Mega-mini fun

It’s a challenging and colorful golf course with 18 holes on contoured putting greens that are perfectly playable for virtually any age or physical level.

Only putters allowed, please.

Putt’n Around—one of only a couple miniature golf opportunities in Kootenai County, located at 2910 E. Seltice Way in Post Falls—is gearing up for its 13th season.

In a climate that usually sees snowfall six months out of the year, some might think an outdoor miniature golf course is be risky business. But Putt’n Stuff owner Angie McFadden has pulled it off.

“We’re getting things ready and excited for another year,” McFadden said recently as she showed of the custom-built course that even includes a water jump on hole No. 16, plus a chance for a freebie round of golf by nailing a “Plinko”-style challenge at the end.

When her boys (now 24 and 18) were growing up, McFadden says the family went on many vacations and always enjoyed miniature golf. But she didn’t see as much of an opportunity after moving to the area about 20 years ago.

“We always had so much fun and we thought it’d be a good idea to bring it here,” she says.

So, she and her husband, Matt, spent about six weeks building their course back in 2006.

At just $6 per person per round (McFadden isn’t strict on limiting people to a single, 18-hole round), Putt’n Around is affordable by today’s entertainment standards. One round typically takes about an hour.

At Putt’n Around, Keenan Olenslager of Coeur d’Alene raves about the low-energy, high-fun opportunity.

“My wife, kids and I love this place,” he said. “It’s a great course and there are even a couple tunnels to roll the ball through. We had a blast!”

Aside from golf, Putt’n Around visitors can enjoy burgers and more at the Surf Shack in the business’s parking lot. Thirsty customers can opt for a $1.50 float including root beer, orange, huckleberry and cream soda.

McFadden is quick to point out that golfing at her business is for everyone.

“Nine of the 18 holes are handicapped- and- stroller- accessible,” McFadden says. “Some people worry about the little kids or elderly, but they do just fine.”

Cierra Gallian, also of Coeur d’Alene, endorsed the Putt’n Around experience on the business’s website.

“It’s the perfect amount of time to spend doing an activity,” she said. “My boyfriend and I will definitely be back.”

Gearing up for the busy summer season, hours are currently limited. Putt’n Around is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. But after Memorial Day weekend, hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Information: (208) 964-4304