Pros 
Cons Swing-A-Round: Fun for the Whole Family (Mostly!)
Swing-A-Round in St. Charles, MO, consistently garners positive attention with a solid 4.4-star rating, and it's easy to see why. Many visitors rave about the course’s aesthetic appeal. One reviewer highlights that it’s "very scenic and pretty, with 18 holes and lots of colorful balls to choose from." The well-maintained condition is continuously praised. Beyond miniature golf, Swing-A-Round aims to be a full-fledged entertainment spot for families.
The facilities are geared toward creating a family-friendly atmosphere:
- Accessibility: The course demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, featuring wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms.
- Good for Kids: With the inclusion of a playground, it's clear Swing-A-Round recognizes the importance of catering to younger players.
- Varied Entertainment: Batting cages and a small arcade add additional layers of fun, allowing for more than just a single activity visit.
- Modern Payment Options: Accepts credit, debit and NFC mobile payments.
The standard course price is around $8 per round, making it an affordable outing for most. Overall, initial impressions point towards a place built for a relaxed, enjoyable time. However, it isn't without its critics.
The Challenge Factor & Course Features
While generally enjoyed, a point of contention revolves around the difficulty of the course. Some visitors like it wasn’t “super challenging,”, leading to a more relaxed experience, while others felt it was too difficult, particularly for children.
“I thought it was a little bit too difficult though. The kids had fun, it just seemed difficult at some of the holes to make a hole-in-one or even two.”
It seems the level of challenge is subjective and may depend on the skill level of the players. Several reviewers liked that the course provided ample shade, a welcome feature particularly during the hot summer months in Missouri.
There are elements that players suggest could elevate the experience:
- More benches strategically placed along the course would allow a respite for those waiting their turn.
- Stands at each hole for easier scorekeeping were frequently requested.
- An increase in the number of trash cans would improve the cleanliness and overall experience.
The Batting Cages: A Separate But Connected Experience
Swing-A-Round isn’t solely a putt-putt destination. The batting cages are another significant draw. According to one visitor, a large package of tokens cost around $22, providing roughly 14 pitches per token. The cages accommodate both baseball and softball, with varying speeds available.
This makes it a good spot for practicing swings or simply having some batting fun. For example:
| Cage Type | Pitch Speed | Estimated Pitch Count Per Token |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball - Slow | 40-50 mph | 12-14 |
| Baseball - Fast | 60-70 mph | 10-12 |
| Softball - Slow | 30-40 mph | 13-15 |
The cages appear to be a popular choice, particularly for those looking for a more active experience beyond mini golf.
Customer Service Concerns & "The Hole 18" Controversy
Despite the overwhelmingly positive remarks about the facilities and general ambiance, several reviews highlight issues with customer service. The most blatant complaint centers around Hole 18’s promised prize - a free game for a hole-in-one - and a malfunctioning buzzer. One patron recounts a frustrating experience where their partner achieved the feat, but did not receive the reward due to the buzzer's failure.
However, an even more concerning issue involved a negative interaction with the owner. A group of five adults and two children were reportedly told to “hurry it up” in a dismissive and unprofessional manner, with the owner pointing and shaking her head at them.
“My family had a terrible experience here…the owner actually pointed at us and shook her head while talking to her employees about us, which was very rude and unprofessional.”
Fortunately, the situation was partially salvaged by a manager who offered an apology and complimentary drinks. While this individual's response was appreciated, it couldn’t fully erase the negative impact of the initial encounter. Despite the manager’s efforts, this incident has led some customers to vow to seek entertainment elsewhere, even if it means driving further.