Fun Putt-Putt Games

Putt-putt, or miniature golf, is a variant of golf in which players complete the course by only using a putter, as opposed to regular golf, which requires the use of multiple clubs. Miniature golf courses can vary significantly. Some miniature golf courses seek to replicate regular golf greens, while others contain elaborate obstacles such as revolving windmills and motorized castles. The scoring system in miniature golf is identical to that of regular golf, in which players count the total amount of shots taken. However, there are a number of alternate methods to playing miniature golf and keeping score.

  1. Stableford Scoring System

    • The Stableford scoring system awards between 0 and 5 points for every hole based on a player's score relative to par. A player receives 0 points for taking two or more strokes above par, 1 point for one stroke over par, 2 points for shooting par, 3 points for one stroke below par, 4 points for two strokes below par and 5 points for three strokes below par. Unlike using the regular points system, in which players attempt to achieve the lowest score possible, the highest score under the Stableford system wins. Games played using the Stableford system are typically closer, as players are not penalized heavily for a bad score on one hol, and most putt-putt holes are 2- or 3-par.

    Opponent Choice

    • When playing miniature golf, a player will typically play their own ball until they putt it into the hole. Under the opponent-choice alternative, players switch balls after every shot. This alternative is best suited for 2-player games. Using the opponent-choice alternative creates a great deal of strategy for players, as failing to sink a putt generally leaves an easy shot for an opponent.

    Aces Only

    • On miniature golf holes, players typically hit their first putt from a tee area and take subsequent putts from the place where their ball comes to a stop. Under the aces-only alternative, all shots must be taken from the tee area. If a player fails to sink a putt, he must retrieve his ball and place it back in the tee area before taking the next shot. The aces-only alternative is a more difficult way of playing miniature golf. Because most miniature golf courses have a stroke limit, players should only be given five chances to sink a putt from the tee area before moving on to the next hole.

    Speed Golf

    • Speed golf is an exciting alternative in which players attempt to complete the course in the shortest amount of time, as opposed to the least amount of strokes. Players are not allowed to hit their next shot until their ball has come to rest. Playing speed golf on a miniature golf course is best suited to courses that are not crowded.