inflatable mini golf courses

Inflatable Mini Golf Courses: A Complete Guide

Inflatable mini golf courses are a fun, unique, and convenient way to enjoy mini golf at birthday parties, fundraisers, festivals, corporate events, and other types of occasions. 

These mini golf courses are made of inflatable materials and can be either rented or purchased, depending on the vendor. Another great thing about these inflatable mini golf course sets is that they come in a variety of designs and themes. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at which occasions they’re most suitable for, whether it’s best to rent or purchase them, what to look out for when buying or renting an inflatable mini golf course, and how to set them up!

What Type of Events are Inflatable Mini Golf Courses Suitable For?

Having an Inflatable mini golf course at any type of event is a great way to spruce things up, as they offer a unique and fun experience to people of all ages and skill levels. They can be used for parties, corporate events, festivals, and various other types of occasions. 

  • Parties: Inflatable mini golf courses are a fun and unique way to entertain guests at children’s birthday parties, get-togethers, family reunions, and other types of celebrations.
  • Personal Use: It’s also common to consider purchasing an inflatable mini golf course for personal use in your backyard or indoor space. It’s an even better idea if you have kids, as it offers countless hours of fun and is easy to set up.  
  • Corporate Events: These courses can be used for corporate events or activities and are a great way to entertain guests, attendees, clients, or employees at company events and functions.
  • Team Building: They also make for a great form of entertainment in various types of team-building sessions. Make sure to read our guide our comprehensive guide on organizing and hosting a mini golf team-building event
  • Festivals: Inflatable mini golf sets are also considered to be a popular rental attraction at festivals, fairs, carnivals, and other community or public events. 
  • Fundraisers: They can also be used at fundraiser events as a fun and entertaining activity that can generate significant revenue for the respective cause.

As you can see, there are various types of occasions that inflatable mini golf courses can be used for. The reason they make a great addition to any event is that they are easy to set up and are also relatively affordable while offering guests a fun and memorable experience.   

What to Look Out For Buying or Renting an Inflatable Mini Golf Course

There are various aspects to consider when it comes to renting or buying one of these inflatable attractions. Whichever option you take, you’ll need to consider your budget and storage options, as well as the size of the course and the occasion it’s going to be used for.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these aspects so that you’ll be able to make an informed decision. 

Budget

A 9-hole inflatable mini golf course typically costs between $2,000 to $5,000, which can be a significant investment (although a child-friendly version only costs a couple of hundred dollars).

On the other hand, the cost of renting one adds up to about $400 – $600 per day, considering various additional charges such as next-day pickup, overnight usage, and more. 

Under the bottom line, when working with a limited budget, renting may be a more affordable option than purchasing one.

Size

Inflatable mini golf courses come in various sizes, depending on their configuration (3, 6, o 9 holes). If you’re working with limited space, it may be best to opt for a smaller version with 3 to 6 holes. 

Conversely, if you have a large event space with many guests attending, it would be a better idea to purchase or rent a 9-hole course instead. This allows more players to participate at the same time.

Occasion

The type of occasion and the frequency of usage are also important factors to consider. If you’re expecting a large turnout at your event, renting a course may be a better option as it will allow you to have multiple holes available to accommodate more players.

If you plan to host mini golf events frequently, such as for recurring corporate events or community festivals, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to purchase an inflatable mini golf course.

Storage

Storing these mini golf courses can be challenging, as even when deflated can take up a significant amount of storage space. When working with limited storage, purchasing a smaller 3 to 6-hole course or renting one may be a better option.

Set-Up

If you purchase an inflatable mini golf course, you’ll also be tasked to set it up yourself. Although you may be able to get helps from family and friends, it’ll be a less convenient option than renting one, as the vendor typically sets it up for you. 

Take note that owning one will require regular maintenance to keep it in good and usable condition (you may also need to get an air pump) while renting eliminates the need for maintenance.

Reasons Why Inflatable Mini Golf Courses Are Great for Events

There are various reasons why you should consider renting or buying an inflatable mini golf attraction. We’ll get into some of the details below.

  • It’s Fun & Enjoyable – Playing mini golf on an inflatable course is a unique and enjoyable activity that caters to people of all age groups. At events or in the backyard, they offer a fun and engaging experience.
  • They’re Easy to Set Up – These inflatable attractions are also relatively easy to set up with an air pump. If you’ve opted for a rental unit, the setup is typically carried out by the respective vendor.
  • They’re Relatively Affordable – Renting or purchasing an inflatable mini golf course can be a cost-effective way to provide entertainment for any type of event. 
  • They’re Versatile – They’re also versatile (being usable indoors and outdoors) and can be used for various types of occasions including festivals, team-building sessions, and private parties. 

Where to Buy Inflatable Mini Golf Courses

Here is a list of vendors that sell or provide rental services for inflatable mini golf courses. We’ve made sure to provide the vendor name, country, type (rental vs purchase), estimated price range, and a link to their website.

VendorCountryTypePrice RangeWebsite
Cutting Edge CreationsUnited StatesPurchase$2,000 – $6,000Link
Extra Fun JumpersUnited StatesRentalLink
Record a HitUnited StatesRentalLink
HammacherUnited StatesPurchase$200+Link
Clown AroundUnited StatesRentalLink
Texas SumoUnited StatesRentalLink
Bounce House R UsUnited StatesRental$500+Link
Better BouncesUnited StatesRental$500+Link
Lifespan KidsAustraliaPurchaseAUD 200Link
Niagra InflatablesCanadaRentalLink

How to Set Up an Inflatable Mini Golf Set

When setting it up, you will need an air pump and a large enough area. Please see the official manufacturer’s handbook or request the vendor for guidance if further help is required. 

  1. Choose a suitable location with a flat surface that is large enough (check the dimensions on the box or with the vendor). The location should be free from hazards such as holes, rocks, and slopes. 
  2. Unpack the inflatable mini golf course and lay it out in the chosen location. Make sure it’s evenly laid out with no overlapping areas. 
  3. Start inflating the course using an air blower (you can either purchase or rent one). When it’s inflated, ensure that it’s stable.
  4. Arrange the obstacles, hazards, and holes according to the instructions provided.
  5. Test the course to ensure that everything is set up correctly and functioning as intended. Make sure to test every hole and check again if the course is stable.
  6. Then, set up the equipment and scorecard booths for the guests of your event. If you’re setting this up in your backyard, you can keep the clubs and balls in your shed.
  7. At the end of the event, deflate the mini golf course completely and pack it up. Make sure that you store it in a safe and dry space. 

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and have answered them below for further reference. If you would like to have your questions answered, feel free to contact us anytime.

Should I Rent or Buy One?

Whether to buy or rent an inflatable mini golf course depends on your budget and frequency of use. If you’re going to use it frequently and are able to spend between $2,000 to $5,000, then purchasing one may be better. 

However, if you’re organizing a one-off event and are working with a limited budget of about $500 to $600, then the rental option may be better for you.

How Long Does the Setup Take?

Setting up an inflatable mini golf course takes about 15 – 20 minutes depending on how many people are helping you with the setup and how large the course is. Take note that this includes using an automatic air blower. 


About Thomas

Thomas writes guides and reviews on minigolfwise and calls himself a mini golf nerd. Once an avid mini golf player, he now dedicates his time teaching others how to perfect their game!