Pros 
Cons A Walk Down Memory Lane… With Some Potholes
Putt-Putt Golf and Games in Longview, TX, currently holding a 4.0 rating, seems to be a location wrapped in nostalgia. Many reviewers fondly remember visiting this establishment as children, recalling a time when it was a vibrant and well-maintained entertainment hub. One customer stated they’d been visiting for years, lamenting the decline they’ve witnessed. Several patrons explicitly compare it to fond memories from 30 years ago, suggesting a longstanding presence in the community. However, the current experience appears frequently marred by disrepair. It’s clear Putt-Putt Golf and Games evokes strong sentimental feelings for long-time visitors, but these are increasingly overshadowed by its deteriorating condition.
Here's a quick glimpse of what folks are saying about the price:
| Feature | Price |
|---|---|
| 18 Holes | $8 |
| 36 Holes | $12 |
While some still find this a “good deal,” the value is heavily debated in the context of the course's state.
The State of the Greens (and Everything Else)
The most consistent complaint leveled against Putt-Putt Golf and Games centers around its physical condition. Reviewers consistently use phrases like “falling apart,” “run down,” and “pitiful” to describe the facilities. Specific issues cited include:
- Course Deterioration: Overgrown bushes obstruct gameplay, turf is ripped and damaged (with one hole entirely covered in sand), and features like waterfalls are crumbling. The greens themselves are described as "messed up," making actual golfing difficult.
- Arcade Neglect: A significant portion of the arcade games are reportedly out of order, limiting entertainment options. This is a recurring issue, with mentions of broken batting cages that have been non-functional for at least two years.
- General Disrepair: Benches are falling apart, walkways are obstructed, and there’s a general sense of deferred maintenance throughout the property. One reviewer even noted a completely collapsed fake rock cave.
- Accessibility: While the facilities do offer wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms, the overgrown landscaping and broken walkways potentially hinder practical access, contradicting the stated accessibility features.
One customer boldly stated, "I wouldn't be surprised if this place shuts down soon," which highlights the severity of the perceived decline.
A Mixed Bag of Customer Service Experiences
While the physical state of Putt-Putt Golf and Games receives overwhelmingly negative feedback, customer service opinions are more varied. Several reviewers specifically praised the employee/owner as “pleasant and nice,” even despite the issues with the facilities. One couple, new to the game, enjoyed their visit and plan to return with their children.
However, others report a lack of initial assistance, stating they “walked around and looked at the facilities” without being greeted. This inconsistency in service could be attributed to limited staffing. Regardless, the positive interactions do offer a glimmer of hope, suggesting that friendly staff are still trying to provide a positive experience despite the challenging conditions. This leads some reviewers to speculate financial struggles potentially hindering necessary maintenance.
Is the Nostalgia Worth the Visit?
Ultimately, deciding whether to visit Putt-Putt Golf and Games is a trade-off between potential nostalgia and a knowingly compromised experience. For those who remember it in its prime, a visit might be a bittersweet journey down memory lane. The $8-$12 price point could be seen as affordable entertainment, particularly for families who aren’t overly concerned with pristine conditions.
However, individuals seeking a well-maintained miniature golf course or a fully-functional arcade are likely to be disappointed. The numerous complaints about disrepair—from the course itself to the arcade games—suggest that a significant investment is needed to restore this establishment to its former glory.
Here's a quick breakdown of the pros & cons:
- Pros: Lower pricing, potential for nostalgia, friendly staff, wheelchair accessibility.
- Cons: Significant disrepair, broken arcade games, overgrown landscaping, potential access issues despite accessibility features.
One reviewer’s sentiment seems to summarize the situation perfectly: “It’s got to just be a tax write off for someone.”