Pros 
Cons A Hole Lot of Fun: First Impressions of Swing and Putt
Swing and Putt – Slush by the Park in San Rafael, CA, currently boasts a solid 4.0 rating, and for good reason. This multifaceted entertainment venue offers more than just miniature golf; it's a hub for various sports and family fun. Visitors consistently praise the well-maintained 18-hole putt-putt course, noting its accessibility for both kids and adults. One reviewer, visiting from Texas, highlighted the beautiful landscaping and overall pleasant atmosphere, making it a memorable stop.
The facility is clearly geared towards families, proudly advertising itself as "good for kids," and backing that up with convenient wheelchair accessibility throughout – including entrance, parking, and restrooms. Beyond the mini golf, Swing and Putt provides batting cages (though see the "Caveats & Considerations" section below) and a driving range, catering to a broader range of interests. A small snack bar and a full-service restaurant, The Club, ensures players won't go hungry during their visit. Payment options are modern and convenient, accepting both credit and debit cards.
Here's a quick breakdown of what Swing and Putt offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mini Golf | 18-hole course, family-friendly |
| Batting Cages | Baseball and softball sections |
| Driving Range | Available on-site |
| Food & Drink | Snack bar & Full Restaurant (The Club) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible (entrance, parking, restroom) |
| Payments | Credit & Debit Cards Accepted |
The Good Times Roll: Positive Experiences
Many patrons share incredibly positive experiences at Swing and Putt. The consistent theme seems to be friendly service and a “good vibe.” One individual recounts a heart-warming experience where staff went above and beyond to accommodate a payment issue, ensuring both they and their children enjoyed their time. The overall atmosphere is described as “pleasant,” making it an ideal spot to spend an afternoon.
The course itself is frequently mentioned for being "in good condition" and offering "challenging holes" that cater to a variety of skill levels. For those looking for alternatives to putting, the driving range provides a space to practice their swing, and a reviewer indicates it’s practical for Little League hitting practice with inexpensive access to decent hitting time. The convenience of having multiple activities in one location is a significant draw for many families and sports enthusiasts.
Here’s what people are saying:
"Super fun way to hang with my kids…can get busy and sometimes will have a wait but not often."
"A pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Friendly service. Good vibe."
Caveats & Considerations: Areas for Improvement
While Swing and Putt generally receives positive feedback, several reviews point to areas ripe for improvement. A particularly frustrating experience involved a pre-booked mini golf appointment being cancelled due to understaffing at the front desk and a resulting wait in a long line. The customer, visiting for Father’s Day, was turned away despite arriving 5 minutes before their scheduled time. This highlights a potential issue with appointment management and efficient customer service during peak hours.
On the sports side, the batting cages have received criticism. Specifically, reviewers report a lack of speed variety, with the maximum speed currently capped at 39 mph. This may disappoint more experienced or high-level players looking for a realistic training experience. The impact of understaffing extends beyond appointment scheduling; it seemingly contributes to a slower overall experience for customers waiting for slushies or checking in.
- Appointment System: Potential for delays and cancellations due to understaffing.
- Batting Cages: Limited speed options (max 39 mph).
- Service Speed: Potential for slow service during busy times.
Planning Your Visit: Key Information
Swing and Putt – Slush by the Park is located at 350 Smith Ranch Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903, and is easily accessible. They maintain consistent operating hours throughout the week: 11 AM to 8 PM, Monday through Sunday. Those interested can reach them by phone at (415) 491-5995.
Considering the potential for wait times, especially when booking appointments, it is advisable to arrive well before your scheduled time, or consider visiting during off-peak hours. The facility’s commitment to accessibility makes it welcoming to patrons with mobility challenges. Furthermore, knowing that both quick snacks and full meals are available allows for better planning of your visit, potentially making it a longer and more enjoyable experience. Keep in mind the batting cage speed limitations if your group includes serious baseball or softball players.