Pros 
Cons A Nostalgic Trip with Room for Improvement
Parkland Putters in Tacoma, Washington, holds a special place in the hearts of many locals, evidenced by repeat visits motivated by childhood nostalgia. Operating at 10636 Sales Rd S, this miniature golf course currently maintains a solid 4.3-star rating, and offers a range of amenities that cater to families and individuals alike. They proudly identify as a women-owned business and extend discounts to active military personnel. Accessibility is a clear priority, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. They also offer gender-neutral restrooms, Wi-Fi, and are considered 'good for kids'—making it a versatile entertainment option. However, the common thread across many reviews points to a need for significant upkeep.
While the course’s unique layout and challenging holes are frequently praised, several visitors noted deferred maintenance impacting the experience. Specific issues consistently surface:
- Grounds Condition: Many reviewers express disappointment with the state of the grounds, citing abundant pine needles, leaves, and debris. Broken water features further detract from the aesthetic appeal.
- Course Wear & Tear: Significant wear and tear on the putting surfaces is a recurring complaint. Holes show patching, creating uneven surfaces that interfere with putting.
- Hole Obstructions: A specific incident on the Center course involved debris – including golf balls – clogging a multi-level hole's tunnel, indicating a lack of consistent clearing.
- Safety Concerns: One reviewer experienced a safety hazard on the Easy course when a soft, damaged section of the wooden base under the turf caused them to roll an ankle.
- Bathroom Issues: The shared restrooms are described as poorly maintained, lacking essential supplies like hand towels (though soap and toilet paper were available).
Despite these issues, the course is priced fairly, and the staff receives consistent praise for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Fun for All Ages, But Expect a Challenge
Parkland Putters isn't simply "easy-going" putt putt. Visitors consistently report a surprisingly high level of challenge, even on the "Easy" course. One reviewer meticulously detailed their experience:
“Maybe we're just not good at mini golf, but the course was quite challenging for us. Super fun, but a bit discouraging in places.”
The course features four distinct 18-hole courses, categorized as Easy, Medium, Medium-Hard, and Difficult. The paths are well-marked, and each hole is clearly numbered. The layout genuinely caters to different skill levels, offering a challenge for seasoned players. Here's a quick breakdown of general perceptions:
| Course Difficulty | Description | Typical Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Easy | Primarily straight and simple; some challenging slopes. | Good for beginners, but slopes can still be tricky. |
| Medium | More turns and "traps" than the Easy course. | Requires more precision and strategic play. |
| Medium-Hard | A step up in complexity and challenge. | A good option for those comfortable with the Medium course. |
| Difficult | Hills, twists, water hazards, and complex obstacles. | Designed for experienced players and those seeking a real challenge. |
Beyond the challenge, the course is remarkably family-friendly, as evidenced by a tale of a 4-year-old receiving a blue ribbon, which “made her weekend.” The atmosphere is described as “relaxed” and “patient,” with ample space between groups to prevent overcrowding. A potential benefit is its suitability for “Covid fun,” thanks to the natural social distancing offered by the outdoor setting.
A History of Sentiment & Changing Rewards
The longevity of Parkland Putters is a significant aspect of its appeal. Several reviews mention decades of fond memories, indicating a strong connection to the local community. However, this long history also highlights a perceived lack of modernization.
One long-time patron observed:
“I’ve come here on and off for probably 4 decades now…nothing has changed.”
While the core fun remains intact, recent changes to the reward system have disappointed some visitors. Specifically, the discontinuation of trophies or free games for achieving a hole-in-one, and the cessation of awarding ribbons, have diminished the sense of accomplishment for younger players.
This shift reveals a potential tension between maintaining a nostalgic experience and adapting to modern expectations. The flat fee of $8 per person (under a certain age is free) is widely considered a good value, but the lack of updated incentives might deter repeat visits, particularly for families eager to celebrate achievements. The nearby coffee shop provides a convenient adjunct to a day’s playtime, but the freeway proximity, while not bothering everyone, is a noted visual downside.
Mixed Feelings & Hope for the Future
The overall sentiment towards Parkland Putters is largely positive, but tempered by a clear need for investment in maintenance and upgrades. While the energetic and polite staff are a consistent highlight, and the course promises a fun, challenging experience, the quality of the facilities is holding it back from its full potential.
Many reviewers express a willingness to return, contingent on seeing improvements. The desire to see the business thrive is clearly present, driven by both nostalgia and a belief in the inherent fun of the course. A detailed review by one visitor encapsulates this feeling:
“We’ll definitely go back...But I do hope they can get some of those holes repaired soon so I can update to 5 stars.”
The suggestion to reinvest in the business—to “sink a little money back into the business and have some new things”—is a common refrain amongst patrons. Ultimately, Parkland Putters’ success hinges on addressing the existing maintenance issues while preserving the charm and unique layout that has attracted generations of golfers.