Pros 
Cons A Surprisingly Relaxing Round on the North Shore
Black Beach Mini Golf in Silver Bay, Minnesota, consistently earns high praise – currently boasting a 4.9-star rating – and recent reviews paint a picture of a surprisingly delightful experience. While one reviewer admits to a puzzling disconnect between the course’s inherent awesomeness and their personal enjoyment, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. This indoor mini golf destination, located conveniently at 105 Prospect Ave, seems to excel at providing family fun, particularly for younger players.
Several visitors specifically mention the course being easy and enjoyable for children, with reports of impressive hole-in-ones from even the youngest golfers (a three-year-old niece’s first-hole ace was a highlight!). The layout itself is described as an 18-hole course with a variety of difficulty levels, ensuring engagement for different skill levels. And for those traveling along Highway 61, it's hard to miss – particularly if heading northwest from Duluth. Its proximity to the AmericInn hotel also provides a convenient walkable option for guests.
Here's a quick breakdown of what customers are saying:
| Feature | Reviewer Feedback |
|---|---|
| Course Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Kid-Friendly | Highly Recommended |
| Cleanliness | Super Clean |
| Staff | Friendly & Accommodating |
| Facilities | Restrooms Available, Restaurant |
Beyond the Putter: Amenities and Accessibility
Black Beach Mini Golf goes the extra mile in providing amenities beyond just a well-maintained course. Guests can enjoy refreshments with soft drinks, ice cream bars, and snacks available for purchase. A small restaurant also appears to be on-site, with mentions of frozen pizza options.
Importantly, the establishment demonstrates exceptional customer service. One patron recounts arriving after closing hours, only to have staff return to the facility to allow their group to play a round – a true example of going above and beyond. While the card machine was down during one visit (cash is recommended!), the staff was proactive about confirming their Monday morning operating hours via a prior phone call to a customer. It's this kind of personal touch that contributes to the overall positive vibe.
The course is reported to be less than a year old, meaning it’s in excellent condition with nice turf and great features including a water feature and a charming lighthouse.
Constructive Critiques & Potential Improvements
Despite the near-perfect rating, reviews aren’t entirely without suggestions. One long-time putt-putt player expressed a desire to see the three-holed tees retired, citing a general preference for more modern setups. While this is a minor point, it highlights a commitment to keeping the course up-to-date and responsive to player preferences.
It's worth noting the slight ambiguity in some reviews regarding the overall "vibe" – one person paradoxically found the course "awesome" yet didn't have much fun. This might suggest the environment is very laid-back and lacks extensive entertainment beyond the mini golf itself. However, this seems to appeal to many visitors who appreciate a simple, well-executed activity rather than a bustling, overstimulating experience.
Group Fun and Local Gem Status
Black Beach Mini Golf truly shines when accommodating groups. A recent visit from the MN ATV Rider's "Ride The Shore" event resulted in a glowing review, praising the staff’s welcoming nature and the course’s ability to handle a large crowd. The owners and staff are consistently described as “wonderful people”, fostering a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.
The facility clearly positions itself as a family-fun activity, and reviews repeatedly underscore its success in that regard. Its convenient location, combined with its well-maintained condition and exceptional customer service, have cemented its status as a local gem in Silver Bay. It’s a place where a simple round of mini golf can create lasting memories, and even inspire a three-year-old's first hole-in-one. Contact them at (218) 226-8455, and remember they're open 10 AM - 8/9 PM daily depending on the day of the week.