Pros 
Cons A Family-Friendly, Yet Faded, Experience
Essex Family Fun & Entertainment Center presents itself as a convenient option for families seeking a classic, screen-free outing. Many visitors echo this sentiment, noting its welcoming atmosphere and suitability for children. It's lauded as a relaxed environment where families can enjoy quality time together. The miniature golf course itself offers a variety of creatively designed holes that successfully engage younger players. However, a consistent theme emerges from recent reviews: the facility is showing its age.
Several patrons report worn turf, faded features, and generally needing maintenance improvements. While these imperfections don’t necessarily ruin the fun, they detract from the overall experience, especially considering the cost. It's not a “flashy” location, as one reviewer described, but the lack of upkeep prevents it from reaching its full potential as a local favorite. The course boasts wheelchair accessibility, including entrances, parking, and restrooms, which is a significant plus for inclusivity.
The Price of Play & Payment Quirks
The cost of a round of miniature golf at Essex Family Fun & Entertainment Center is a frequent point of contention. Recent reviews cite discrepancies between online pricing and the actual prices charged at the door. This can be frustrating for visitors who were expecting a different rate. The price for a single adult and child was reported at $22, while two adults and one three-year old clocked in at $32. Several reviewers point out that this price point feels high given the condition of the course.
Adding to the pricing issues is the fact that Essex Family Fun & Entertainment Center is a cash-only business. This policy is often unexpected, and requires a trip to an ATM – often incurring additional fees. Multiple reviewers expressed disappointment and criticized the lack of modern payment options (credit, debit, or NFC mobile payments are reportedly accepted as stated on their front page, but are not in practice). One reviewer humorously notes a potential business opportunity for competition, suggesting even a converted junk yard could thrive by offering an alternative with more up-to-date amenities.
Course Condition: A Tale of Disrepair
The overarching impression of the mini golf course is one of neglect. While the basic structure and layout remain intact, many reviewers detail a visible decline in maintenance. The artificial features, like pools, fountains, and simulated rivers, are often described as “eyesores” with broken plumbing, chipped paint, and stagnant water.
Here's a breakdown of specific issues consistently mentioned:
- Turf: Torn, wrinkled, and stained green carpet on the holes.
- Stonework: Broken, crumbling, and misaligned.
- Hole Mechanics: Malfunctioning features that once allowed for easy hole-in-ones.
- Overall Aesthetic: Dated and in need of refreshment.
One reviewer wryly admits the facility likely appears to always be busy given it's the only option locally and suggests it's benefiting from a lack of competition. Despite these negatives, some users remain pragmatic, acknowledging it's still "fun" in a basic sense.
Beyond Mini Golf: Amenities & Accessibility
Beyond miniature golf, Essex Family Fun & Entertainment Center seems to also offer batting cages, which are a notable perk stated by one frequent visitor. The facility clearly aims to be family-friendly, and actively promotes this aspect. Amenities include standard restrooms and a gender-neutral restroom option, bolstering its accessibility features.
Here's a quick overview of available features:
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Gender-Neutral Restroom | Yes |
| Standard Restrooms | Yes |
| Restaurant | No |
| Batting Cages | Yes |
While service isn’t described as exceptionally attentive, staff are consistently reported as friendly and efficient in providing access to the activities. The center is conveniently located at 48 Upper Main St, Essex Junction, VT 05452, and maintains consistent operating hours throughout the week (10 AM – 7:30 PM). One user states they regularly visit for the convenience of the batting cages.