Pros 
Cons A Course in Transition: What Players Are Saying About Adventure Falls
Adventure Falls Sprayground, Mini Golf & Sport Courts in Downers Grove is proving to be…complicated. A 4.3-star rating suggests a generally positive experience, but a deep dive into recent reviews reveals a course in a state of flux, leaving some players delighted and others disappointed. The central issue seems to be the recent removal of traditional obstacles, a change hotly debated by frequent visitors.
Many appreciate the affordability – especially with Groupon deals that bring a round down to $2.50 per person – and the overall atmosphere. Several reviewers specifically mention it's a “fun place to mini golf” and “worth it for $5.” The park’s family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the sprayground are consistently highlighted as positives, making it a convenient destination for a day out with kids.
However, the missing spinners, ramps, and other classic mini golf fun are a pain point for those who remember the “old” Adventure Falls. The current setup, described as "18 holes of putting greens with very little to no challenge," leaves many feeling underwhelmed. One reviewer compared it unfavorably to the course at the Morton Arboretum, stating their children found it “boring.” The park has attempted to mitigate this with randomly placed wooden shapes meant to create player-designed obstacles, but this doesn’t seem to fully address the desire for pre-built challenges.
| Feature | Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Extremely affordable, Groupon deals | N/A |
| Family-Friendly | Water area for kids, good for all ages | N/A |
| Course Design | Fun for quick play | Lacks challenge, obstacles removed |
| Facilities | Sport courts available | Some courses “busted” |
Navigating the Amenities: More Than Just Putt-Putt
Adventure Falls isn't just a mini golf destination. The complex offers a sprayground and sport courts, broadening its appeal. The sprayground, with designated areas for different age groups, receives praise for thoughtful design. One reviewer noted this "was a good idea." However, access to the sprayground always requires a fee, even if a visitor is solely there for the mini golf.
The sport courts appear well-maintained and reasonably busy, though reviews focus primarily on the mini golf and sprayground experience. Beyond the core activities, the convenience of on-site snack options - ice cream being specifically mentioned - is a pleasant bonus. It's also worth noting the course is cash-only, which could be a minor inconvenience for some visitors.
Customer Service Concerns: Open Doors and Open Communication?
A significant number of reviews point to inconsistent operating hours and a perceived lack of communication. One particularly frustrated reviewer drove 45 minutes to discover the course was closed despite the website and Google displaying open hours. Repeated attempts to contact the management proved fruitless, leading to accusations of “horrible customer service.” This experience is a stark outlier, but it raises questions about reliability of the posted schedule and responsiveness to customer inquiries.
This negative experience prompted the reviewer to seek out Miner Mike's Adventure Golf in Hickory Hills, which they found to be open, enjoyable, and less crowded. This highlights the importance of accurate information and proactive communication for attracting and retaining customers, particularly when competing with other nearby entertainment options.
“So very upset with this place!…If you’re not going to be open at least update your hours…” - Disappointed Customer
The Future of the Course: Potential & Hope for Improvement
Despite the current frustrations, many reviewers express a fondness for Adventure Falls based on past experiences, and a hopeful outlook for future improvements. Several mention visiting the location for decades (“since 1998”) and acknowledge it’s undergone changes over time. There's a consensus that when the water features are functioning, the course becomes significantly more appealing.
The suggestion that the park district is considering upgrades is a source of optimism. Reintroducing some degree of challenge to the mini golf course, whether through updated obstacles or a redesigned layout, would likely address the core complaint voiced by many. The low cost of entry often softens the blows of the minimal challenges, but a revitalized course could elevate the experience from “cheap fun” to genuinely enjoyable for all ages. The current operating hours of 10 AM - 6 PM, seven days a week, provide ample opportunity to visit, if you can confirm they are open.