Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Putts: First Impressions of Ben Geren Miniature Golf
Ben Geren Miniature Golf in Fort Smith, Arkansas, presents a curious case. With a 3.7 rating, it clearly isn't inspiring universal disdain, yet a significant number of recent reviews point to a course in need of some serious attention. Located at 7200 S Zero St, the course caters to families and offers 27 holes of play for $7 per person – a price point that most find reasonable. It is open most evenings and weekends (Friday, Saturday, Thursday 1-8 PM; Sunday 1-7 PM, closed Monday & Tuesday) providing ample opportunity for a visit. Accessibility is a definite plus, boasting wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking. The facilities offer restrooms and are noted as “good for kids.” However, potential visitors should temper expectations based on a recurring theme in customer feedback: the course is showing its age.
Here's a quick overview of what to expect regarding facilities:
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Entrance | Yes |
| Wheelchair Parking | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
| Restaurant | No |
| Credit Card Payment | Yes |
The Good, The Bad, and the Nostalgia Factor
Despite the concerns about upkeep, a surprising number of patrons report having a good time. Several reviews emphasize the "laid back" atmosphere and the fun it provides for all ages. The course features interesting animal sculptures and an impressive water feature, which are often highlighted as positive aspects. Some, like one reviewer from June 2023, appreciate the course for its nostalgic value. They found it a fantastic experience, even noting a heartwarming moment when their autistic nephew genuinely engaged with the game. It’s clear that Ben Geren can provide a genuinely enjoyable outing, especially if you go in with realistic expectations.
However, the negative feedback is hard to ignore. The complaints center heavily around maintenance. Issues include:
- Torn carpeting on many holes
- Stagnant, potentially bacteria-filled water in the features
- Unplayable holes due to turf damage.
- Weeds and debris accumulating around the holes.
These problems have led some to call the condition of the mini golf course “disgusting” and “embarrassing,” reflecting a sense of disappointment with the city of Fort Smith’s apparent lack of investment in a once-loved local attraction.
Gameplay & The Hole-in-One Bonus
When the course is playable, reviews suggest a bit of strategic allowance may be needed. One visitor pointed out that they simply "discarded" the particularly damaged holes during a competitive game with their boyfriend, finding it generally workable despite the imperfections. The 27-hole layout is also frequently mentioned as a draw – more extensive than many other courses. Beyond the standard game, Ben Geren offers a unique incentive: a free round of “Gator Golf” for achieving a hole-in-one on hole 27. This unique reward adds a fun dimension to the experience and motivates players to up their game. Despite the issues with turf, some reviewers expressed their eagerness to return simply for those compelling reasons.
Venting Frustrations & Conflicting Experiences
The significant divide in opinions is perhaps the most striking aspect of Ben Geren Miniature Golf’s review profile. Several visitors report having a great experience, specifically stating they almost didn't go because of negative reviews, but are extremely glad they did. They praise the helpful and friendly staff and the overall enjoyment they had. This suggests that experiences can vary wildly.
Conversely, others express deep frustration, contending that the course is a blight on the city. These reviewers feel that the neglected state of the course reflects poorly on Fort Smith itself and express a preference for the course to be torn down rather than presented in its current condition. It’s a crucial consideration for potential visitors to weigh these differing perspectives. It appears that the course's condition is a consistently fluctuating factor in the overall customer experience.