Pros 
Cons A Glowing (and Sometimes Grimy) Report: First Impressions of Glowgolf
Glowgolf in Garden City, NY, offers a decidedly unique experience in the world of miniature golf. With a 3.5-star rating, it sits in a curious middle ground, and customer reviews paint a picture of a venue riddled with quirks, both charming and concerning. Located inside the Roosevelt Field Mall, Glowgolf aims for a vibrant, blacklight aesthetic, but the execution, according to many patrons, leaves something to be desired.
The facility itself appears to be a repurposed space – many believe it once housed a Sam Goody store. This leads to a somewhat unconventional layout, with holes tucked into former office areas. While this adds to the unusual charm for some, it also contributes to issues reported by visitors. Several reviews mention a state of disrepair: falling ceiling tiles, holes in the walls, overflowing trash cans, and even plumbing pipes exposed. The blacklights themselves aren’t always functioning optimally, leaving sections of the course dimly lit.
However, the quantity of holes is undeniably impressive – boasting over 28 – appealing particularly to those with energetic little ones. One reviewer noted their small children were oblivious to the disrepair, focusing instead on the sheer number of opportunities to swing their putters. It's worth noting accessibility seems well-considered with both wheelchair accessible entrances and parking lots available.
The Good, The Bad, and The Broken: Course Conditions & Gameplay
Gameplay at Glowgolf seems to be a decidedly mixed bag. The primary complaint revolves around the condition of the putting surfaces. Forget artificial turf or concrete; many report playing on worn carpeting, which detracts from the traditional miniature golf challenge. Expect minimal bank shots, ramps, or anything particularly dynamic. Several customers dubbed the course “boring,” and lamented the lack of moving obstacles like windmills.
Here's a summarized breakdown of the issues related to the course itself:
- Surface Quality: Predominantly worn carpet instead of traditional putting greens.
- Hole Functionality: A significant number of holes are frequently reported as being out of service.
- Obstacles: A lack of variety and challenging elements; minimal moving obstacles.
- Lighting: Inconsistent blacklight functionality, creating dark areas.
- Maintenance: General disrepair with visible damage to walls and ceilings.
Despite these drawbacks, the artistic designs on the walls were frequently praised, suggesting someone put effort into the aesthetic despite the overall state of the facility. There is even a 'reward' for skilled players: sinking a putt in the final hole earns a free return trip!
Customer Service & Value: Navigating The Glowgolf Experience
Customer interactions at Glowgolf appear to be the most consistent positive aspect of the experience. Multiple reviewers specifically commended the friendly and helpful staff at the front desk, particularly mentioning a manager named Bianca who went above and beyond to accommodate Groupon customers whose vouchers were nearing expiration. This level of service salvaged the experience for some who were initially disappointed with the course itself.
However, the overall value proposition depends heavily on the price paid. While the regular price for 6 people ($78) may feel steep given the conditions, many customers successfully utilized Groupons, drastically reducing the cost (down to $31 for 6 in some cases). This made the experience significantly more palatable, even if it wasn’t perfect.
Consider these points regarding value and logistics:
- Groupon Deals: Frequently available and highly recommended for a more affordable experience.
- Staff Friendliness: Consistently praised in reviews.
- Temperature: Inconsistent reports – some found it comfortable, others experienced excessive heat.
- Bathroom Access: Reported to be somewhat distant from the course area.
- Mall Hours: Be mindful of Roosevelt Field Mall's closing time, as it can disrupt play.
Beyond the Putt: Amenities & The Unique Vibe of Glowgolf
Glowgolf doesn't offer extensive amenities, lacking a restaurant or extensive arcade beyond a recently installed claw machine. However, it attempts to create a unique atmosphere. One reviewer amusingly described the party room as resembling a scene from a psychological thriller, which, while not necessarily a selling point, certainly sets it apart. The space has apparently recently benefited from a community service art project from a nearby high school, which, while sincere, contributes to the "amateur" look noted by one visitor.
The location within Roosevelt Field Mall presents both advantages and disadvantages. The convenience of being in a busy shopping center is offset by the potential for mall closures impacting playtime. The course seems to attract a range of patrons: families with young children seeking inexpensive entertainment, couples looking for a quirky date night, and groups of friends wanting a casual outing.
Here's a quick snapshot:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amenities | No Restaurant, limited arcade (claw machine) |
| Atmosphere | Unique, slightly dilapidated, with artistic touches |
| Crowd | Families, couples, small groups |
| Location | Inside Roosevelt Field Mall |
| Party Room | Described as "psychological thriller" in aesthetic |