Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Memories: Putt-Putt Golf & Games Reviewed
Putt-Putt Golf & Games in Memphis consistently earns a 4.2-star rating, but recent reviews paint a picture of a venue desperately needing some TLC while still managing to deliver fun experiences for many. It appears customer experiences are heavily influenced by what they're there to do. While the facility boasts a variety of entertainment options – miniature golf, go-karts, an arcade, and even a golf range – it's the condition of the courses and the consistency of service that seem to be the main sticking points. The location at 5484 Summer Ave is easily accessible, offering wheelchair accessibility in both parking and restrooms, noting a commitment to inclusivity.
Here's a breakdown of what customers are saying:
- The Good: Birthday parties are a major draw, with praise consistently given to the accommodating and patient staff. The quick service and clean party rooms elevate the experience. Go-karts are a hit, especially with teenagers, providing lasting enjoyment. The atmosphere among patrons is described as relaxed and friendly, adding to the overall atmosphere.
- The Not-So-Good: The miniature golf courses themselves are a significant area of concern. Multiple reviewers note they are “dilapidated,” “outdated,” and “in sad shape.” Recurring complaints mention broken water features, worn putting surfaces, and even the need to sweep pine needles before playing.
- Arcade Issues: A common thread throughout the reviews is the number of non-functional arcade games. This detracts from the overall value and can be frustrating for customers.
- Service Inconsistencies: While some staff members are lauded for their friendliness, others are accused of being excessively preoccupied with their phones, hindering their ability to provide assistance. This inconsistency is a point of frustration for some visitors.
Diving Deeper into the Golfing Experience
The miniature golf course is the core offering, and the feedback is undeniably mixed. Visitors clearly remember a time when Putt-Putt Golf & Games was a more polished destination. Now, the courses seem to be suffering from neglect. The confusion surrounding the three courses – lacking clear markings – adds to the frustration.
Here’s a more detailed look at concerns:
| Issue | Frequency of Mention | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Worn Putting Surfaces | High | Gameplay Quality |
| Broken Water Features | Medium | Aesthetic Appeal |
| Lack of Course Marking | Medium | Navigation/Frustration |
| Debris on Course | Low | Gameplay Quality |
Despite these shortcomings, the low price point ($9 mentioned in one review) leads some to believe it still provides reasonable entertainment, “be it from trying to figure out which hole you’re supposed to go to or from putting lol”. However, it’s clear the courses are preventing the venue from reaching its full potential.
Beyond the Putter: Other Attractions & Amenities
While miniature golf is receiving the most critical attention, it's important to acknowledge the other offerings at Putt-Putt Golf & Games. The availability of go-karts is a significant plus, especially appreciated by older children and teenagers. The presence of a restaurant and restrooms are basic but essential amenities.
The facility is notably family-friendly and explicitly caters to children, featuring a playground in addition to the arcade and other attractions. Accessibility is well-addressed with wheelchair access provided for entrances, parking, and restrooms – a welcome attribute.
However, even these areas aren’t without issues. One review pointed out an extremely dirty outdoor patio area covered in bird droppings and spiderwebs, and the food was described as bland. This highlights a general trend of needing improved maintenance and attention to detail throughout the entire facility.
Service & Staff: A Tale of Two Experiences
The staff at Putt-Putt Golf & Games appear to be a point of inconsistency. Many reviewers specifically praise the staff during birthday parties, highlighting their friendliness, helpfulness, and patience. This suggests a team capable of providing excellent service when focused on event management. However, several complaints center around staff inattentiveness.
“Some "not all" of the employees were too tied up in their phones to be of any use, I've got a big problem with that…where I come from we go to work to EARN our money not play on a phone.”
This feedback suggests a need for management to address employee behavior and ensure a consistently high level of customer service. Additionally, the review mentioning short staffing and delayed opening of attractions on a Sunday raises concerns about operational efficiency and potentially impacts the overall customer experience. While a relaxed and friendly customer atmosphere is a strong plus, better staff engagement could significantly improve the venue's reputation. The current hours, spanning 9 AM to 11 PM most days, and 8 AM on Saturdays, offer ample opportunity for improvement with adequate staffing.