We’ve got a lot of golf courses around here—some 200, to be more exact—but none are quite as unique as the one that has returned to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden for the second year: Artist-Designed Mini Golf. Sure, it’s a less advanced version of the sport, but that just makes it equally as fun for novices without sacrificing the challenge seasoned golfers enjoy.
Now, I did say this course was unique. Local artists have designed the holes, so expect to encounter elements like gumball machines, human sculptures, and musical fiberglass rocks. Play the Curling Club hole, inspired by the Winter Olympics sport, 18 Holes in One, an overlay of all 18 holes at Augusta National Golf Course, try to avoid hitting eggs, chicks or running into a ball-gobbling fox inside a chicken coop at the Guess What? Chicken Putt! hole, or at the Garden Gnome Foosball hole, play a combination of foosball and golf with gnome strikers.
If you work up an appetite here, there’s a Dog House serving all-beef hot dogs and drinks. And once you’ve finished on the greens, head to the adjacent Walker Art Center—your golf ticket includes free gallery admission.
Fair warning: This event has become very popular; so don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a wait, especially in the evenings and on the weekend when the course is busiest.
Artist-Designed Mini Golf (through September 1)
Hours: Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday-Wednesday 10 a.m-8 p.m.
Tickets: 9 holes: $12 adults, $10 students, $9 Walker members and children 7-12, ages 6 and younger free; 18 holes: $18 adults, $15 students, $13.50 Walker members and children 7-12, ages 6 and younger free
