Everyone’s favorite public joy creator is bringing all the whimsy to his latest venture: Wonderwood Springs Mini-Golf.
As a mom of two rowdy, fun-seeking boys in Portland, I am always looking for a cheap, indoor play option. Tucked away in the quaint neighborhood of St. Johns is the newest Mike Bennett project — Wonderwood Springs Mini-Golf! You may have seen Mike Bennett’s work in his pop-up Dinolandia in downtown, or his cute animal “Slow down” signs throughout streets in Portland. He never fails to combine humor and whimsy in his projects and Wonderwood Mini-Golf is a perfect example of that!
Open seven days a week, you can bring your whole family to enjoy this 9-hole immersive experience. Each hole has a theme and a story. Expect the unexpected here: golf balls that pop out of their holes, floors that spin, and a course filled with Bennett’s iconic original art. Don’t forget to check out the PDX Parent hole!
Our favorite was No. 5, “Poop Shack Panic,” where the Butt Wizard is busy being the Mayor of Maplehold. This type of humor is right up the allies of my 7- and 11-year-old (pictured above). There are numerous creative elements throughout like a vertical Plinko hole and the Swiss cheese challenge. It is difficult enough of a course to keep your older kids (and the adults) interested but not so hard that the little kids give up right away. We kept it to six tries maximum to keep it fun and lighthearted (and to keep the tears at bay).
It took our family about 45 minutes to finish the course, and we celebrated with ice cream cones next door at the Wonderwood Springs cafe. The venue is also fully ADA-accessible. If you think this might be a great venue for your kid’s next birthday party, you are right! There is a special castle garden room, outfitted for a birthday party for up to 15 kids.
We can’t wait to come back and bring some friends!
If You Go
- Opening day is February 3, 10 am-8:30 pm. Admission is free for kids ages 3 and under, and tickets for ages 4+ are $10.
- Reservations will be available this spring, but Mike Bennett has some surprises in store for those willing to wait in line for their turn.
- Playing nine holes of fantasy miniature golf can work up an appetite. Head to Wonderwood Springs for provisions after you play!
Pro tip: There is currently construction — until June — on the ramp getting onto St. Johns Bridge, so look for alternate routes to avoid the traffic jam (like N. Lombard St. or N Willamette Blvd).
Can’t get enough mini-golf? Check out our full list of family-friendly courses.
- How to Glamp with Your Family - April 30, 2024
- Get a Hole in One at Wonderwood Springs Mini-Golf - February 2, 2024
- Elephant & Piggie are in a Play — at The Judy! - January 8, 2024
