As content creators for hudsonfamily.net and mini golf enthusiasts, we recently embarked on a Southern California adventure. Our trip coincided with filming for ABC’s “Holey Moley,” and while in the area, we made it our mission to explore the local mini golf scene. Our first stop, conveniently located near our hotel in Santa Clarita, was Mountasia Family Fun Center. We visited Mountasia not just once, but twice – the first time as a duo and again with fellow “Holey Moley” contestants and mini golf aficionados, including Pat Sheridan from The Putting Penguin, Robin Ventura of Mini Golf Queen, and former collegiate golfer Mollie Peterson (who, by the way, clinched the Golden Putter on “Holey Moley” – congrats Mollie!).
Mollie Peterson winning Holey Moley with the Golden Putter and Green Plaid Jacket at Mountasia Family Fun Center
Mountasia Family Fun Center: A Broad Overview
Mountasia Family Fun Center certainly makes a strong first impression. It boasts a visually appealing food court, a bustling arcade, go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, a rock climbing wall, and, notably, two hillside mini golf courses adorned with prominent water features. The setting is undeniably attractive and promises a full day of family entertainment.
However, our focus quickly shifted to the mini golf courses, and that’s where the experience became a bit more nuanced. While the initial allure of the hillside courses and water features is undeniable, the reality of playing on these courses revealed some significant drawbacks.
Mini Golf at Mountasia: Navigating the Courses
Upon closer inspection, we found that the mini golf courses at Mountasia, while creatively designed to wind up and down the hills, are showing their age. The turf is noticeably worn, in some areas almost threadbare, which unfortunately translates to unpredictable and often frustrating gameplay. Putting became less about skill and more about battling the uneven and aged surfaces. The high par for each course started to feel less like a target score and more like an unattainable aspiration given the course conditions.
Pink Putter entering the mini golf course at Mountasia Family Fun Center near the go kart exit
It’s clear that these courses were once a highlight, and the design still hints at a grander past. The layout takes players on an engaging journey through varied terrain, incorporating caves, bridges, and winding staircases, capitalizing on the hillside setting. The immersive landscaping is a definite plus, providing a scenic backdrop to the game.
Course rules sign at Mountasia Family Fun Center mini golf course at sundown
Overview of the hillside mini golf courses at Mountasia Family Fun Center
However, beyond the initial visual appeal of the landscaping, the courses lack unique theming or engaging obstacles that elevate the gameplay experience. The focus seems to be more on the layout than on innovative or quirky mini golf elements.
Mr. Tee teeing off at Hole 5 of the mini golf course at Mountasia Family Fun Center
Beyond Mini Golf: Exploring Mountasia’s Amenities
As a family fun center, Mountasia excels in providing a diverse range of activities. Beyond mini golf, the go-karts looked exciting, the arcade was filled with games, and the laser tag arena seemed popular. The bumper boats and rock wall add to the list of attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family.
We also appreciated the unique and photogenic food court area, “The Boardwalk Grille.” It offers a convenient dining option within the center, allowing families to refuel between activities.
Pros and Cons of Mountasia Mini Golf
Pros:
- Immersive Hillside Layout: The courses effectively utilize the natural landscape, creating an undulating and engaging path.
- Prominent Water Features: The water features, especially when illuminated at night, add visual appeal to the courses.
- Variety of Amenities: Beyond mini golf, Mountasia offers a wide array of activities, ensuring entertainment for the whole family.
Cons:
- Worn Turf: The aged and torn turf significantly detracts from the playing experience, leading to frustrating gameplay.
- Lack of Theming and Obstacles: The courses could benefit from more creative theming and unique obstacles to enhance the fun factor.
Nerdy Notes for Mini Golf Enthusiasts
- Course Options: Two 18-hole courses are available: Waterfall Ridge (Par 41) and Cavern Trail (Par 42).
- Pricing: $9 per round, with package deals potentially available for multiple activities.
- Accessibility: A 9-hole wheelchair-accessible course is created by combining the first four holes of Waterfall Ridge and the last five holes of Cavern Trail.
- No Flags: Be aware that there are no flags in the holes, which is a minor detail but worth noting for some players.
Mountasia Family Fun Center Scorecard Front Side
Mountasia Family Fun Center Scorecard Back Side
Final Verdict: Mountasia Family Fun Center
Mountasia Family Fun Center is a solid option for families looking for a day of diverse entertainment in Santa Clarita. It offers a wide range of activities beyond mini golf, ensuring there’s something to keep everyone entertained. However, if your primary focus is on playing a high-quality round of mini golf, it’s important to manage expectations. While the hillside setting and water features are visually appealing, the worn condition of the mini golf courses impacts the overall experience. For serious mini golf enthusiasts in the Los Angeles area, there might be better-maintained courses available, but for a family outing with varied interests, Mountasia still holds appeal.
