Miniature Golf or Putt Putt? What’s the Difference?

If you’re like many Americans, then you might interchangeably use the words “miniature golf” and “putt putt.” However, you may not know that these are actually different things. Similar to “tissue” and “Kleenex,” one of these terms is terms, “miniature golf,” refers a type of game, and one of them, “Putt Putt” refers to a specific brand of game. But are there differences that go beyond that?

In this month’s blog post, we’re discussing the differences between miniature golf and Putt Putt.

Miniature Golf Vs. Putt Putt

Like we discussed before, Putt Putt is a type of miniature golf—but why is there a difference in the first place? Well, the difference begins with the fact that Putt Putt is, like Kleenex, is the name of a specific brand that people use as a proxy for the game of miniature golf, itself.

However, the differences are more than just semantic. There are some meaningful differences in the style of games that miniature golf and Putt Putt offer.

Miniature Golf

The major characteristic of mini golf that’s different from Putt Putt is an emphasis on obstacles and unconventional course design. You see, miniature golf was created in 1912 as a pastime in North Carolina. However, the game changed roughly 20 years later, during the Great Depression. Around this time, Americans needed sources of entertainment that were either free or extremely low cost. So, they decided to make their own small (or “miniature”) golf courses and use scrap like trash cans and pipes to enhance the game. So, miniature golf developed a legacy of fun and innovative obstacles that players have come to expect.

Putt Putt

While Putt Putt evolved out of miniature golf, it developed an identity of its own. Notably, Putt Putt uses fewer (if any) obstacles, and prefers a sleeker, more traditional course design. Additionally, Putt Putt generally isn’t themed in the way that miniature golf is. Where you might come across mini golf that has “themes” (such as alien, prehistoric, or 80’s), Putt Putt generally prefers a more streamlined design that emphasizes the technical skill of putting. In other words, if you want to work on your short game, then Putt Putt may be the choice for you.

Enjoy an Evening of Miniature Golf in Lansing, Michigan!

Whether you’re looking to spend an evening with friends or up your putting game, we here at Spare Time have some of the best miniature golf in Michigan. No tee times required! Click here to contact us today for more information.