Summer is the right time to get out there and golf. But there’s a few caveats. Not all of us have extra clubs lying around, or, you know, the skills to actually play. Sometimes it’s too hot for outdoor golf, or the rain washes our plans away. These simulator bars and mini golf spots have all the fun of golf in sweet, approachable packages.
⛳ Aqua Golf Denver (Skyland)
The city’s parks and recreation department runs and maintains Aqua Golf Denver, featuring two 18-hole mini-golf courses with flowing water hazards and tricky sand traps that mimic a real golf course. This family-friendly spot also has a large water driving range. Kids between ages 3-12 cost just $8 to play, while adults are $12 on weekdays and $16 on weekends.
Know before you go: They’re open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. in the summer months.
🏌️ The Local Drive (Five Points)
If you like to golf alongside mixologist-made cocktails and an elevated space, you can’t miss The Local Drive, featuring state-of-the-art golf simulators. Here, there are bar games, snacks, and plenty of places for non-golfers in the group to lounge. And if you want to develop real golf skills, a golf lesson at The Local Drive provides dedicated one-on-one lessons from a pro (starting at $100 for one hour) to help you dominate the real course.
Know before you go: There’s two locations — one in RiNo and one in the Stanley Marketplace.
🏁 Putter’s Pride (Lakewood)
Putter’s Pride might be the most adventurous mini golf course on our list. Kids and adults of all ages love this 54-hole journey, where players encounter everything from scary dragons and rippling ponds to Wild West saloons. Private parties are popular here, too, and guests who don’t want to play don’t have to pay, which means grandma can come along for the fun.
Know before you go: All you can play golf costs $12 for all ages.
🍸 RiNo Country Club (Elyria Swansea)
Don’t be fooled by the name — there’s nothing pretentious about this dive bar inspired by the simplicity and good times of the 1970’s. RiNo Country Club has a custom, nine-hole outdoor putt putt course for adults aged 21 and over, which also means you can bring your (well-priced) beer or cocktails along for the game. After you play, their smashburgers and waffle fries are always a good idea. Just watch out for the alligator on the course!
Know before you go: Become a lifetime member here for just $10 — a perk that includes mini golf for the rest of your days.
