Pros 
Cons A Wild Ride or a Safari Snooze? First Impressions of Safari Mini Golf
Safari Mini Golf, nestled within Laser Blasters at the Vancouver Mall, aims to transport players to an adventurous, glowing world. With a rating of 3.8, it receives mixed reviews, positioning it as a potentially fun outing but with some significant drawbacks. The facility certainly boasts accessibility with both wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, catering to a wider range of visitors – a definite plus. While primarily a miniature golf course, it’s part of a larger entertainment complex, offering the possibility of extending the fun with laser tag and, seemingly, axe throwing. Many guests report a pleasant experience centered around children’s birthday parties, noting the availability of a party room and the kids enjoying the various activities. However, several reviews highlight a key issue: size.
Many customers feel that the 12-hole course is simply too short, with some bemoaning completing a round in under 20 minutes. Initial enthusiasm can quickly fade when the game feels rushed. One reviewer drove an hour specifically to visit, citing a repeat trip wouldn’t be on the cards unless fueled by an interest in the other activities offered. Despite this, the course tries to make up for its lack of length with aesthetic flair.
The Glow-Up & A Nod to the Past
Despite some structural criticisms, Safari Mini Golf receives praise for its imaginative design elements. The course utilizes black light painting extensively, creating a distinctive and visually appealing atmosphere. This feature is consistently mentioned as a highlight, contributing to "good memories" and a "cool look." But beyond the modernity, Safari Mini Golf has a unique connection to local mini golf history. A significant attraction for enthusiasts is the inclusion of the loop-da-loop, salvaged from the beloved, but now-closed, Hazel Dell Golf-O-Rama. This is seen as a fantastic tribute and a nod to the past, offering a sense of nostalgia for long-time players.
Here's a quick rundown of what sets Safari Mini Golf visually apart:
- Black Light Emphasis: Provides a vibrant and energetic playing environment.
- Unique Hole Designs: Some holes are described as "fun and glowing", suggesting creativity.
- Historical Artifact: The Hazel Dell Golf-O-Rama loop-da-loop is a standout feature.
Gameplay & Perks: Hole-in-One Rewards & Beyond
Safari Mini Golf incentivizes skilled players with a compelling reward system. Players who achieve a hole-in-one on the 18th hole receive a free game. One enthusiastic family boasted of earning five free games, demonstrating both skill and repeated patronage. This perk evidently adds an element of excitement and encourages return visits. The course also provides scorecards, which enhances the competitive aspect and allows players to track their progress.
However, the positive feedback regarding gameplay is overshadowed by recurring complaints about the course quality itself. Several reviewers describe it as "garbage” and poorly constructed, suggesting a lack of investment in the actual playing experience. While the ambiance is appreciated, the fundamental structure appears to be a significant detractor.
The Not-So-Fun Details: Smells & Disappointment
Beyond the concerns about course length and quality, a recurring and disturbing theme emerges: the unpleasant odor within the facility. Reviewers repeatedly mention a lingering smell, comparing it to a decade-old pet shop. This significantly detracts from the overall experience, making it difficult for visitors to enjoy their time. Multiple parties reported being unable to continue their visit due to this issue.
Here’s a summary of frequently mentioned negatives:
| Issue | Frequency of Mention | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Course Quality | High | High |
| Course Length | High | Medium |
| Unpleasant Odor | Medium | High |
| Laser Tag Quality | Low | Medium |
Despite consistently positive remarks about the staff’s friendliness, this cannot fully compensate for the inherent shortcomings. Several patrons expressed a desire to see the course completely rebuilt, even offering to return if improvements were made. Ultimately, while Safari Mini Golf demonstrates potential with its unique features and perks, it falls short due to fundamental issues with its design and upkeep.