A Hole-in-One for Entertainment: First Impressions of Holey Moley
Holey Moley Golf Club in downtown San Antonio aims to be more than just a miniature golf course; it’s an experience. Boasting 27 uniquely themed holes spread across three sections, the venue also features a full restaurant and bar, alongside karaoke rooms. The initial impression is vibrant and lively, though some visitors quickly note a slightly cramped layout. The music, while adding to the energetic atmosphere, can be overwhelmingly loud, making conversation difficult both inside and outside. This spot certainly leans into the ‘fun’ aspect, but knowing a loud environment is expected is key. Accessibility is a plus, with both wheelchair accessible entrances and parking available, making it inclusive for a wider range of visitors. Families will also find it welcoming, as it's explicitly noted as “good for kids”.
Here's a quick rundown of what Holey Moley offers:
- Location: 849 E Commerce St #171, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Hours: Varies daily, typically 10 AM - 12 AM (Fridays & Saturdays), 10 AM - 11 PM (Weekdays). Sunday hours start at 11 AM and close at 10 PM.
- Payment Options: Accepts both Credit and Debit cards.
- Facilities: Restaurant, Restrooms, Wheelchair Accessibility.
Food, Drinks, & Service: A Mixed Bag
Customer feedback regarding the food and drink experience at Holey Moley is…varied. While many praise the quality of the food – particularly the Steak Sammy and Double Bogey burger – caveats apply. The Steak Sammy, though delicious, is a substantial cut of meat, proving difficult to manage as an actual sandwich (a fork and knife are often necessary). The gluten-free bun option receives high marks, demonstrating attention to dietary needs, but comes at an added $2 cost. Portion sizes, however, are a recurring complaint; several reviewers mentioned smaller servings for the price point.
The bar side of things seems to be where more disappointment arises. Non-alcoholic drinks are served in small, childlike plastic cups, and alcoholic options, like the $15 “Sugar Caddy”, are criticized for being mostly ice in a standard red Solo cup. This has prompted some to suggest that Holey Moley isn’t necessarily the destination for a beverage-focused outing.
Service quality also presents inconsistencies. While individual servers are often described as friendly and attentive (a shout-out to Tiffany!), larger parties frequently take precedence, leading to significant wait times for regular customers.
Item | Price (Approx.) | Reviews |
---|---|---|
Steak Sammy | $20+ | Delicious, difficult to eat |
Double Bogey | $20+ | Very large portion |
Fries (side) | $2 | Generous portion |
Sugar Caddy | $15 | Mostly ice |
Slushy | $8 | Small portion |
Teeing Off: The Putt Putt Experience Itself
Despite the potential drawbacks of crowding and noise, the putt putt course itself is the main attraction and generally receives positive reviews. The 27 holes all feature creative and engaging themes, providing a unique experience beyond the typical miniature golf layout. Each nine-hole "course" is relatively small (around 30'x50') and enclosed, which contributes to the potential for congestion, particularly during peak hours. While some find that the courses are designed more like a traveling attraction - using 12'x12' platforms - others appreciate the creativity and interactive elements.
Several reviewers highlighted the detail within the establishment and the opportunity for fun photos, making it a great spot for groups and celebrations. The karaoke rooms also add an extra dimension to the entertainment options, offering private spaces for singing. Reviewers, one in particular, praised the selection of songs and overall cleanliness/functionality of the rooms.
Maintenance & Value: Room for Improvement?
A recurring theme in the less enthusiastic reviews revolves around upkeep and cleanliness. Some visitors found the venue "filthy" during daytime visits, with surfaces needing a thorough cleaning. There’s also concern about the condition of the course elements themselves, with reports of torn carpeting and malfunctioning interactive features. One reviewer specifically questioned if a windmill was supposed to spin, highlighting a potential lack of attention to detail.
While acknowledging that the level of disrepair might be expected for a roadside attraction, many believe Holey Moley aims for a higher standard, and the current condition doesn't quite meet those aspirations. This raises concerns about the long-term maintenance of the facility.
In terms of value, the $14 per person price tag for around 20 minutes of mini golf prompts some to question whether it's the best option, especially when compared to alternatives like Monster Mini Golf, which is perceived as better maintained and less crowded for a similar cost. Holey Moley's appeal, therefore, might be strongest for tourists seeking a unique and lively entertainment experience, or those prioritizing the bar/karaoke aspect alongside the mini golf.