how to open a mini golf course

by Mr. Boris Ratke Sr. 10 min read

Start a miniature golf course by following these 9 steps:

  1. Plan your business. A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns.
  2. Form a legal entity. The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), and corporation.
  3. Register for taxes. You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.
  4. Open a business bank account & credit card. Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection. ...
  5. Set up business accounting. Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business.
  6. Obtain necessary permits and licenses. Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.
  7. Get business insurance. Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully.
  8. Define your brand. Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public.
  9. Create your business website. After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business.

Full Answer

How much does it cost to open a mini golf course?

Jan 27, 2021 · Start a miniature golf course by following these 10 steps: Plan your Miniature Golf Course; Form your Miniature Golf Course into a Legal Entity; Register your Miniature Golf Course for Taxes; Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card; Set up Accounting for your Miniature Golf Course; Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Miniature Golf Course

How do I start a miniature golf business?

Attend trade shows and join professional associations in order to market your mini golf course. Ensure that your marketing executives are able to meet with groups in a bid to market your mini golf course. Put up billboards in strategic locations …

What qualifications do you need to run a mini golf course?

May 29, 2018 · With two 18-hole mini golf courses, it is the key to boost returning business and profitability for your facility. Not only do two golf courses produce more challenges and choices for golf lovers, they provide the space to welcome bigger crowds on …

Where can I find listings of mini golf courses?

Startup Costs for Mini-Golf Course. On average, startup costs for developing a mini-golf course run about $150,000-$250,000. For larger courses, startup costs may run up to $500,000. The biggest variable in start-up costs is the price of the land, …

Is mini golf a good investment?

In business terms, mini golf courses are cheap to run, with very few staff required and low equipment costs. Mini golf courses are profitable because they: attract all age groups. are cheap to run – low staffing needs of 1 or 2 people.Sep 27, 2018

How profitable is miniature golf?

A Very Profitable Business A figure exceeding 130 million people of all age groups are playing miniature golf every year, with an excess of $1 billion in industry revenues annually.

How much does it cost to build a mini golf course in your backyard?

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Miniature Golf Course? The average cost of developing an 18-hole course is $150,000 to $250,000. Hix points out that the most important variable is land price, which varies greatly from state to state. The land needed for a course can be found in just three-quarters of an acre.Dec 4, 2021

How do you build a mini golf course?

0:034:28How to Build a Miniature Golf Course | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSquare we're going to clamp it in this miter. Box right here and you're going to run the saw rightMoreSquare we're going to clamp it in this miter. Box right here and you're going to run the saw right into the slot. Let me line up the line with the slot.

How do you finance a golf course?

The Best Financing Options to Launch Your Golf Course or Resort...Conventional financing.Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.Life insurance companies.CMBS loans.Private equity financing.Nov 19, 2019

Why do people build miniature golf courses?

With two 18-hole mini golf courses, it is the key to boost returning business and profitability for your facility. Not only do two golf courses produce more challenges and choices for golf lovers, they provide the space to welcome bigger crowds on weekends and summer evenings.

How do I mini golf in my backyard?

1:483:09Turn Your Backyard Into A Mini Golf Course - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt over here and I've been surprised how many holes we can fit over there and the shape and theMoreIt over here and I've been surprised how many holes we can fit over there and the shape and the beauty. And it's just the coloring it brings into the backyard it's been so. Fun.

How do you build a golf course in your backyard?

3:4610:03I built a backyard golf course for under $100! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd put it all together have some foam balls you know hitting mat because the yards a little muddyMoreAnd put it all together have some foam balls you know hitting mat because the yards a little muddy right now but there is some grass some good spots.

What is the difference between crazy golf and mini golf?

In crazy golf, these are found on the playing surface, and players have to putt their ball through or over them. In adventure golf, the features are often next to the holes, with players instead having to negotiate humps, bumps and big slopes. Minigolf is the umbrella term for the sport as a whole.

What are the costs involved in opening a miniature golf course?

The costs of opening a mini-golf business vary, but typically run up $500,000. One professional group estimates that it will cost between $15,000 t...

What are the ongoing expenses for a miniature golf course?

The good news is that after the initial expenses to open a course, the ongoing expenses are relatively minor. Some of the costs will vary by busine...

Who is the target market?

In general, your best clients will be families. This is because the parents will help to control the behavior of children (which will not be true o...

How much can you charge customers?

The exact cost may vary by region, but it is typical to charge customers about $5 to $7 to play 18 holes. This pricing makes your business a very c...

How much profit can a miniature golf course make?

The exact amount of profit your business makes greatly depends on the region as well as what the local entertainment competition is. However, the r...

How can you make your business more profitable?

In order to maximize profitability, be sure to have an advertising presence in logical areas for potential customers, including schools, churches,...

Is this Business Right For You?

This job is definitely for someone who is enthusiastic about mini-golf. This helps you to not only enjoy your job but to facilitate minor repairs a...

What happens during a typical day at a miniature golf course?

The daily activities for a mini-golf business are pretty simple. You will be talking to customers, taking their payment, providing them with equipm...

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful miniature golf course?

Prior experience working at a mini-golf business or other type of recreational center can be helpful to in starting this business. Similarly, being...

What is the growth potential for a miniature golf course?

The exact growth potential of a mini-golf business varies by area. Nationally, businesses that focus purely on mini-golf have experienced a decline...

Why is it important to choose a location for a mini golf course?

The location you intend to choose for your mini golf course is very important as this could make the difference between the growth and failure of the business. This is why it is advised that you conduct a thorough research regarding the business before starting it so that you do not end up running a business that will drain your resources.

How do I start a mini golf business?

When looking to start your mini golf business, you should be aware of the various competitions that you are likely to face and be prepared for it. One of the ways by which you can compete is via marketing. Marketing is the ability to determine what it is your target market wants and then create strategies that will ensure that these needs are met.

What is the service delivery process for mini golf?

The service delivery process involved in a mini golf business includes talking to the customers that come to the mini golf, taking their payment, giving them the necessary equipment that they require, and also explaining regulations that are specific to the course.

How long have mini golf courses been around?

Mini golf courses have been in existence for about a hundred years and it is an American form of entertainment that has remained viable ever since. Mini golf courses are regarded as one of the few American cultural icons left and can be found in cities, suburbs, and even rural towns across the country.

Why is it important to have a mini golf course?

Having strategies in place that will boost publicity for your mini golf course is very important, this is because not only will you be creating awareness for your business but you will also be able to convert most of the awareness to revenue for your business.

What is complimentary location?

A complimentary location is one where there are several other attractions where the mini golf is such as tourist spots, shopping malls, amusement parks, bowling centers and such other entertainment centers. In getting a location, you should ensure that it meets the requirements that a mini golf course should have.

Why is location important in mini golf?

In running a mini golf business, location is very important as it can help keep you in competition. This means that customers do not want to drive or travel too far before they are able to enjoy the social activity that a mini golf provides especially with the many alternative entertainment options available.

What Our Owners Say?

"The people at Harris were efficient, effective and flexible. I was on site every day during construction and the guys were always asking me for my input. They would take what I suggested and make it happen. They were on time and on budget, which was an absolute delight! Best of all, I’ve made a ton of money in the miniature golf business."

The Harris Guarantee

At Harris, we always provide our clients with the full extent of our talents. We believe in the little things that will make all the difference between a job well done and a job remarkably done. The courses we build not only meet, but surpass customers’ expectations. We complete our projects on budget and on time.

Jump-Start Your Existing Business

Turn your restaurant, driving range, amusement park, ice cream stand, or other businesses into a money generating machine with a miniature golf course by Harris. Countless of our clients announced that generated earnings by their new miniature golf courses far exceed any other sales.

What to consider before building a mini golf course?

Another important factor to consider before building a mini golf course business is how much you can charge for tickets. This can determine how many people you attract, what kind of people, as well as how quickly you recoup your costs and make a profit.

What is the motto of a mini golf course?

The old real estate motto, ‘Location, location, location!’ also applies to building a mini golf course business. Choosing the right location can be a huge factor in determining your success.

Is it hard to build a mini golf course?

Building a mini golf course business is not as difficult as you might think. To start with, contracting a turnkey company like Mini Golf Creations to design, build and deliver a ‘ready-to-play’ course can make life a whole lot easier. However, before embarking on any new business venture, it’s very important to do your research to ensure your ...

What does it mean to know your market?

Knowing your market means understanding who your average customer is: their interests, needs, desires, etc. This may mean conducting market research, or simply thinking about how to attract your target market.

Do you need a business to run a mini golf course?

Know the business. You don’t need any special qualifications to run a mini golf course business. In fact, once the course is built, the business will practically run itself with limited staffing and maintenance. It can also generate strong ongoing returns. However, it’s a good idea to know the ins and outs of running a mini golf business ...

How many holes are there in a mini golf course?

Traditional mini-golf courses usually consist of one 18- hole course. However, having two 18-hole courses can be key to gaining repeat business and driving profits up. Having 2-18 hole courses give customers more variety and reduce crowding and lines, which is good for keeping customers around.

How much does it cost to maintain a mini golf course?

Overall, maintenance costs for running a mini-golf course can vary but mostly fall in the $40,000-$70,000 range annually. Now let’s talk about revenue.

What is the biggest variable in start up costs?

The biggest variable in start-up costs is the price of the land, which can differ drastically depending on the state. In more rural areas, you may be able to find more land for a cheap while in denser urban areas land prices may be much higher.

How many people play mini golf?

It is estimated that every year over 130 million people play mini-golf, generating a total annual revenue of over $1 billion for course owners. Mini-golf is a lucrative business because it has great potential for growth ...

What are some examples of features and costs to take into account when building a course?

Some examples of features and costs to take into account when building a course include: Water systems like streams, ponds, pumps, and drainage ditches. Water hazards are a popular addition to mini-golf courses. Elevation changes. A flat course is a boring course, some dips and dives add to the experience.

What is flat course?

A flat course is a boring course, some dips and dives add to the experience. Elevation changes can dramatically alter costs. Themes and structures. Depending on how extravagant you want your course to be, building structures to match the theme may cost the most of your building budget. Lighting.

How much is 7x72x12?

If you are running at full capacity for 12 hour days, that comes out to 7x72x12 = $6,480 a day from admission alone, not including any extra spent on food and other sources of entertainment. Obviously, no mini-golf course can operate at full capacity all the time for 12 hour days.

Why are there two 18 hole golf courses?

Having two 18-hole courses can be key to promoting repeat business and profitability for your facility. Two courses not only create more choices and challenges for players, they provide the capacity necessary to accommodate large crowds on summer evenings and weekends.

Do elevation changes have to be expensive?

Elevation changes do not have to be extreme or expensive, and can often be accomplished by taking advantage of your site’s existing features. Finally, Harris courses are designed to avoid backups and ensure maximum flow.

Is miniature golf a seasonal business?

In many areas, miniature golf is a seasonal business. Many contractors won’t have construction crews available during the peak spring and early summer construction seasons. Every day waiting for a construction crew is another day you aren’t making money.

Can you build a miniature golf course?

Here are some things to consider: Building a miniature golf course is part construction project and part art form. Just because a contractor can pour concrete doesn’t mean he can build a miniature golf course.

Is mini golf a regulation golf course?

Mini golf courses that are fun, challenging and interesting keep customers coming back and attract more customers through word of mouth. While mini golf is not regulation golf in miniature, Harris courses incorporate undulating and banked greens, water, sand traps, rough turf and other features that make regulation golf fun and challenging.

How to make a mini golf course profitable?

There are steps you can take to make sure your business will be profitable. 1. Get the design right. Getting a professionally designed mini golf course that looks amazing and plays superbly is a huge part of making sure your business is a success. ...

Why are mini golf courses so popular?

In general terms, mini golf courses have a broad appeal and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Whereas other attractions—such as go cart racing, arcades, water slides, paintball games, ...

What is the best way to run a business?

attract all age groups. are cheap to run – low staffing needs of 1 or 2 people. have cheap equipment cost (putters and balls) provide large profit margins. give high return on investment (ROI) pay themselves off quickly (often in 1-3 years) require low liability insurance. are a fun business to run.

Can mini golf courses be successful?

In other words, if your mini golf course is memorable (for all the right reasons) it is more likely to be successful. Mini Golf Creations can design a professional mini golf course to suit your needs. Contact us to discuss your course. 2. Get a quality course built by professionals.

Is it a good idea to start a mini golf business?

It’s never a good idea to go into a new business blindly. A big part of creating a profitable mini golf business is to research the industry, market and local area. For example, you don’t want to open a mini golf course right down the road from a competing business.

Is mini golf a good investment?

However, a mini golf course can be a very safe and lucrative business investment. Below we’ll explore why miniature golf courses are profitable and how you can make sure yours is a profitable exercise.

What is mini golf?

Let your kids know what mini golf is. Mini golf is a game where players try to get a ball in a hole in the least number of shots. Mini golf is fun because you can create fun obstacles for your holes. While traditional golf is played with 18 holes, mini golf is played with nine but you can vary how many holes depending on the location.

How to make a hole in a game?

Hole 1: Create a ramp with a book leaning against musical chimes or a toy xylophone. If hit properly, the ball moves up the ramp and over the chimes to create a fun sound before it makes it to the hole. Hole 2: Use canned food or cereal boxes as obstacles and use your kitchen to create a fun food theme.

How to cut a hole in MDF?

Cut your hole. Close to one end of your MDF panel, mark of your hole slightly off-center. Make a hole at this mark with a drill fitted with 4-inch hole saw. Flip the panel over once the drill has poked through and continue cutting the hole from the other side to prevent the MDF from splintering.

How many people edit wikihow?

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 15 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 65,340 times.

How many references are there in WikiHow?

To create this article, 15 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.

How to make a bucket out of duct tape?

Community Answer. Just cut the bottom of the bucket out to make it. The lower three inches. Then you make an opening through each piece, and attach them with duct tape. Line up the (open) ends, and then you can spread them apart to make a loop. Once you've done that, screw (or tape/glue) the sides to a block.

Is mini golf good for kids?

This is a great course for very young children. The driveway mini-golf course is great for accuracy as the difficulty increases as you place the holes further and further away. Tape down your cups as each hole and place them at varying distances from the edge of the driveway.

What is Castle Golf?

Castle Golf is a premier designer and builder custom miniature golf courses, both indoor and outdoor. For over 40 years Castle has been building a wide range of course styles, always with an emphasis on longevity and recurring play. Not only do we provide these distinctive courses, we also have a variety of approaches to fit most budgets ...

Who built Raptor Falls Adventure Golf?

Bree and Cliff Gajtkowski of Arundel Maine have retained Castle Golf for the design and build of the dinosaur themed Raptor Falls Adventure Golf. Bree and Cliff did their homework vetting out several Mini Golf Builders and chose Castle golf because of their attention to detail and forward-thinking approach...

Where is the Kellogg's factory?

100 Kellogg Lane Company have retained Castle Golf for the design and build of the ‘All of Canada’ themed indoor Adventure Golf Course located at the old Kellogg’s Factory in London, Ontario, Canada.

Is Castle Golf a good value?

Whatever your budget, when you choose Castle Golf, you'll get outstanding quality at an excellent value from a proven industry leader. Fun Park Elements Design and Planning. Castle Golf can also assist you with other elements for your Fun Park and other outdoor attractions.

Does Castle Golf have a fun park?

Castle Golf can also assist you with other elements for your Fun Park and other outdoor attractions. This includes go-kart tracks, bumper boat lagoons, batting cages, and plaza areas in an effort to help its clients maximize fun and profit.

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