Spend less time on a screen and more time on the green
SRQ Magazine | September 2025
By Barbie Heit
In Recreation+Sports
Miniature golf, AKA putt putt, peewee golf, par-three golf or crazy golf, is the quintessential activity that promises fun for everyone! Regardless of your skill level, mini golf is the ideal way to spend a beautiful day or evening, whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or simply enjoying the company and a few laughs. —B.Heit
POPSTROKE
Come for the golf, stay for the good times—that’s how the ball rolls at PopStroke. With two 18-hole putting courses packed with synthetic fairways, sneaky bunkers and tricky rough patches, this isn’t your average mini-golf. “PopStroke isn’t your typical mini-golf spot—we’ve traded windmills and waterfalls for next-gen design and pro-level putting,” says Assistant General Manager Bruce Chartrand. Powered by the PopStroke app, guests can order drinks to the green, keep digital scorecards, and enjoy oversized TVs, jumbotrons, a full-service kitchen and a lively bar. Off the course, enjoy cornhole, foosball, a kids’ playground and a retro ice cream parlor. Monthly memberships offer unlimited golf and exclusive perks.
Whether you’re here to eat, putt or sip cocktails under the sun, PopStroke Sarasota has it all.
PopStroke, 195 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, 941-500-9495, popstroke.com
EVIE’S MINIATURE GOLF
Set in a beautifully landscaped course, Evie’s Miniature Golf delivers an 18-hole waterfall adventure perfect for all ages. With a par of 40 and handicap-accessible holes, it’s designed for everyone—from kids to seniors. The fun doesn’t stop when the last ball drops. Head over to Evie’s Tavern and Grill for burgers, pizza, fish & chips or happy hour specials. The location also includes an ice cream parlor, arcade, car wash and driving range—perfect for making a full day of it. “The Evie’s Bee Ridge location has something for everyone,” says Manager Colleen Cramer. “Come for family fun and a great atmosphere.”
Evie’s, 4725 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, 941-377-9300, eviesonline.com
SMUGGLERS COVE ADVENTURE GOLF
Looking for something more adventurous? Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf offers a pirate-themed 18-hole experience complete with caves, tunnels, waterfalls, wooden bridges—and real live alligators. Guests can visit the on-site Educational Alligator Exhibit, home to 20–30 American alligators and even feed them using cane fishing poles. With fun obstacles and immersive decor, Smugglers Cove turns a round of putt-putt into a full-blown treasure hunt. “We’re huge fans of mini-golf,” says Manager Sarah Carter. “Whether it’s a date night or family outing, Smugglers Cove offers a fun and memorable escape.” There are five Smugglers Cove locations across Florida, including nearby Bradenton. Open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, it’s a perfect stop for families, parties and tourists alike.
Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf, 3815 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-351-6620. Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf, 2000 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, 941-756-0043, smugglersgolf.com
