Pelican Pete's Playland is on busy South McCall Road, with cars whizzing by continuously. As if the distraction weren't bad enough, this course is truly challenging, even for die-hard miniature golf aficionados.
The landscaping is immaculate and all accoutrements appear to be in relatively new. The greens are free of debris and the coverings appear freshly replaced.
We went on a sunny January afternoon, and there was only one other party on the course for the first few holes, so we could take our time with the shots. We can state unequivocally that this is not your run-of-the-mill mini golf course. All holes are challenging, some with bankings, obstacles, and some multi-levels.
One of the holes had a deceptively simple water hazard. It was a moat-like affair between two distinct segments. It required more force than we thought to get over the water, as a slight upcurve just before the stream slowed the momentum. Fortunately, and thoughtfully, the management put a grating in the stream just before it cascaded to the level below, so retrieving your wayward ball is an easy matter. Living down your goof, however, may not be so easy.
Hole 15 was closed for renovation, but other than that, the course is in fine shape. Each day, two holes are designated for a free game, if you score a hole-in-one on either. Unfortunately, despite a couple aces, none of ours came on the designated holes...
There is a video arcade that will appeal to teens, a go-kart racetrack, and a mini-railroad for the tiny ones.
Pelican Pete's is an excellent destination for a family activity that's sure to leave everyone with smiles on his or her face. If you're a mini-golf fan, make this a must-do the next time you're in the Englewood area.