Mini-Golf for All Ages in Warwick, RI

Miniature Golf courses are generally just for family fun, not for highly intensive competitions. Although, it can be what you make of it, depending on the level of sibling rivalry in your group.

The largest and most complex Miniature Gold Course in Warwick, RI is "Mulligan's Island". "Mulligan's Island" is actually located at 1000 New London Ave, right on the Warwick/Cranston line. It is an expansive family fun center that includes batting cages, a driving range, pitch and putt, a picnic area, and plenty of food. But the main attraction is the lavish outdoor miniature golf course, whose highlight is a huge erupting volcano at the center, shooting a ball of fire 25 feet into the air!

The course is well-kept with an adventuresome atmosphere. "Mulligan's Island" has two 18-hole island themed mini-courses (one course is handicapped accessible) full of multi-level terrain, water/rock obstacles, and challenging greens, no two rounds are the same. The facility can accommodate family parties as well as corporate outings. There is also a schedule of special events throughout the summer.

Adults $10, Children 10 and under - $8, group rates are available. Call (401) 464-8855 for further detail. It is open every day from 8am to 8:30pm. www.mulligansisland.com.

If it is raining or threatening to do so, a good alternative is "Monster Mini-Golf" off Route 5, near the Warwick Mall. Although it is aimed at youngsters overall, it is a good, fun alternative for any age. Decorated in black light neon, the course is flat, but it is a full 18 holes, all glows in the dark and you have to follow the neon colors to find your way. Among the eerie, Halloween-like settings, there is a huge dragon that makes its appearance randomly in the far corner.

There are plenty of video games and ticket-winning arcade games (i.e. ski-ball) to play. There are plenty of chairs for tired grandparents to sit and still have full view of their grandchildren playing on the golf course. "Monster Mini-Golf" is equipped to handle birthday parties. Please call in advance for party reservations. (401) 921-5472).

There is no charge to enter the facility. The only charge is for the indoor mini-golf course. Price is based on height. The range is 5.50, 6.50 and 7.50. Really short people are free. Hours are Monday through Friday 2pm to 10pm. Saturday noon to 10pm and Sunday noon to 8pm. www.monsterminigolf.com.

"Putters, LLC" at 650 Bald Hill Rd, Warwick, RI. is situated in the busy shopping area of Route. 2. It can be a good distraction for the kids if the adults want to get in some shopping as well. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 9:30am to 9:30pm. Sunday noon to 6pm. You do not have to rely on Putters for snacks since Route 2 is home to many chain restaurants including fast food that often suits the family taste and budget.

"Putters, LLC" has only been open since 2006, so it is new and clean, although there is no extra entertainment directly on the site. For more information and rates call (401) 822-4653. www.puttersllcri.com