A Surprisingly Delightful Experience
Kelly Park Mini-Golf, nestled within Fort Bliss, consistently receives positive feedback and boasts a solid 4.1-star rating. What immediately sets it apart is the price—it's free! Many reviewers express surprise at this, noting that it’s a fantastic, budget-friendly activity, especially for families. The course itself is described as surprisingly challenging, going beyond the typical easy-going miniature golf experience. Players can expect a bit of a workout for their putting skills.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it appealing:
- Cost: Free to play! Clubs and balls are readily available in a building near the entrance.
- Maintenance: Consistently described as “well-maintained,” indicating a clear effort to keep the course in good condition.
- Challenge: It's not just a simple putt-putt; there's a decent level of difficulty to keep things interesting.
- Shade: Appreciated by many, the course offers a good amount of shade, which is valuable in the Texas heat.
Beyond Just Golf: A Park Within a Park
Kelly Park Mini-Golf isn’t an isolated attraction; it’s part of a larger recreational area within the park. Reviewers frequently highlight the additional amenities, making it a one-stop shop for family fun. The splash pad, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is a major draw for younger children and provides a cool respite from the sun.
Beyond the splash pad and the miniature golf, visitors can find:
- Volleyball courts for some competitive play.
- Picnic tables – perfect for packing a lunch and enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
- A general park area for relaxing.
However, it’s worth noting that some visitors feel the fenced perimeter of the area can feel a little restricting. Despite this, the abundance of activities within the fenced space clearly outweighs this concern for most.
Hours and Accessibility: Planning Your Visit
While the park is generally open during posted hours, reviews suggest verifying directly, particularly on weekends. There's a reported discrepancy regarding Sunday hours, with one reviewer mentioning it wasn’t open despite being listed as such. Here's a breakdown of the current listed schedule:
Day | Hours |
---|---|
Friday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
Monday | Closed |
Saturday | 10 AM – 4 PM |
Sunday | 12 PM – 4 PM |
Thursday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
Tuesday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
Wednesday | 5 PM – 7 PM |
The good news is that Kelly Park Mini-Golf is designed with accessibility in mind. Both the entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. It's a considerate feature that enhances the overall experience. To reiterate, the course appears to be open whenever the larger Kelly Park is open, according to staff.
A Local Favorite - And a Bit of a Secret
Several reviews emphasize that Kelly Park Mini-Golf feels like a bit of a hidden gem, an “underutilized part of base.” This contributes to a relaxed atmosphere, especially if you can time your visit to avoid crowds. One reviewer even mentioned having the entire course to themselves shortly after opening!
“Wow, beautiful family spot…Been here a year and were invited to view this area.”
This sentiment is echoed by others who appreciate the peaceful, well-maintained environment. The course isn't heavily publicized, leading to a more tranquil experience for those in the know. It’s a fantastic option for locals seeking affordable, family-friendly entertainment in Fort Bliss. It's clearly a spot that builds loyalty, as some reviewers expressed excitement about recently discovering this local perk.