Pros 
Cons Glowing Reviews & Family Fun
Adventure's Mini Golf in South Philadelphia consistently earns a 4.1-star rating, and for good reason, according to many visitors. It presents itself as a solid option for indoor entertainment, particularly when the weather doesn't cooperate. Several reviews highlight its appeal for families, with one parent noting it’s a “perfect local spot to take a little one during the day.” The glow-in-the-dark aspect is a major draw, offering a unique and visually appealing experience. The course itself is noted as being challenging yet accessible, making it enjoyable for a range of ages – especially younger children. One customer specifically mentioned it as being great for all ages because the holes aren't too hard and the black lights create cool effects.
Beyond mini golf, Adventure's offers other attractions. The inclusion of an escape room seems to be a hit, with one group reporting a challenging hour-long experience. The ability to Bring Your Own Beverage (BYOB) during certain hours is also a noted perk, adding to the overall appeal, particularly for adults. The arcade, while present, receives mixed feedback (see below). The availability of party rooms is also mentioned as a positive, making it a viable option for birthday celebrations or group outings.
Here's a quick rundown of positive feedback:
- Family-Friendly: Specifically recommended for younger children.
- Unique Experience: The glow-in-the-dark setting is a popular feature.
- Additional Attractions: Escape room and arcade add variety.
- Convenient Perks: BYOB option and party rooms available.
- Air Conditioning: A lifesaver on hot days!
A Question of Ambiance & First Impressions
While Adventure's Mini Golf attracts positive reviews, a recurring theme in the negative feedback centers around the venue's atmosphere and initial impression. A concerning comment alleges rudeness from a staff member potentially stemming from racial bias, a serious accusation that cannot be ignored. Beyond this, several reviewers describe the location as "sketchy" and “in the back of a building and alleyway," raising concerns about safety, especially at night.
The physical environment also appears to be an issue. Multiple comments mention a lingering smell – initially of cigarette smoke, but later reported to be improved. Initial reports detail issues with "swampy floors" and the presence of boxes inside the mini golf area, leading one reviewer to compare the space to a “dirty strip club.” While the odor seems to have been addressed, the underlying feeling of a less-than-polished environment persists in some accounts. The overall impression is one of a venue that could benefit from significant improvements in its presentation and upkeep.
| Area of Concern | Details from Reviews |
|---|---|
| Location | Alleyway setting, feeling unsafe, especially at night |
| Cleanliness | Past issues with swampy floors, presence of storage boxes within the play area |
| Odor | Initial complaints of cigarette smoke, now seemingly improved |
| Staff | Reports of rude behavior and potential discriminatory practices |
Course Challenge & Age Appropriateness – It Varies
The difficulty of the mini golf course itself is a point of contention. While some find it "challenging" in a good way, others believe it's not suitable for older children. One reviewer reported their nine-year-old brother completed the 20 holes in just 15 minutes, deeming it too easy and not worth the price of admission. This suggests the course is likely better suited for very young children, perhaps ages 4-7, who would find the obstacles more engaging.
The course features 18 holes, but some reviewers feel the experience is relatively short – "the 18 holes go quicker than anticipated". This isn't necessarily a negative, but might lead some to expect a longer playtime for the cost. Interestingly, one visitor mentioned it wasn't a "Dave & Busters" level experience, acknowledging that the price reflects the level of entertainment. It’s important to set expectations accordingly; Adventure's offers a simpler, more focused experience.
"It was no Dave & Busters but the price was right and let's face it you get what you pay for."
Arcade Issues & Customer Service Discrepancies
The arcade at Adventure's Mini Golf appears to be a source of frustration for some customers. A significant number of machines were reported as being out of order, resulting in the need for multiple refunds. This negatively impacted the overall experience, and, crucially, the employees were described as “annoyed” when asked to address the issues. This isn't an isolated incident; the alleged rude behavior from the front desk employee (mentioned previously) contributes to a perception of inconsistent and sometimes unhelpful customer service.
Conversely, several other reviews explicitly praise the staff, describing them as “very nice” and “polite and courteous”. This creates a conflicting picture – while some customers have had positive interactions, others have encountered significant problems. It suggests a need for better staff training and a more consistent approach to customer service to ensure a welcoming experience for all visitors. The differing experiences also highlight the importance of management addressing reported issues promptly and effectively.