Pros 
Cons A Tale of Two Courses: Design vs. Playability
Puttery in Raleigh, located within the Drive Shack complex at 6901 Play Golf Wy, presents a curious case. Many reviewers note the visually appealing setup – a definite strength. The courses are meticulously maintained and offer a fun aesthetic, suggesting a strong initial investment in theming. However, the praise largely stops at appearance. Several visitors found that while perfectly Instagrammable, the actual mini golf experience falls short. The course design itself is a point of contention. While some holes offer little challenge, others border on frustratingly difficult.
One reviewer bluntly stated the course “is good for taking pictures but to play golf is bad.” This sentiment echoes throughout the reviews, suggesting a prioritization of visual spectacle over genuinely engaging gameplay. The promise of “all you can play” on four immersive courses is also misleading, as Puttery Raleigh only offers two 9-hole courses – effectively one full 18-hole round. This discrepancy leaves a sour taste for those expecting a more extensive experience.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the general consensus:
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Visual Design | Positive |
| Course Difficulty | Mixed |
| Value for Money | Below Average |
| "All You Can Play" Claim | Misleading |
Conflicting Policies and Questionable Promos
Adding to the confusion, several customers pointed out inconsistencies in Puttery Raleigh’s advertised policies. The website initially states “no kids allowed,” yet the venue offers children’s pricing. This raises questions about the intended audience and overall clarity of operations. The advertised "themed cocktails only available at each unique course" also appears to be a marketing misstep. Instead of bespoke drinks tailored to each course’s theme, patrons are directed to the Drive Shack menu and face overpriced, unremarkable beverages.
This pattern of unmet expectations raises concerns about transparent communication and accurate representation of services. The fact that Drive Shack itself is similarly priced (and often cheaper for larger groups) further diminishes Puttery’s appeal. While the venue boasts accessibility features like wheelchair accessible entrances and parking, the customer experience, based on these reviews, seems to lack accessibility in terms of clear and honest information.
Food, Drinks, and Service: A Mixed Plate
The accounts of the food and beverage service at Puttery aren’t particularly appetizing. Multiple reviewers reported receiving cold and stale food. Adding insult to injury, drinks were described as "watered down" and, unsurprisingly, expensive. While the overall experience isn’t ruined by this, it certainly doesn’t enhance it.
However, not all experiences were negative. One review specifically praised Liz and Les for their attentive and fantastic service. This suggests that the quality of service can vary significantly, highlighting a potential inconsistency within the staff. It's a testament to individual employees, but doesn’t salvage the broader concern about food and drink quality.
Here's what visitors had to say:
- “Food was cold & stale.”
- “Drinks were watered down- and expensive.”
- “Liz and Les did a fantastic job…very attentive!”
Comparisons and Alternatives: Is Puttery Worth It?
The consensus leans towards a lukewarm recommendation. At a Sunday price point of $15, some find the experience “not absolutely terrible,” but many emphasize that alternatives offer better value and entertainment. The frequent comparison to Drive Shack is unavoidable – and often unfavorable. Drive Shack, offering a broader range of activities at a similar or lower price (especially for groups), tends to provide a more complete entertainment experience.
One reviewer specifically suggests visiting the Puttery location in Charlotte if the opportunity arises, indicating a potential disparity in quality between locations.
Ultimately, Puttery Raleigh seems geared towards those prioritizing a visually appealing backdrop for social media, rather than serious mini-golf enthusiasts. For a dedicated mini-golf experience, other, more focused venues might prove more satisfying. It's a fun night out for some, but the inconsistencies and unmet expectations leave much to be desired.