Universal’s CityWalk Orlando mini golf is a great non-park family fun activity. We enjoyed the fun themed mini-golf courses and ambiance at Hollywood Drive-In Golf during our Orlando area vacation.
When you are visiting Universal Orlando and taking a break from Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure playing some mini-golf is a great family activity to try.
My family loves finding unique miniature golf courses when we travel. It’s a fun way to spend time as a family and as the years have gone by the kids have improved their skills, and it has become fun for the entire family.
CityWalk at the Universal Orlando resort has two fun courses and is perfect for a rest day activity when taking time away from the theme parks.
What to Expect at Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal’s CityWalk Orlando
There are two mini-golf courses at Universal CityWalk Orlando. They can be purchased as a double feature or single experience.
They are located at CityWalk and guests staying on-site at a Universal Orlando Hotel can use on-site transportation to get there. Guests staying off-site can park at the parking garage.
Guests can pick between 1950’s sci-fi and horror flick in these interactive 18-hole mini-golf.
The Haunting of Ghostly Greens is a family friendly spooky course featuring a haunted house, giant spider and special effects.
The Invaders from Planet Putt is alien themed and has little green men and space special effect. Both courses are great for the whole family.
7 Tips Universal’s CityWalk Mini-Golf
Timing is Everything
If you want to have the place to yourselves- arrive early. We played early in the morning and it was low crowds. When all the crowds are headed to the park that is the best time to go.
You also want to avoid the peak sun. During our visit in August we couldn’t golf during the afternoon due to the heat. There are very few shaded spots along the course.
If you want to visit late night after the parks expect larger crowds.
Purchase the Two Course Package to Save Some Money
We purchase the two courses and saved a few dollars. The best thing about it is you can use your second course any time. They never expire.
We only did one course during our visit and are saving it for our next visit. Make sure you keep your receipt somewhere you will remember, like a suitcase or wallet you travel with. You can also book online for 10% off.
Take Your Time
There are two courses at Hollywood Drive In Golf: Haunted and Sci-Fi. We did the Haunted one but both are really well themed.
If you visit during a non-busy time, go slow and enjoy it. Take a lot of pictures and read all the fun signs and riddles. Also be sure to check out all the interactive elements throughout the course.
Everyone Doesn’t Have to Golf to Walk the Course
This may not work for all families but typically my husband and I don’t play. We will help the kids and walk the course but we don’t play.
It saves us money, although some places have a non-golfer fee, and it allows us to focus on the kids. Plus 5 people golfing came take a lot of time and when it is busy it is a better option for us.
Stay Hydrated
This is Florida and it can get extremely hot pretty fast. Always stay hydrated and drink water as you play. Plan on visiting early in the day or late in the evening to avoid the high temps and direct sun.
Play the Riddle Scavenger Hunt
At the start of the game the attendant will ask if you would like to do the scavenger hunt. It is a free add on to mini-golf. We played and it was a fun game that has you answering riddles depending on the hole you are at. At the end you turn in your paper for a prize.
Keep Score…Or Don’t
There are times when we keep score and times when we don’t. If it gets a bit too competitive we like to play for fun and forget the scoring. If we do play for score we like to let the winner pick the next ride or attraction at the parks.
Mini golf at Universal is a great way to enjoy all of the fun at Universal Orlando. Spend the morning at CityWalk with mini-golf and Voodoo Doughnut for a family fun morning.
Read Next: Tips to Plan an Awesome Universal Orlando Trip
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Leah has been traveling with her family of 5 since 2012 and sharing her expertise on planning family vacations and visiting theme parks since 2016. Leah has been featured in Visit Rochester, Undercover Tourist, and Home Publications. She has worked with brands like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Hersheypark, Toyota, and various Tourism boards and destinations. Leah creates family travel itineraries based on real trip experiences with her family. Her guides and tips help others plan great family vacations. Learn more about Leah and Five for the Road.
I like how you mentioned that you don’t play as parents. Being able to save money while on vacation can be hard, but saving time is even more important. Imagine how long it would take my wife to swing and complete a min golf course makes me cringe. I would almost say the kids would beat her at the game.
Ha! This is so funny!! Saving time and money!!