• May 10, 2025
  • Mini Golf,
  • Georgie

If you have an open, unused lot, or want to transform an old operation into a profitable business, you’ve come to the right place! At Mini Golf Creations, we specialise in transforming spaces into thriving courses that have high revenue and long-lasting, fun and simple operations.

Today, we’re going to cover how to take a commercial lot and turn it into a golf course with all our best practices. From checking council regulations to designing the course, then running the business with effective marketing, you’ll learn everything you need to create a successful new entertainment venue.

How Can I Make a Commercial Lot into a Profitable Mini Golf Business?

Is it the Right Space for a Mini Golf Course?

First, you have to analyse the lot and consider if it’s going to work for a mini golf course. Luckily, mini golf courses are super versatile, so they can be built in a huge variety of spaces. However, because you’re starting a profitable business, it’s always best to be strategic.

Make sure the area has:

  • High foot traffic: Will lots of people see the mini golf course? Is it in an area that attracts people, like tourists?
  • Accessibility: How hard is it to get to? What are the public transport or parking options? Is the lot able to be made wheelchair accessible?

You also have to check that it’s a space where a mini golf course can be built, so look at:

  • Local Regulations: If there are zoning ordinances that prohibit or limit your ability to use the lot commercially, this may stop you in your tracks.
  • Permits: Look at how to get the right permits, and what these may cost.
  • Building Ability: Will the lot be able to be connected to water, electricity, etc.? Are the roads accessible? If not, this may not be the best place for an entertainment venue.
Finally, look at what you have in terms of space and layout, for example:
  • Where will the course go, and in what flow?
  • Where will the equipment kiosk go?
  • Is there room for a cafe or shop?
  • Where will restrooms and other facilities be best located?

What will be the Initial Investments?

Of course, starting any business means investments, but you want to make the most of the money you spend – and set yourself up for good revenue so you can start profiting as soon as possible. Courses can come at different costs depending on many factors, but simple, small courses can be quite affordable, so there are options for everyone!

The Course:

First, preparing the site is a vital investment. You may need excavation, drainage, landscaping, or more. You’ll also look at the surface here and decide what to invest in: concrete, foam, synthetic grass, real grass, etc. Make sure you go for the best options in this stage, as you’re setting the foundation for the whole course. Choose reliable companies that will give you the highest quality job, as this sets you up for more success and prevents costly repairs.

You’ll also have to design the course in this stage. Will it be themed? What will it cost to get the right look and feel, from props to painting? Your course obstacles and features will also range in cost, and again you’ll want to go for high quality. Interactive features, lighting, speakers, and so much more add to the design but can be expensive.

Staff and Equipment:

Hiring the right people is key to a successful business. Choose staff who are friendly and have a passion for mini golf. They should be able to communicate with a wide range of customers. Hiring staff with experience in entertainment venue work can be a huge benefit, but anyone with retail or hospitality experience should have the basic skills needed.

Getting the right equipment and training staff on how to use it properly is also vital. Of course, equipment will need maintenance and repairs over time, and may sometimes need replacing. From getting the highest quality clubs and balls, to the scorecards, pencils, and other accessories, having the right equipment gives the customer the best experience. Great equipment and customer service increase their likelihood to keep coming back and recommending the venue to others.

Other Expenses:

Don’t forget to factor in other potential investments, like:

  • Marketing fees
  • Permit costs
  • Insurance
  • Accounting fees
  • Consulting fees
  • Legal fees

How Do Costs Differ Between Courses?

  • Size and theme: The larger the course, and the more complex the theme, the higher the investment will be.
  • Location: Different locations often have different prices for services, as well as different prices for the land and permits.
  • Additions: Adding extras like a cafe, arcade, seating area, shop, or more will increase your costs.

Marketing Strategies to Entice Customers

A huge part of boosting revenue is using the right marketing strategies to bring in your target market and keep them coming back. Some strategies, like social media, can be ‘free’ except for your time and effort. However, advertisements, building a website, and more are often costly. Here are some standard aspects of mini golf course marketing:

  • Branding: Logo, colours, name, and promotional materials.
  • Website: A clear, SEO friendly site that’s regularly updated.
  • Partnerships: Look at sponsoring and events with local businesses or even influencers to boost awareness of your course.
  • Rewards Programs: Keep customers coming back with rewards for their loyalty.
  • Specials: Have deals that encourage new and returning customers to visit.

Do Mini Golf Courses Have Potential Challenges to Prepare For?

Of course, no business endeavour is foolproof. Here are some issues that may come up and affect your revenue:

  • Competition: What entertainment venues already exist near the lot? Is there already a mini golf course?
  • Demand: Do the people in the area want a new entertainment venue? Are there off seasons, when you may face low revenue?
  • Maintenance: Do you have the budget for keeping the course in top condition, as well as maintaining the venue and equipment?

To keep revenue up, try additional income streams that will give you a boost even in challenging times, like:

  • Events: You can host all kinds of events at a mini golf course, from corporate team building days to fundraisers, and of course birthday parties.
  • Food: Capitalise on your dining options to give a further offering to customers.
  • Shop: Create a shop based on your course’s theme that sells fun items, course merchandise, and mini golf equipment.

Chat with Us at Mini Golf Creations

We’re the worldwide mini golf design , building, and maintenance experts. Read more about how to build a mini golf course business. If you want to turn your commercial lot into a profitable business that’s lots of fun, contact us today for a consultation.