Pros 
Cons A Hole-in-One for Fun: First Impressions of Puttery
Puttery in Richmond, Virginia, consistently earns high marks – currently boasting a 4.7-star rating – and for good reason. This isn’t your grandfather’s miniature golf. Located at 1647 Four Rings Dr, the facility offers a modern and surprisingly sophisticated take on the classic pastime. Reviewers consistently highlight the thoughtful design and unique blend of indoor and outdoor courses.
The appeal seems to stem from a deliberate choice to elevate the experience. It’s not just about navigating whimsical obstacles; it’s about enjoying a well-maintained, creatively landscaped environment. The course presents a balanced challenge, appealing to both casual players and those looking to test their putting skills. Several visitors specifically praised the topiaries, noting the artistry of the dolphin, butterfly, and dog sculptures integrated into the course design.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what Puttery offers:
- Course Variety: 18 holes total, split between indoor and outdoor sections.
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with designated entrance, parking, and restrooms.
- Family-Friendly: Widely considered good for kids, making it an excellent choice for family outings.
- Convenience: Free parking and multiple payment options (credit, debit, NFC mobile payments).
- Operating Hours: Conveniently open seven days a week, with extended hours on weekends. (See below for specific times)
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 12 PM – 10 PM |
| Tuesday | 12 PM – 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 PM – 10 PM |
| Thursday | 12 PM – 10 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Saturday | 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Sunday | 10 AM – 10 PM |
Weather Considerations & Course Layout Feedback
While Puttery receives abundant praise, the outdoor portion of the course does come with a caveat: the weather. Several reviews mention that the Richmond summer heat can make enjoying the outdoor holes significantly less pleasant. Specifically, customers note a lack of shade and breezes, particularly in the inner section of the outdoor course.
“It was too hot to fully enjoy the outdoor course…the inner part of the outdoors course had no breeze and very little shade. It would be so much better if there was a little more shade and maybe some fans.”
This isn’t to say it’s unplayable in warmer temperatures, but the experience is undeniably enhanced when the weather cooperates. The thoughtful design of the indoor course provides a comfortable alternative during less-than-ideal outdoor conditions. Visitors specifically appreciate the layout of the course, noting the comfortable seating and convenient areas to rest scorecards and pencils. The ability to bring drinks from a nearby driving range to the course also adds to the relaxed atmosphere.
Service with a (Sometimes Missing) Smile
The general consensus regarding Puttery’s staff is positive, with many reviewers highlighting their friendliness and cleanliness. One outstanding mention specifically calls out server Thomas as “super cool” and deserving of a 10/10 rating. However, a significant point of concern arises in several reviews regarding drink service.
It appears there can be inconsistencies in how drink orders are handled. Some customers report receiving attentive service, while others experienced a frustrating lack of assistance, being directed to the wrong location or finding no staff available to take orders.
- One reviewer shared an experience where they were directed to an unoccupied third floor, only to be met with indifference from staff.
- Another mentioned spending an hour without anyone taking drink orders, despite a $40 spend.
This inconsistency in service is the most prominent criticism of Puttery and represents an area for improvement. Improved communication and staffing levels during peak hours could significantly enhance the overall customer experience.
Beyond the Putts: A Vibe Worth Visiting
Despite some service hiccups, Puttery continues to attract positive attention for its overall “vibe.” The facility consistently receives praise for its cleanliness, particularly the restrooms, which is often a welcome observation from customers. The combination of indoor and outdoor play, the artistic topiaries, and the convenient amenities contribute to a unique and enjoyable experience.
A notable anecdote highlights the willingness of Puttery staff to accommodate guests, even allowing a customer to test out the course before it officially opened. This commitment to customer satisfaction reinforces the positive sentiment surrounding the establishment. The blend of a challenging course, a pleasant atmosphere, and generally friendly service makes Puttery a worthwhile destination—especially when the Richmond weather is cooperating—and a local favorite for an evening of friendly competition.