both are enjoyable and feature plenty of water features, adding to the challenge and aesthetic appeal. It’s a place where skillful putting is rewarded, and even a little bit of luck can go a long way.
However, many comments point to a growing need for some TLC. While still "great," a recurring theme is the course showing its age. Several reviewers note that wooden fencing and decorations are falling apart. One user mentions being able to watch their nephews and cousins struggle with entertaining 'hard spots'— suggesting a slightly unpredictable, yet engaging, course layout. Despite the wear and tear, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive experience, especially considering the affordability. It’s a budget-friendly option for a larger group looking for a fun outing.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Courses | Pirate Ship & Volcano – 18 holes each |
| Difficulty | Moderate; some challenging holes |
| Atmosphere | Family-friendly, relaxed |
| Condition | Showing wear, some decaying decorations |
| Value | Inexpensive, good for groups |
Beyond the Putt: Amenities & Accessibility at Mulligan's Island
Mulligan's Island clearly aims to be more than just a mini golf course. The facilities extend beyond the greens to include driving range and batting cages, adding extra layers of entertainment. A past offering of pitch and putt and a par 3 course have been missed by some reviewers, who feel bringing those back would elevate the location’s potential and draw in more golf enthusiasts.
Accessibility is a strong point. The park is fully wheelchair accessible, with designated parking, entrance ramps, and restrooms designed for inclusivity. This makes it a welcoming space for all families and individuals. Service options are clearly onsite. The variety of payment methods accepted—credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments—adds to the convenience. While there’s no restaurant on-site, snacks and drinks are available for purchase, perfect for refueling mid-game.
Key Amenities:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms
- Batting cages
- Driving range
- Snack and drink availability
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- LGBTQ+ and Transgender safespace
A Contrast of Experiences: The Highs and Lows
The range of reviews highlights a dichotomy at Mulligan's Island. While many describe an “incredible time” and a "true paradise," others express significant disappointment. The glowing reviews praise the beautifully landscaped gardens, intricate course details (like dinosaur bones and a realistic volcano), and the overall value for the $14 per person entry fee. One reviewer specifically notes the shade provided by trees, a welcome relief on a hot day.
However, concern over course maintenance is a consistent negative theme. One patron described the course as “uninspired, tired, and old,” and voiced frustration over losing golf balls in murky, unmaintained water traps. Retrieving balls requires physically reaching into potentially unsanitary water – a clear deterrent. This raises concerns about cleanliness and upkeep, and suggests investment in repairs and imaginative redesign is needed. The experience clearly varies significantly depending on expectations and tolerance for wear.
“It has two 18 holes of miniature golf, one is a pirate ship course and the other is the volcano course. They were equally as fun. All the kids enjoyed it.” - A testament to the courses’ enduring appeal despite their condition.
Location, Convenience, and Community Connection
Located at 1000 New London Ave in Cranston, RI, Mulligan’s Island benefits from a convenient location with easy highway access and ample free parking. This makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The park also seems to be establishing itself as a venue for community events, with mentions of concerts hosted on the main field.
The leisurely atmosphere encourages relaxed enjoyment, perfect for families wanting to distract their little ones. The presence of a lemonade stand adds a touch of classic summer fun. Ultimately, Mulligan’s Island feels like a local spot with the potential to become a larger attraction, particularly if the suggestions for restoring the pitch and putt and par 3 courses are considered. The phone number is readily available at (401) 464-8855 for those looking to plan a visit or inquire about event schedules.