Miniature golf is an activity that’s increased in popularity over the past several years. But did you know that people have actually been enjoying mini golf for decades? Depending who you ask, some historians believe the history of the sport can even be traced back centuries.
People love mini golf for a variety of reasons. It’s a family-friendly outing, great idea for a first date, and some businesses even use miniature golf as a team building activity. In fact, it’s likely you’ve played at least a few games in the past.
But to get a true appreciation for the fun and excitement surrounding mini golf, it’s best to gain insight into the sport’s background. Here’s what you should know about the history of mini golf:
Humble Beginnings
As mentioned, the true origins of what we today know as miniature golf have been hotly debated by historians for years.
Experts say evidence of mini golf can actually be traced back to China between the years of 937 and 975 A.D. Meanwhile, Dutch historians swear the sport originated in Denmark around 1297. There’s also a claim by French professors that miniature golf evolved out of an activity called pallemail, which was popular in the country around 1450. Similar claims have been made by scholars in Scotland, Germany, Mexico, the United States, and other countries across the world.
Whatever the true origin of mini golf, it’s clear that this is an activity that’s captured the hearts and minds of countless people throughout the years. That’s what makes it such a unique and potentially-lucrative endeavor. The first step is to team with a reliable miniature golf construction company who can help you build a course that truly stands out.
Increasing Popularity
World origins aside, the history of miniature golf in the United States is a bit easier to trace. For example, in the late 1920s, Garnet Carter opened a smaller version of his golf course just outside Chattanooga, Tennessee. Interest in the sport soon skyrocketed, not only locally but across the nation. In fact, by 1930, the U.S. Commerce Department estimated there were 25,000 mini golf courses across the United States. While that number has admittedly shrunk through the years, miniature golf remains a great way to spend quality time with friends and loved ones.
It’s also a novel business idea that can easily turn into a growing and thriving operation in no time. The first step is to partner with trusted and reputable putt putt golf course builders who can help you design a course that’s both challenging and memorable.
Good Clean Fun
As mentioned, one of the main reasons that miniature golf courses remain popular is versatility of the activity. For example, this outing makes for a perfect date night, casual vacation/entertainment option, and even a bonding experience with co-workers. Mini golf is appropriate for all ages, is affordable to all budgets, and practically guarantees fun and excitement.
From a business standpoint, this venture is cost-effective and offers the potential for long-term growth. That’s because equipment purchase and maintenance is reasonable. Most mini golf operations are able to run smoothly with few staff members. In addition, when you choose an ideal location to build your course, you can benefit from year-round patronage.
Start the process by reaching out to mini-golf course builders with a proven track record of success. This way, you can ensure your miniature golf design is unique, eye-catching, challenging, and fun.
Current and Future Innovation
While, as discussed, the number of miniature golf courses around the country has declined, that’s not to say that popularity of the sport has. In fact, these days more people than ever are seeking affordable and enjoyable entertainment options that don’t require a huge time commitment.
In addition, when you can offer something unique to guests, you can keep them coming back again and again. For instance, some of the most unique mini golf courses feature interesting art and décor, fun challenges (such as sand traps and water tests), themed played, novelty attractions, and more.
Plus, getting started is simple as teaming with a company expert at creative and interesting crazy golf design. For more than 25 years, we’ve helped business leaders like you with the concept, design, and implementation of outstanding miniature golf courses. Browse our website to witness the amazing atmospheres we’re able to create. Then, contact us today get started on a high-quality and stand-out mini golf course of your own.