Pros 
Cons A Galaxy of Fun: First Impressions of Invaders from Planet Putt
Invaders from Planet Putt in Orlando consistently receives high marks, boasting a stellar 4.7 rating. Located conveniently at 6000 Universal Blvd, this indoor miniature golf course appears to offer a uniquely themed experience. Many visitors rave about the immersive atmosphere, with comments highlighting the detailed decorations, moving parts, and a charming storyline woven throughout the two courses – a sci-fi themed side and a spooky haunted version. Several reviewers specifically mentioned the creativity infused into each hole, noting rhymes and quirky tales of alien invasions that add an extra layer of engagement. The facility provides accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms, ensuring inclusivity for all patrons. Payment options are modern and convenient, accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, and it’s clearly geared toward families with a "good for kids" designation.
- The Themes: Two distinct 18-hole courses – Sci-Fi vs. Spooky – offer replay value and cater to different preferences.
- Atmosphere: Described as “straight from a movie set” and "very well done," the theming elevates the experience beyond basic mini golf.
- Family-Friendly: Positive feedback consistently centers around enjoyment for children, even first-timers.
- Amenities: Lockers and refreshment options are available, though a dedicated restaurant is currently not on site.
- Cooling Features: Misters strategically placed throughout the course are a welcome respite on hot Florida days.
Course Challenges and Playtime Dynamics
The courses at Invaders from Planet Putt aren’t simply about easy putts. Reviewers frequently mention a challenging design, which is generally seen as a positive, but it does come with a caveat – potential wait times, especially during peak hours. Those who played both courses back to back observed the sci-fi course was particularly demanding. Navigating a crowded course can diminish the experience, as noted by those who found themselves waiting at every hole. However, the “spooky side” seemed to alleviate this somewhat, with players reporting a bit more breathing room to capture photos and videos. A crucial tip for nighttime players surfaces repeatedly: be mindful of stray golf balls! The bouncy nature of the balls, coupled with low lighting, increases the risk of losing them.
| Course Theme | Difficulty | Typical Wait Times | Night Play Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sci-Fi | High | Significant | High risk of lost balls |
| Spooky | Medium-High | Moderate | Moderate risk of lost balls |
Value Proposition and Local Context
While Invaders from Planet Putt consistently earns praise for its entertainment value, the price point is frequently identified as being “a bit pricey”. However, visitors largely acknowledge this is to be expected given the prime location within the Universal Boardwalk area. Discounts are available, and a fun quiz integrated into the course offers the chance to win further savings, adding an incentive to engage with the theme. Staying on location at the boardwalk also allows for easy access to other attractions and dining options. The immersive nature of the courses stands out, offering more than just a typical mini golf outing. Reviewers note the unusual elements and moving parts add to the overall excitement.
The Shadow Side: Customer Service Concerns
Unfortunately, a recurring and serious complaint casts a shadow over the generally positive reviews. A particularly detailed account describes a troubling experience involving overselling of tickets and misleading information regarding refunds. One employee allegedly promised a full refund if the course proved too crowded, only for subsequent employees and a manager to deny this claim outright – with the employees even lying about having ever offered a refund. The frustrated customer, visiting from out of state, emphasizes that the issue isn't about the monetary loss, but about fundamental honesty and customer decency. This isolated incident, however stark, raises significant concerns about the consistency of customer service practices at Invaders from Planet Putt and the potential for miscommunication or deceptive tactics. Several patrons have noted that management is quick to defend itself in similar reviews, potentially dismissing valid concerns.