Pros 
Cons A Course Worth Discovering: First Impressions of RMU Island Rapids
RMU Island Rapids Outdoor Miniature Golf consistently earns high marks, boasting a 4.700000 rating, and for good reason. Located at 7600 Grand Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15225, it presents itself as a delightful escape for families and golf enthusiasts alike. Many reviewers describe it as a “hidden gem,” a sentiment fueled by its relative obscurity – a plus for those seeking a less crowded experience. The course itself is praised for being well-maintained and offering “interesting” hole designs, leading some to declare it “one of the best mini golf courses” they’ve ever played.
What sets it apart isn’t just the quality of play, but also the setting. Situated with views of the Ohio River, the course offers a relaxing backdrop to a friendly competition. Several holes are designed with intentional features that allow balls to fall into the water, but with the expectation of nets to retrieve them (more on that later!). It’s readily accessible too, with wheelchair access throughout – encompassing the entrance, parking, and restrooms – making it inclusive for all.
Beyond the golf itself, RMU Island Rapids acknowledges the realities of Pittsburgh weather. As one reviewer noted, the indoor driving range provides a welcome escape from “rain. And. Winter.” offering a 100yd space with good mats, balls, and rubber tees for those wanting to practice their swing when outdoor play isn’t feasible.
Beyond the Greens: Amenities and Accessibility
RMU Island Rapids doesn’t just focus on the core experience; it enhances it with thoughtful amenities. The venue goes beyond providing a fun outdoor activity by offering a restaurant on-site for post-game snacks or meals. Restrooms are readily available, and for the digitally connected, Wi-Fi is offered (though some reports indicate it isn't consistently available) making it convenient for sharing scores and photos.
Here’s a breakdown of the amenities and accessibility features:
| Feature | Enabled |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair accessible entrance | Yes |
| Wheelchair accessible parking lot | Yes |
| Wheelchair accessible restroom | Yes |
| Restaurant | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | No |
| Family-friendly | Yes |
| Good for kids | Yes |
| Credit cards | Yes |
| Debit cards | Yes |
| NFC mobile payments | Yes |
The course is explicitly labeled as family-friendly and “good for kids” which makes it a viable option for a broader range of players. Payment options are also comprehensive, accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
Price and Practicalities: What to Expect
The affordability of RMU Island Rapids is a consistent highlight in reviews. While specific pricing might vary, recent reports place the cost around $9 per adult, with discounts sometimes available for a second round. A large bucket of 105 golf balls at the driving range costs around $15.
Here's a quick look at the operating hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
A potential inconvenience noted by some visitors is the check-in process. Due to limited staffing, players may need to check in at the adjacent golf dome, which can be mildly frustrating. However, the friendly and helpful staff – like Bill, who was specifically mentioned for addressing a course issue – are appreciated when available.
Minor setbacks and overall satisfaction.
While overwhelmingly positive, reviews do mention a small, recurring issue: the occasional missing water retrieval nets. These nets are essential for recovering balls that fall into the purposefully designed water features. One reviewer reported that the nets were missing from a couple of greens on May 21, 2023, but they were assured the issue would be addressed by the staff.
Despite this minor detail, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Players appreciate the course's beauty, its relaxing atmosphere, and its well-maintained condition. One sentiment echoes throughout all reviews: RMU Island Rapids offers a genuinely enjoyable experience and is a place people return to again and again.
"Love this place. It was so beautiful. And relaxing to play mini golf."