Hotels and resorts are always looking for new ways to enhance guest experiences and increase revenue. One effective way to achieve both is by adding a custom mini golf course to their facilities. Mini golf is an enjoyable and inclusive activity that appeals to guests of all ages, making it a valuable addition to any hospitality venue. With the right design and strategic planning, a mini golf course can maximise return on investment (ROI) while offering an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Let’s explore how hotels and resorts can benefit from custom mini golf courses and how they can be leveraged to boost guest satisfaction and revenue.
1. A Unique Guest Experience
Modern travellers are looking for more than just a place to stay; they want engaging activities that add value to their visit. A custom mini golf course provides a fun and relaxing experience that guests can enjoy without leaving the premises. It creates an additional attraction within the hotel or resort, helping to keep guests entertained during their stay.
By offering mini golf, hotels can set themselves apart from competitors and attract families, couples, and business travellers looking for leisure options. A well-designed course with unique themes and creative obstacles can become a talking point, encouraging guests to share their experiences online and recommend the hotel to others.
2. Boosting Revenue Streams
A custom mini golf course provides multiple opportunities for generating revenue. Hotels and resorts can introduce different pricing models to suit their target audience, such as:
- Play fees: Charge guests a reasonable fee to access the course, either as part of their stay package or as a separate charge.
- Event bookings: Mini golf courses can be used to host private events, such as corporate team-building activities, birthday parties, and weddings, adding an extra income stream.
- Food and beverage sales: A strategically placed snack bar or drinks kiosk near the course can increase spending, as guests often look for refreshments while playing.
- Merchandising: Selling branded mini golf items such as scorecards, balls, and themed souvenirs can further contribute to revenue.
By integrating these revenue streams, hotels can see a quick return on their investment while maintaining high levels of guest satisfaction.
3. Low-Cost Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Compared to other entertainment facilities, mini golf courses require relatively low investment and maintenance costs. Once installed, regular upkeep such as cleaning the course, maintaining landscaping, and occasional repainting of obstacles ensures it remains attractive and enjoyable for guests.
With durable materials and a well-thought-out design, a mini golf course can provide long-term value without significant operational costs. This makes it an attractive investment for hotel managers looking for a high return with minimal ongoing expenses.
4. Attracting Families and Groups
One of the most appealing aspects of mini golf is its ability to cater to families and groups. Parents looking for child-friendly activities will appreciate the convenience of having a mini golf course on-site. Likewise, couples and groups of friends can enjoy a friendly competition without having to leave the comfort of the resort.
Hotels that market their mini golf facilities effectively can attract more family bookings and group reservations, resulting in higher occupancy rates and increased overall revenue.
5. Encouraging Longer Stays
Providing engaging on-site activities such as mini golf encourages guests to extend their stay. Instead of seeking entertainment elsewhere, they are more likely to spend their leisure time within the hotel, making use of additional services such as restaurants, bars, and spa facilities.
An extended stay means more spending, which directly impacts the hotel’s bottom line. Additionally, offering exclusive mini golf packages or discounts can incentivise guests to book longer stays.
6. Opportunities for Themed Branding
A custom mini golf course offers an excellent opportunity for branding and theming that aligns with the hotel’s overall aesthetic and identity. For example, a beachfront resort could incorporate a tropical-themed course with palm trees and water features, while a luxury hotel might opt for a more sophisticated, elegant design.
Themed courses not only enhance the guest experience but also provide great marketing opportunities. Hotels can promote their unique courses through social media, travel blogs, and promotional videos, attracting more attention and bookings.
7. Seasonal and Special Promotions
Hotels and resorts can use their mini golf facilities to run seasonal events and promotions, such as:
- Holiday-themed tournaments: Christmas, Easter, or summer-themed mini golf events can draw in families and encourage repeat visits.
- Loyalty programmes: Offering discounts or complimentary games to returning guests helps build loyalty and encourages repeat bookings.
- Social media contests: Encouraging guests to share their mini golf experiences online can generate free publicity and attract new visitors.
These initiatives keep the mini golf course relevant throughout the year and create excitement among guests.
Installing a custom mini golf course is a strategic investment that can bring significant returns for hotels and resorts. It enhances the guest experience, creates additional revenue streams, and helps attract a diverse audience. With low maintenance costs and high entertainment value, mini golf is a cost-effective way to boost occupancy rates, encourage longer stays, and stand out in the competitive hospitality market.
By investing in a well-designed, engaging mini golf course, hotels and resorts can ensure their guests leave with lasting memories while also benefiting from a solid return on investment.
