Putt Around At These Outdoor Mini Golf Courses in Chicagoland

From classic greens to wild themes, there's some great outdoor mini golf courses to choose from.

When it’s a beautiful sunny day in Chicagoland, summer and mini golf simply go together. Luckily in the Chicago area, we have a variety of outdoor mini golf courses to choose from, including many with fun themes like Halloween monsters or city attractions

Some of us might have fond memories of mini golf courses when we were younger, or maybe it’s a new family tradition with your own children. I remember when I was a kid, my dad surprised us one summer with a visit to Par-King Skill Golf in Lincolnshire and my eyes lit up when we pulled to a big pink castle. 

What are you waiting for? Grab your clubs and hit as many of these outdoor mini golf courses as you can this summer. Note: Check before visiting if they’re open for the season!

This article was recently updated on April 10, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her research and fact-checking skills on the mini golf courses in the area. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.

Mini golf near me: Best outdoor mini golf courses in Chicagoland

City Mini Golf

During your next downtown trip, play some mini golf surrounded by our lovely skyline. This course is conveniently located in Maggie Daley Park and some obstacles feature a sparkle of Chicago that will make any local feel proud of their city.

Diversey Miniature Golf

For those looking for a good old-fashioned round of mini golf, this 18-hole course near the Lakefront Trail is your place to be. It’s conveniently located near the lake, so you can easily add some mini golfing to your perfect summer day.

The Douglass 18

Photo Credit: Douglass 18 Partners/Lincoln Park Zoo

In North Lawndale, Douglass Park offers a bird-themed mini golf course designed by students. The course is actually inspired by the 200 bird species that reside in Douglass Park.

Congo River Miniature Golf

Embark on another adventure through this river-themed mini golf course. To make it more exciting, this location includes a scavenger hunt where you search for ancient artifacts along the way.

Novelty Golf & Games

You’ll definitely embrace the retro atmosphere at Novelty Golf and Games, which has been around for more than 70 years. For some obstacles, golfers can step on the yellow pedals to give you the control on moving and twisting things around on the course. Note: Cash is only accepted for admission.

Par-King Skill Golf

From the Sears, uh, Willis Tower and Mount Rushmore to Humpty Dumpty, expect to see it all at this whimsical 18-hole course. Putt through 19 moving obstacles and 7 water holes where each gives golfers an entertaining experience. Note: Children must be at least 48 inches in height to play and cash is only accepted for admission. 

Haunted Trails

It might be the middle of summer, but you can still enjoy some spooky fun at Haunted Trails. Any Halloween fan will love to golf alongside skulls, ghouls and ghosts. Don’t worry parents, these monsters (hopefully) won’t scare your little ones — it’s all in good fun!

Lost Mountain Adventure Golf

Putt your way through Lost Mountain, an adventure mini golf course with cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and other thrilling obstacles that go beyond corny putt putt decor. 

Putter’s Peak Miniature Golf

Go on an adventure through this 18-hole course. While putting with the family, you’ll spot a colorful waterfall, a mountain and Tiki statues. Stop by the Clubhouse for a bite to eat after playing.

River View Mini Golf Course

Play some mini golf while catching some great views of the Fox River. The course takes in the surrounding nature with its own babbling brook, log tunnel, waterfall and more. Family Night is on Fridays from 6-9 p.m. Check out these specialty Putt & Save deals that include prizes, free frozen treats and more. 

Wilderness Falls

Have you ever played golf on top of a 40-foot mountain with a waterfall? Now’s your chance at Wilderness Falls with two courses to choose from. If you’re up to playing the second course, you only have to pay an additional $2 each. Keep your eye out for Maddox Moose, the course’s adorable mascot who always is ready for hugs and high fives.


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Katina Beniaris
Katina Beniaris
As audience development manager, Katina Beniaris digs into data to help the Chicago Parent team learn about our audiences and tailor better content for them. She has more than five years of experience in content creation.
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