Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Experiences at Cen-Tex Mini Golf
Cen-Tex Mini Golf in Georgetown, Texas, appears to be a course with a lot of potential, boasting a 4.5-star rating and a beautiful, creatively designed layout. Many visitors rave about the ambiance, especially when playing under the lights at dusk. Several reviewers specifically mention the well-maintained artificial turf, varied obstacles (greens, fairways, sand pits, and water features), and the overall scenery as highlights. The course clearly puts effort into aesthetics, and the inclusion of glow-in-the-dark balls for nighttime play adds a unique and enjoyable twist. Beyond the golf itself, the homemade popcorn receives consistent praise, adding a small but appreciated touch to the experience. It’s also a welcoming space, identifiable as both veteran-owned and women-owned, and offers active military discounts. Accessibility is a plus, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking. Payment options are modern – credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments are accepted. And, importantly, it is considered to be good for families.
However, a significant number of reviews point towards inconsistent customer service. While some patrons describe the owners as “incredibly kind and friendly,” others recount unsettling interactions.
Here’s a breakdown of reported issues:
- Overly Strict Enforcement of Rules: Multiple reviewers felt policed regarding where they could stand or walk while retrieving balls, even when simply attempting to recover a stray shot. This created a sense of anxiety and being unwelcome.
- Rude Interactions with Children: Several instances of the owner being described as “unbelievably rude” to children are deeply concerning. One review details a verbal reprimand for a child simply sitting near a tree, raising serious questions about the atmosphere’s family-friendliness despite being advertised as such.
- Aggressive Encouragement to Leave: Patrons attempting to complete their round before closing time (10 PM) were repeatedly rushed by the owner, who allegedly hovered, crossed his arms, and made passive-aggressive comments about the time it would take to finish. This created a stressful and unwelcoming environment.
- Unprofessional Remarks: Unsolicited comments regarding the group's pace of play ("It doesn’t matter if we finish or not by 10pm - we are out of here") were considered both unprofessional and unnecessary.
These experiences severely detract from the positive aspects of the course's design and amenities.
What Does it Cost to Play? And What Can You Expect?
Cen-Tex Mini Golf operates on a seasonal schedule, typically open Fridays (5-10 PM) and Saturdays (10 AM-3 PM, 7-10 PM) and Sundays (10 AM-3 PM). It’s closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. This limited availability can be a factor for some. Pricing is reported as $11 per person for 18 holes, bringing a family of four to approximately $44 and a larger group of five to around $55 (as evidenced by the original review mentioning a $65 cost for a group of four - possibly including snacks).
Here’s a quick look at the facilities featured by Cen-Tex Mini Golf:
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Onsite Services | Yes |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Active Military Disc. | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
| Restaurant | No |
| Free Parking | Yes |
| Good for Kids | Yes |
While the facility doesn't have a full restaurant, the availability of popcorn is a nice touch. Importantly, free on-site parking alleviates another potential stress point.
Examining the Positive Buzz
Despite the concerns regarding customer service, many visitors genuinely enjoyed their time at Cen-Tex Mini Golf. The consistent praise for the course’s aesthetics is a significant draw. It represents a thoughtfully designed space, offering a visually appealing experience. The night-time putting with illuminated balls is repeatedly cited as a particularly fun and memorable aspect. The welcoming atmosphere created by the friendly owners (in instances where it was experienced) also contributed positively to the overall experience.
One reviewer described it as "a lovely Georgetown gem”, and another said it was "by far one of the best mini golf courses in Texas!” These strong endorsements suggest that when everything clicks – a good time of day, a respectful interaction with staff – Cen-Tex Mini Golf can provide a genuinely enjoyable outing. Reviewers consistently mention it being perfect for a date night, emphasising a “peaceful” and even "romantic" atmosphere.
Understanding the Concerns & Making a Decision
Prospective visitors should approach Cen-Tex Mini Golf with an awareness of the conflicting reviews. While the course itself is well-regarded, the potential for negative interactions with staff (particularly regarding rule enforcement and time constraints) is a recurring theme. If you are visiting with young children, be prepared for the possibility of being corrected about where you stand on the course and might want to prepare them on appropriate behavior. It may also be wise to arrive well before the 10 PM closing time, to avoid feeling rushed and pressured to leave.
Ultimately, the decision to visit Cen-Tex Mini Golf depends on your tolerance for potentially strict rules and your willingness to risk a less-than-friendly encounter. If you prioritize a relaxed, carefree atmosphere, and are sensitive to potentially harsh interactions, you might consider exploring other options. However, if you're seeking a visually appealing course and are prepared to navigate potential challenges, Cen-Tex Mini Golf could still offer a fun, albeit unpredictable, experience.