Pros 
Cons A Nostalgic Haunt Falling into Disrepair
Sportway in Waterford Township, Michigan, evokes a strong sense of nostalgia for many long-time residents. With a current rating of 3.8, the miniature golf course holds a spot in the memories of generations. Several reviewers fondly recall childhood visits and annual Father’s Day traditions. One patron lamented, “I wish I could say good things…I have always went here for Father’s Day every year since I was a child…it was a tradition for me to go with my dad and brother and now my nephew’s first and possibly last time there.” However, this rosy past sharply contrasts with the recent experiences shared by customers. The recurring theme is a noticeable decline in the course's condition and overall maintenance. The once-vibrant water features - waterfalls and rivers - are now largely dry and stagnant, described by one user as “swampy looking and smelled horrible”. This has led to a disheveled appearance, compounded by overgrowth of weeds, graffiti (some of which is inappropriate for children), and general debris like discarded water bottles littered across the holes.
Frustrations with Facility Condition & Safety Concerns
The most frequent and alarming complaints center around the physical state of the course itself. Multiple reviewers report significant damage – torn starting positions, broken and bent obstacles, and, most worryingly, unsafe conditions. A particularly disturbing incident involved a customer tripping and twisting their ankle due to wooden boards not being nailed down properly. This incident directly explains the rigorously detailed waiver guests are required to sign. The waiver’s necessity feels indicative of the facility's awareness of potential hazards, without actively addressing them. The dilapidated state isn’t limited to the miniature golf course either. Go-kart operations have also been impacted; one individual reported several karts were either out of service or incredibly slow, incapable of completing a lap without struggle. The general consensus is that Sportway is desperately in need of significant investment and upkeep.
Staff Interactions: A Mixed Bag
Customer service experiences appear inconsistent. While some visitors praise the helpfulness and enthusiasm of the staff, particularly highlighting a gentleman with longer hair who “hyped my son up to ride his own go kart for the first time”, others describe rude or unhelpful interactions. Several people mentioned encountering staff who were dismissive or provided vague, passive-aggressive responses. One review stated the employee "wouldn’t give me direct yes or no answers." This disparity in service quality adds to the overall feeling of decline and neglect. The warmer interactions often occurred with more seasoned employees, suggesting a potential training or management issue impacting newer staff members. Here's a quick breakdown:
| Staff Interaction | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Positive | Moderate | Enthusiastic, helpful (go-karts) |
| Neutral | Low | Basic assistance |
| Negative | Moderate | Rude, dismissive, unhelpful responses |
Value & The Future of Sportway
The rising prices, coupled with the deteriorating condition of the facilities, have led many to question the value proposition offered by Sportway. Several reviewers noted price increases for go-karts (now $10 for 3 laps), whilst simultaneously the number of operational attractions is decreasing (e.g., batting cages being closed). Others have commented that they will make the drive to other, better-maintained, mini-golf courses, even if it means a longer journey. The overarching sentiment is one of disappointment – a beloved local spot that has sadly lost its luster. One patron, having visited for over 35 years, states, “Yesterday will be the last time.” While some express hope that the owners will invest in renovations, the sheer extent of the problems suggests a significant undertaking. The future of Sportway appears uncertain, hanging in the balance between cherished memories and a pressing need for revitalization.