We’ve all had a go at crazy golf, haven’t we? Whether it was navigating a ball through a mini windmill or trying to avoid a plastic pirate ship, crazy golf is one of those timeless pastimes that brings back a wave of nostalgia. But did you know that crazy golf goes by many other names around the world? Depending on where you are, you might hear people calling it something entirely different. So, what exactly are these other names for crazy golf, and why do they vary? Let’s take a little dive into the world of mini-golf, adventure golf, and beyond!
The Many Faces of Crazy Golf
While most of us in the UK are used to calling it “crazy golf,” this isn’t the only name the game goes by. In fact, the terminology can change based on location, the style of the course, or just personal preference. The most common alternative names for crazy golf are:
- Mini-golf
- Adventure golf
- Putt-putt
Each of these terms carries a slightly different flavour, so let’s explore what they mean and how they’ve come to be used.
Mini-Golf: The Global Name
Perhaps the most widely recognised name for crazy golf around the world is mini-golf. This term is especially popular in the United States, where the game is often referred to as such, and it’s increasingly common in other parts of the world too. While “mini-golf” might sound a bit more sensible than “crazy golf,” the name describes the same thing — a miniature version of the full-scale golf game, typically focused on putting.
In many ways, mini-golf is the umbrella term under which all forms of smaller, novelty golf fit. Whether it’s a simple course with a few obstacles or a more complex, themed course, people will generally know what you mean when you say “mini-golf.” The name also implies that the game is a family-friendly activity, with an emphasis on fun rather than skill or competition. So, whether you’re at a seaside resort or a local leisure centre, the concept remains the same: miniature golf courses with varying levels of creativity and challenge.
Adventure Golf: Themed Fun
Then we have adventure golf, which is a slightly more modern take on the game and has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Adventure golf typically refers to courses that go beyond the basic windmills and loop-the-loops of traditional crazy golf and offer a more immersive, themed experience. You might find yourself putting your way through a jungle, navigating caves, or even encountering animatronic dinosaurs along the way.
Adventure golf courses are often designed with an overall theme in mind, and they can be quite elaborate. It’s not just about getting the ball in the hole anymore; it’s about the experience of journeying through the course. Think pirate ships, castles, or underwater worlds — these courses are designed to take you on an “adventure,” hence the name.
This trend toward more elaborate and themed courses has made adventure golf popular in cities and tourist destinations where the aim is to provide a memorable experience, especially for families and groups looking for a bit of novelty. In places like London or Edinburgh, adventure golf venues are popping up, with indoor options that allow you to play year-round, rain or shine.
Putt-Putt: A Quirky American Cousin
If you ever find yourself in the United States, you might hear people refer to the game as putt-putt. This name comes from a specific style of miniature golf that originated in the US. In fact, Putt-Putt is actually a trademarked name, developed by the Putt-Putt Fun Center chain, which was founded in the 1950s. Putt-putt courses are often more straightforward than the crazy, obstacle-filled courses we’re used to in the UK, with a focus on precision and skill.
Unlike traditional crazy golf, where the fun often comes from trying to navigate wacky challenges, putt-putt courses are designed with fewer distractions and rely more on well-designed holes that require careful shots. In many cases, the obstacles are less about novelty and more about encouraging accurate putting. But don’t worry, putt-putt is still a good laugh — it’s just a slightly different take on the game.
Is It Still Crazy Golf?
In the UK, we still tend to stick with the term crazy golf, and for good reason. It captures the light-hearted, wacky nature of the game. You don’t have to be a serious golfer or even take yourself too seriously to enjoy it. The term “crazy” really sums up the spirit of the game, with its playful, chaotic obstacles and general sense of fun.
While mini-golf and adventure golf are perfectly acceptable names, they don’t quite convey the same sense of absurdity that “crazy golf” does. In British seaside towns, crazy golf courses have been a fixture for decades, and the tradition of naming them as such just feels right.
Which One Should You Use?
So, which name should you go with? It really depends on where you are and who you’re talking to. If you’re in the UK, crazy golf is still the go-to term, especially if you’re playing at one of those old-school seaside courses that haven’t changed in 30 years. However, if you’re at a more modern, themed venue, you might find that the term “adventure golf” fits better.
When you’re abroad, “mini-golf” is usually your safest bet, especially if you’re in the US, where “crazy golf” might not be as widely understood. And if you find yourself in a more traditional or skill-based setting, you might encounter “putt-putt.”
Whatever you call it, the game remains the same: a fun, light-hearted way to pass an afternoon with friends or family, whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or just having a laugh at the increasingly absurd obstacles in your way.
