Established
1954
Franchise Units
25
Minimum Investment
$750,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$2,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
Putt-Putt Fun Center is one of the most recognizable and family-friendly entertainment brands in the United States. For decades, the brand has been associated with clean, safe, and affordable fun—bringing together miniature golf, arcade games, birthday parties, and group celebrations under a proven and time-tested business model.
Positioned within the fast-growing Family Entertainment Center (FEC) industry, Putt-Putt Fun Center attracts a wide range of customers including families with children, teenagers, schools, corporate groups, and tourists. Unlike trend-driven entertainment concepts, miniature golf and arcade-based experiences remain evergreen, delivering steady foot traffic across generations.
As American consumers continue to prioritize shared experiences over material spending, experiential entertainment brands like Putt-Putt Fun Center remain in strong demand. The franchise offers investors a scalable, community-focused business supported by strong brand recognition, diversified revenue streams, and high repeat visitation—making it an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the U.S. entertainment franchise market.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Well-established and widely recognized brand across the USA
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Recession-resilient entertainment concept with affordable pricing
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Multiple revenue streams under one roof
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Appeals to families, children, teens, schools, and corporate groups
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Strong demand for birthday parties and group events
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Community-driven business model encouraging repeat visits
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Flexible facility formats including indoor, outdoor, or hybrid centers
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Proven operational systems refined over decades
Background
- Brand Name: Putt-Putt Fun Center
- Industry Category: Family Entertainment / Miniature Golf & Arcade
- Established Year: 1954
- Founders: Don Clayton and Bill Hardwick
- Country of Origin: United States
- Franchise Active Units (USA): 25+
Brand Journey & Company History
Putt-Putt Fun Center was founded with a clear mission: to create a miniature golf experience that was skill-based, family-friendly, and accessible to all age groups. Over time, the concept evolved to include arcade games, birthday party hosting, and group entertainment, transforming locations into full-scale family entertainment centers.
Throughout its growth, Putt-Putt Fun Center locations became local landmarks in many U.S. communities—hosting school trips, league play, family outings, and celebrations. The brand has continuously adapted to consumer preferences while maintaining its core promise of wholesome, inclusive entertainment.
Support Training
Putt-Putt Fun Center offers comprehensive franchise support designed to guide owners from concept to long-term operation.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection and territory analysis
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Facility layout and design guidance
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Equipment sourcing and installation coordination
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Assistance with permits and regulatory requirements
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Pre-opening marketing strategy and launch planning
Training Programs
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In-depth initial training covering operations, guest experience, and safety
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Arcade and attraction management training
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Staff recruitment and management systems
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Point-of-sale and ticketing system training
Operational & Ongoing Support
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Standard operating procedures and manuals
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Ongoing business coaching and performance reviews
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Vendor and supplier support
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Continuous system updates and best-practice sharing
Marketing & Sales Support
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Local and national marketing frameworks
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Digital marketing and promotional guidance
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Birthday party and group sales programs
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Seasonal campaigns and loyalty initiatives
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Putt-Putt Fun Center franchisee is a motivated entrepreneur or investor with strong leadership skills and a focus on customer experience.
Well-Suited For:
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Family-oriented entrepreneurs
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Multi-unit franchise operators
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Hospitality or retail business owners
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Investors with experienced management teams
Key Characteristics:
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Strong people management and organizational ability
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Passion for community engagement and guest satisfaction
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Sales-oriented mindset for events and group bookings
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Commitment to brand standards and operational excellence
Investment Capability:
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Sufficient capital for build-out and early-stage operations
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Long-term growth perspective
Preferred Locations:
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Suburban family neighborhoods
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Tourist and leisure destinations
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Areas near schools, shopping centers, and entertainment corridors
Financial Detail
| Cost Head | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Real Estate & Build-Out | $400,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Mini-Golf Courses Setup | $150,000 – $500,000 |
| Arcade & Redemption Equipment | $100,000 – $400,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Signage | $50,000 – $150,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Marketing & Grand Opening | $25,000 – $75,000 |
| Licenses, Permits & Insurance | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $75,000 – $200,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $750,000 – $2,500,000 |