Putts & Pins: A Miniature Golf Adventure Full of Fun and Flair

A Hole-in-One for Entertainment: The Putts & Pins Experience

Putts & Pins in West Des Moines, Iowa, aims to be more than just a miniature golf course – it's a full entertainment venue blending golf, bowling, and a retro-themed restaurant. Boasting a 4.0 rating, the facility clearly resonates with many. Recent reviews paint a picture of a spot that’s highly family-friendly, LGBTQ+ inclusive, and accommodating, offering wheelchair accessibility throughout. Beyond the games, Putts & Pins provides convenient amenities like free parking, Wi-Fi, and – surprisingly – a full menu. A notable feature for veterans is its identification as a veteran-owned business.

However, the experience isn’t universally flawless. While many praise the innovative, high-tech approach to mini golf, several patrons have encountered frustrating technical glitches with the scoring system. The scoring isn’t based on traditional strokes, but instead on a point system akin to ski ball which deviates from the classic game and might not appeal to purists. Difficulty with hole registration, balls getting stuck, and tight turn timing have been reported. Participants are advised to pay close attention to the screen and be prepared to manually adjust or re-scan their ball. Reservations, conveniently available online, are recommended, especially given the potential for crowds and inclement weather (as one group discovered during an ice storm!).

Food, Drinks & Retro Vibes: Fueling the Fun

The dining experience at Putts & Pins is a standout aspect, heavily themed around 80s and 90s pop culture. The menu creatively utilizes references from beloved TV shows, adding a playful touch to classic bar fare. Appetizers are particularly popular, with options like fried pickles, “Tater Kegs” (potato and cheese-filled delights), and fried macaroni receiving rave reviews, served with generous portions of ranch dressing. Burgers earn high marks, particularly “Ya Filthy Animal” – a substantial double patty with egg, bacon, and a unique coffee rub. Sides, like slightly curly seasoned fries and sweet potato fries with cinnamon-sugar and yum yum sauce, are also frequently mentioned.

Drinks also get a nod, especially the creatively named spiked Capri Suns. The bar staff, however, have received mixed reviews, with some describing unintelligible service and a lack of cocktail knowledge. While the food is generally considered good, it is acknowledged as being somewhat pricey for families. Despite the cost, the generous portion sizes lead many to believe it's worth the splurge.

Staff Interactions: A Mixed Bag

Customer service at Putts & Pins appears inconsistent. On the positive side, numerous reviewers commend the staff’s helpfulness and efficiency, especially when setting up the mini golf and accommodating late arrivals. Particular shout-outs go to servers like Erin, described as attentive and friendly. These interactions created a welcoming atmosphere and contributed positively to the overall experience. Some customers appreciated the staff’s assistance during the initial learning curve with the high-tech mini golf system.

However, a significant number of reviewers express dissatisfaction with the front-of-house staff. Complaints center around unhelpfulness, a perceived uninterested attitude, and a lack of thorough explanation for the course's unique scanning system. There are other complaints of rudeness, especially as it concerns pricing and the functioning of the holes.

The Good, the Bad & the Bowling

Beyond miniature golf, Putts & Pins offers duckpin bowling, which has proven popular with younger children due to the smaller ball size. The combination of golf and bowling provides diverse entertainment options, making it suitable for various ages and group sizes. Many find it an excellent venue for team building, dates, or family outings.

Despite the overall positive sentiment, persistent issues with the mini golf technology are a recurring theme. Patrons have cautioned that not all holes consistently function, potentially detracting from the enjoyment. The price point for the combined experience – particularly for a full 18-hole round and bowling – is often cited as being high, leading some to feel the value doesn't quite match the cost when technical difficulties arise.