Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Reviews: What People Are Saying About Putting Zoo
Putting Zoo in Puyallup, WA, consistently scores a solid 4.6 stars, but digging deeper into customer reviews reveals a delightfully quirky and sometimes frustrating experience. It seems this isn’t your pristine, modern miniature golf destination – rather, a nostalgic and well-loved, if somewhat worn, family entertainment center. Many reviewers mention a long-standing relationship with the course, recalling childhood visits and now bringing their own children. However, others point to noticeable disrepair. The price point – a very affordable $9.50 per round – is a common highlight, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families.
Here's a breakdown of the recurring themes:
- The Good: Affordability, friendly staff, a sense of nostalgia, and the availability of multiple activities (miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages) are consistently praised. Several mentions highlight the luck of winning free rounds, adding to the value.
- The Not-So-Good: A persistent complaint revolves around the course’s condition. Words like "beat up," "dump," and "run down" are used frequently. Specific issues include poorly maintained bathrooms, and unexpected hazards within the courses themselves – like an uncovered well leading to an unseen area under a gazebo (referred to as “Narnia”!).
- The Unique: The courses themselves are described as both “fun and intricate” with “many moving parts,” but also prone to causing motion sickness – one group reported the spinning hole induced nausea in all five members.
Beyond the Putter: Other Attractions at Putting Zoo
While the miniature golf course is the namesake, Putting Zoo offers more to keep visitors entertained. The go-karts receive significant positive attention; reviewers of all ages, including a 63-year-old, express genuine enjoyment, emphasizing the simple fun. One reviewer offered a 'pro-tip' for the go-karts: “if you drive like you're an actual racer you don't need to take your foot off the gas!” The batting cages are also remarkably affordable, with a price of just $1 per session.
Here's a quick look at all the available activities:
| Activity | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Miniature Golf | $9.50/Round | Two courses available |
| Go-Karts | Price Not Listed | Popular with all ages |
| Batting Cages | $1/Session | Incredibly affordable |
It’s clear that Putting Zoo positions itself as a place for all-day, affordable family fun, and the variety of options contributes to this appeal.
Accessibility and Family Friendliness: A Welcoming Space?
Putting Zoo actively advertises its accessibility features, and reviews back this up. The facility boasts both a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, making it easier for all to enjoy. The course is explicitly stated as "good for kids," and numerous reviewers corroborate this claim, noting how much their children enjoyed the experience.
However, it's worth noting a potential drawback. While great for kids, the course’s somewhat dilapidated condition could present trip hazards or other safety concerns for very young children or those with mobility issues. The unexpected features, like the aforementioned well, while amusing to some, might be alarming for others.
Here's a quick rundown of the family-friendly aspects:
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking.
- Kid-Friendly: Consistently praised by parents.
- Affordability: Low prices make it budget-friendly for families.
- Multiple Activities: Keeps kids (and adults) engaged for longer.
Customer Concerns & The Value Proposition
Several reviews highlight a central tension: the business appears to be generating substantial revenue, yet reinvestment into upkeep seems minimal. This leads to a contrast between the affordable price and the perceived lack of maintenance. The sentiment is that while the value is there due to the low cost, a small amount of investment could dramatically improve the overall experience.
Here’s a sampling of customer commentary:
"It’s surprising to see that none of it is going into the business. Can’t even repaint or clean a bathroom, place is a dump."
"It's not perfect but it's so much fun my kids can't get enough of it and really well priced love it."
"The course was very beat up. It doesn't feel like a lot of thought was put into it."
This suggests that Putting Zoo relies heavily on its loyal customer base and the nostalgia factor, offering a casual, unpretentious experience rather than a polished, premium one. For some, this is exactly the appeal - a throwback to simpler times. For others, it's a source of frustration.
Contact Information:
- Address: 6326 114th Ave Ct E, Puyallup, WA 98372
- Phone: (253) 841-1234
- Hours: Daily 3-8 PM (consistent hours across all days of the week)