How to Play Mini Golf at Navy Pier in Chicago

Mini golf at Navy Pier in Chicago is more than just a casual pastime—it’s a beloved Chicago tradition that blends family fun, scenic waterfront views, and carefully designed challenges perfect for players of all ages. Located in one of the city’s most iconic destinations, the Navy Pier Mini Golf course offers a unique fusion of playful obstacles, vibrant themes, and Chicago-inspired architecture that turns a simple round of putt-putt into a memorable outdoor experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend activity or a visitor exploring the city’s top attractions, knowing how to play mini golf at Navy Pier can elevate your visit from ordinary to extraordinary.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know to enjoy mini golf at Navy Pier—from understanding the course layout and rules to mastering techniques that improve your score. We’ll also cover best practices, essential tools, real examples of successful play, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll not only know how to play, but how to play well, confidently, and with full appreciation for the experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Mini Golf Course at Navy Pier

Before you can play, you need to find the course. Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier extending into Lake Michigan on Chicago’s Near North Side. The mini golf course is situated on the upper level of the pier, near the Centennial Wheel and the Chicago Children’s Museum. Look for signage directing you toward “Mini Golf” or “Putt Putt.” It’s easily accessible from the main walkway and is often visible from the pier’s central promenade.

Upon arrival, you’ll notice the course is enclosed in a bright, colorful structure with themed holes that reflect Chicago landmarks—think the Bean, the Willis Tower, and even a replica of a Chicago-style hot dog stand. The entrance is clearly marked, and staff are typically present to assist with ticketing and course orientation.

2. Purchase Your Tickets

Tickets are sold at the kiosk near the entrance. Prices vary by season and time of day, with peak hours (weekends, holidays, and late afternoon) typically costing more than weekday mornings. As of recent updates, adult tickets range from $14–$18, while children’s tickets (ages 3–12) are priced between $10–$14. Family passes and group discounts are often available for parties of four or more.

Payment is cashless—credit and debit cards are accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported. No reservations are required, but during high-traffic periods (especially summer weekends), lines may form. Arriving early (before 11 a.m.) can help you avoid crowds and secure a preferred time slot.

3. Receive Your Equipment

Once you’ve paid, you’ll be issued a putter and a set of golf balls—typically one ball per player. The putters are standard mini golf length, with a slightly heavier head for better control on the course’s varied surfaces. You’ll also receive a scorecard and pencil. Each hole is numbered from 1 to 18, and your scorecard will have a corresponding box for each hole.

It’s important to note: no personal clubs or balls are permitted. This ensures fairness and safety, as the course features custom obstacles that may be damaged by non-standard equipment. Staff may inspect your gear before you begin—compliance is mandatory.

4. Understand the Rules of Play

Mini golf at Navy Pier follows standard putt-putt rules with a few local variations:

• Players take turns based on the score from the previous hole—the lowest score goes first on the next hole.
• Each player must complete the hole before the next player takes their turn.
• Ball retrieval must be done by the player who hit it; no reaching across obstacles or entering restricted zones.
• If a ball gets stuck in a mechanism or obstacle, notify a staff member—they’ll assist without penalizing you.
• Each hole has a par of 2 or 3. Your goal is to complete the course in as few strokes as possible.

Unlike traditional golf, there are no out-of-bounds areas, but there are “dead zones”—areas where the ball may become trapped in a non-playable section (e.g., behind a spinning windmill or inside a tunnel). If your ball enters such a zone, you may replay the shot from the previous position with a one-stroke penalty.

5. Study Each Hole Before You Play

Each of the 18 holes at Navy Pier is uniquely themed and engineered. Some feature moving parts—like rotating windmills, bouncing ramps, or spinning gears—while others rely on elevation changes, narrow tunnels, or water features. Before you swing, take 10–15 seconds to observe:

• The path the ball must take
• Any moving obstacles and their speed
• Where the hole is positioned relative to the starting point
• Any slopes or inclines that could affect ball roll

For example, Hole 7—a replica of the Chicago River bridge—requires you to bank the ball off a metal ramp to reach the cup. If you hit it too hard, the ball will overshoot; too softly, and it won’t make the turn. Watching other players complete the hole can give you valuable insight into the ideal speed and angle.

6. Master Your Swing Technique

Mini golf demands finesse over power. The key is control. Here’s how to perfect your swing:

1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly angled toward the target.
2. Keep your grip light—think of holding a bird, not crushing it.
3. Use a short, smooth backswing, no longer than six inches.
4. Follow through gently toward the target; avoid jerking or lifting the club.
5. Focus on the ball’s contact point: aim for the center to avoid unwanted spin.

On holes with curves or banks, visualize the ball’s trajectory as if it were a billiards shot. Use the walls and rails to your advantage. For instance, on Hole 12—a curved tunnel with a mirrored wall—you can use a bank shot off the side to guide the ball into the cup.

7. Keep Score Accurately

Scorekeeping is part of the experience. Write down each stroke immediately after you sink the ball. If you miss and need a second or third attempt, count each stroke. Don’t guess or round up—accuracy matters, especially if you’re competing.

At the end of the course, total your strokes. A score under 36 (par 36) is considered excellent. Scores between 36–45 are average, and anything above 50 typically indicates room for improvement in technique or course strategy.

8. Exit and Celebrate

After completing Hole 18, return your scorecard to the kiosk. You’ll receive a completion sticker or digital badge if playing during a promotional period. Many visitors take photos at the final hole, often with the skyline of Chicago as a backdrop.

If you’re interested in replaying, discounted re-entry passes are sometimes available. You can also purchase souvenirs like mini golf-themed keychains, hats, or custom scorecards at the gift shop nearby.

Best Practices

Choose the Right Time to Play

Timing significantly impacts your experience. Weekday mornings (9 a.m.–11 a.m.) are ideal for a quiet, relaxed round. Afternoons (2 p.m.–5 p.m.) see moderate traffic, while evenings (6 p.m.–9 p.m.) are the busiest, especially during summer months and holidays. If you’re playing with children or seniors, avoid peak hours to reduce wait times and crowding.

Weather also matters. While the course is partially covered, direct sunlight can make surfaces hot and slippery. On hot days, play early or late. Rain is less disruptive than you might think—the course is designed with drainage, but wet conditions can slow ball roll. Bring a light jacket for lake breezes, even in summer.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

While not strictly enforced, wearing closed-toe shoes is highly recommended. The course features metal rails, wooden ramps, and concrete surfaces that can be rough on sandals or flip-flops. Avoid high heels—they can get caught in gaps or damage the playing surface. Comfortable sneakers or athletic shoes are ideal.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Walking the length of Navy Pier and completing 18 holes can be more physically demanding than expected, especially in summer heat. Bring a water bottle—there are water fountains near the restrooms and food stands. Take a short break after every 6 holes to stretch, rehydrate, and mentally reset.

Play with a Positive Mindset

Mini golf is meant to be fun, not stressful. Don’t get frustrated if you miss a shot or your ball bounces off a ramp. Even seasoned players encounter tricky holes. Use mistakes as learning opportunities. If you’re playing with others, encourage them—celebrate good shots, and laugh off the misses. The atmosphere at Navy Pier is lighthearted and welcoming.

Use the Environment to Your Advantage

The course is designed with Chicago’s identity in mind. Pay attention to architectural cues. For example, Hole 14 mimics the curve of the Chicago River. The angle of the bank is intentional—study the real river’s bend and mirror it in your shot. Similarly, Hole 9 features a miniature replica of the Chicago Fire Department’s alarm bell. The bell’s motion is timed; wait for it to swing away before you putt.

Teach Kids Strategy, Not Just Swings

If you’re playing with children, turn the game into a learning experience. Instead of just telling them to “hit the ball,” ask questions like: “Which way should the ball roll to avoid the windmill?” or “Do you think we need a soft or hard hit here?” This builds spatial reasoning and critical thinking. Many families return year after year because kids enjoy the mental challenge as much as the fun.

Respect Other Players

Stay behind the starting line until it’s your turn. Don’t walk in front of someone who is about to putt. Wait until their ball has come to rest before moving forward. Avoid loud noises or distractions. Remember: everyone is here to enjoy themselves.

Tools and Resources

Official Navy Pier Mini Golf App

Navy Pier offers a free companion app available on iOS and Android. The app includes an interactive map of the mini golf course, real-time wait times, hole-by-hole tips, and a digital score tracker. It also features fun facts about each themed hole—like the history behind the Chicago-style hot dog obstacle or the engineering behind the spinning gears.

Download the app before your visit to enhance your experience. It’s updated seasonally with new challenges and seasonal events.

YouTube Tutorials and Walkthroughs

Search for “Navy Pier Mini Golf Hole-by-Hole Guide” on YouTube. Several local content creators have uploaded full walkthroughs with commentary on optimal angles, timing for moving obstacles, and common pitfalls. These videos are invaluable for visual learners and those planning a return visit.

Printable Scorecards and Strategy Sheets

While not officially distributed, fan-created printable scorecards with par values and hole descriptions are available on community forums like Reddit’s r/Chicago and local parenting blogs. These often include pro tips like “Hole 5: Aim for the left wall, not the cup” or “Hole 16: Wait for the second rotation of the fan.”

Local Mini Golf Clubs and Competitions

Chicago has a small but passionate mini golf community. The “Chicago Putt Putt League” hosts monthly tournaments at Navy Pier and other local courses. These events are open to all skill levels and often include prizes, themed nights, and photo contests. Joining even once can give you insider knowledge and connect you with experienced players.

Weather and Crowd Forecasting Tools

Use apps like Windy.com or the Navy Pier website’s live camera feed to check wind speed and crowd density before heading out. Strong lake winds can affect ball trajectory on open holes. High crowd density may mean longer wait times between turns. Planning around these factors can save you time and frustration.

Photography and Social Media Resources

Many visitors come to Navy Pier for the Instagrammable moments. The course is designed with photogenic backdrops—bright colors, skyline views, and whimsical props. Use natural lighting (early morning or golden hour) for the best photos. Tag

NavyPierMiniGolf to be featured on Navy Pier’s official social channels.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family Who Mastered Hole 12

The Rodriguez family from Naperville visited Navy Pier on a July Saturday. Their 10-year-old daughter, Mia, struggled with Hole 12—a narrow tunnel with a mirrored wall that required a bank shot. On her first attempt, she hit the ball straight into the tunnel wall and it rolled back. Frustrated, she nearly quit.

Her father, Carlos, remembered a YouTube tip he’d watched: “Aim for the lower third of the mirror, not the center.” He showed her how to visualize the shot like a pool bank shot. On her second try, she angled the ball gently, and it bounced off the mirror and into the cup. She cheered. The whole family celebrated. By the end of the round, Mia had the lowest score among them.

Lesson: Sometimes, a small adjustment in aim—based on observation or advice—can turn frustration into triumph.

Example 2: The Competitive Couple Who Broke Par

James and Elena, both in their late 30s and avid golfers, decided to try Navy Pier Mini Golf on a date night. They treated it like a real tournament. Before playing, they studied the course map on the app, watched two walkthrough videos, and practiced their putting stance at home with a mini putter.

On Hole 7, they both used the bank shot off the bridge ramp. James hit it too hard; Elena used a lighter touch and sank it in one. On Hole 15, a water feature with a rising platform, they timed their shots to coincide with the platform’s peak. James scored 34—two under par. Elena scored 36. They posted their scores on social media and were featured in Navy Pier’s monthly newsletter.

Lesson: Preparation and strategy can turn a casual game into a personal best.

Example 3: The Tourist Who Turned a Rainy Day into a Memory

A couple from Texas visited Chicago during a sudden summer storm. Their outdoor plans were canceled, so they ducked into Navy Pier for shelter. Seeing the mini golf course, they decided to give it a try—despite the drizzle.

The wet surface slowed the ball, but they adapted by using a firmer grip and a slightly harder swing. They laughed as the ball slid through the water feature on Hole 11, splashing them both. They took silly photos, played all 18 holes, and left with a new appreciation for Chicago’s quirky charm. They later sent a postcard to the pier thanking them for turning a rainy day into their favorite memory of the trip.

Lesson: Flexibility and humor make any experience better. Sometimes, the best memories come from unplanned moments.

FAQs

Is mini golf at Navy Pier suitable for young children?

Yes. The course is designed for all ages. Children as young as three can play with adult assistance. The obstacles are non-hazardous, and the paths are wide enough for strollers to pass. Staff are trained to assist young players with ball retrieval and understanding the rules.

How long does a round of mini golf typically take?

A typical round takes 30–45 minutes for a group of 2–4 players. Larger groups or families with young children may take up to an hour. Weekday mornings are fastest; weekends can stretch to 60–75 minutes due to wait times between holes.

Can I bring my own putter or golf balls?

No. For safety and fairness, only equipment provided by Navy Pier is permitted. Personal clubs may damage the course or interfere with moving parts.

Is the course accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes. The course features wide, ADA-compliant pathways, and staff can assist with ball placement or provide adaptive putters upon request. Some holes have lower cup heights for wheelchair users. Contact the pier in advance if you need special accommodations.

Do I need to book in advance?

No. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. However, during peak season, lines can be long. Arriving early or visiting on weekdays helps avoid waits.

Are there food or drink options nearby?

Yes. Navy Pier has over 30 dining options, including Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, ice cream stands, and lakeside cafes. Many offer outdoor seating with views of the course.

Can I play at night?

Yes. During summer months, the course is open until 10 p.m. and is beautifully lit with LED lights that highlight the themed obstacles. Nighttime play offers a magical atmosphere and fewer crowds.

What happens if my ball gets stuck in a mechanism?

Notify a staff member immediately. They will reset the obstacle and allow you to replay the shot without penalty. Never attempt to reach into moving parts yourself.

Is there a leaderboard or prize for the lowest score?

There is no official leaderboard, but the course occasionally hosts “Lowest Score Challenges” during holidays or special events. Winners receive free tickets, merchandise, or dining vouchers. Check the Navy Pier website or app for current promotions.

Can I host a birthday party or group event at the mini golf course?

Yes. Navy Pier offers private group bookings for birthdays, corporate outings, and school events. Packages include reserved tee times, group discounts, themed decorations, and catering options. Contact the events team via the Navy Pier website for details.

Conclusion

Playing mini golf at Navy Pier in Chicago is more than a game—it’s an immersive experience that combines physical skill, spatial reasoning, and local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, the course offers something for everyone: whimsical obstacles, stunning views, and opportunities to create lasting memories with family and friends.

By following the step-by-step guide, applying best practices, using available tools, and learning from real examples, you’ll not only improve your game but deepen your appreciation for this unique Chicago attraction. Remember: success in mini golf isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, patience, and playfulness.

So grab a putter, take a deep breath of Lake Michigan air, and step onto the course. The skyline awaits. The holes are waiting. And your best round is just one putt away.