About Hollywood Mini Golf
Hollywood Mini Golf is (or was) an indoor mini-golf course located in Portland’s Hollywood District. It joined Portland’s quirky mini golf scene – think Birdie Time Pub’s 9-hole indoor course or Glowing Greens’ 13-hole blacklight adventure . The Hollywood neighborhood itself was renamed after the Hollywood Theatre opened in 1926 , and while the theatre is famous, this venue offered a different entertainment option. Based on public listings, Hollywood Mini Golf was located at 1510 NE 37th Ave . (As of late 2023 it is listed as “Permanently closed” .) It provided casual, family-friendly fun (Portland reviews often note “GOOD VIBES, GOOD FOOD & AWESOME TIMES!!” ) along with padded walls and illuminated holes. Signature features likely included its indoor 3D-themed course (similar to downtown Glowing Greens ) and maybe local culture touches like nearby skate shops. Though it’s not an historic landmark, its presence added a new play spot in the Hollywood area, complementing the district’s movie theaters and eateries.
Events and Programming
Hollywood Mini Golf catered to groups and seasonal events. Like many Portland mini-golf venues, it likely offered birthday and corporate packages . For example, Portland’s Oaks Park offers “exclusive use” private rentals for parties , so Hollywood Mini Golf may have had similar options. The venue may also have adopted seasonal themes: Portland courses often host special mini-golf events (e.g. haunted Halloween golf). One listing notes a “Haunted Mini Golf” event with fog, actors, and prizes for $20 per round . Portland even saw a city-wide Brewvana mini-golf tour in summer 2013, where breweries staged a nine-hole golf tournament . Backyard tournaments and weekly games (trivia nights or pop-up themes) are also common at mini-golf bars. Regular programming probably included relaxed walk-in tee times on weekends and evenings (similar to Oaks Park’s schedule ), with occasional private bookings for larger groups or fundraisers. Admission was by the round (no ongoing series of “performances” per se), and any podcasts or sports simulators (like Birdie Pub’s golf simulators ) would have been part of the fun atmosphere as well.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets were sold per round (not per seat). Typically, Portland mini golf rounds cost around $10–$15. For example, Oaks Park’s Chipper’s Woods course charges $11 for players aged 6 and above , with kids under 6 free with an adult. Tickets often include a putter, ball and scorecard . The venue likely recommended booking in advance to secure tee times: for instance, Oaks Park’s site advises guests to “purchase online in advance to guarantee admission and to reserve a tee time” . There may have been on-site sales or a box office, but for popular slots it pays to plan ahead (especially on busy weekend evenings). Group rates or event packages may have been available; similar venues like Birdie Time Pub host group events with catering and package deals . Always check the venue’s official site or call ahead for current ticket info, on-sale dates, age/senior discounts or birthday specials.
Seating and Layout
Hollywood Mini Golf’s layout was an open putt-putt course rather than a theatre-style venue, so there weren’t “seats” in the traditional sense. Players stand at each hole and carry their putters through the course, so spectators can stand alongside or sit on occasional benches if provided. The holes are likely arranged in a loop to minimize walking distance, perhaps with themed obstacles or blacklight effects (in the style of Glowing Greens’ indoor designer course ). There probably wasn’t a raised stage or VIP section – all players have equal access to holes. Like Birdie Time’s indoor course , Hollywood Mini Golf was likely a single-level layout (no stadium seating), so every spot on the floor is an equally good view. The venue’s signage or layout maps would have shown hole numbers; acoustics would be modest (no rock-concert sound system needed) though background music or reggae tunes might be on speakers (Glowing Greens, by analogy, blasts reggae ). As with most mini golf, it’s best to avoid high-traffic bottlenecks and give right-of-way to groups finishing each hole.
Getting There and Parking
The venue was in Northeast Portland’s Hollywood neighborhood, at 1510 NE 37th Ave (near Sandy Blvd) . If driving, you can plug that address into GPS. Street parking may be limited, but Spokane/37th and Hancock have meters or short-term spots (check local signs). Larger surface lots (for the flow shops at that address) might offer some paid spaces. Public transit options include TriMet light rail and buses. The Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX Station on the Red/Blue/Green lines is just a few blocks east, at Sandy Blvd and 42nd – roughly a ten-minute walk west to 37th. From that station, bus line 77 (Sandy Blvd) or 8 (Jackson Park) could get you closer to 37th Ave as well . In fact, the Hollywood Transit Center (at 42nd) is served by MAX and buses #75 and #77 , so you can transfer there. AMTRAK and Bolt Bus stop downtown; from there the MAX Blue/Red line goes east. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) can drop off on NE 37th Ave. The Oregon Convention Center is not far to the west, and if you’re staying in Lloyd Center area or Alberta district, it’s a short drive. Overall, plan on a short walk from Sandy Blvd or NE 42nd rather than expecting a dedicated parking lot. (Always verify latest transit schedules and any parking signs in Hollywood. TriMet’s site notes that Hollywood is also now served by lines 43, 54, 56 as well as 8 and 9 since bus #66 was discontinued .)
Inside the Venue
Expect a casual, fun atmosphere. On entering, you’d likely buy or show your tickets, then join the course. Security is minimal (no heavy bag checks typical for mini golf). The decor was probably neon-themed; if indoor, it may have been dimly lit with spotlights on holes. The Birdie Time Pub (a similar mini golf bar) advertises an “inviting atmosphere” with both indoor golf and an outdoor patio – Hollywood Mini Golf likely had an all-indoor setup. There was probably a pro shop or counter selling snacks and drinks – indeed, a haunted mini-golf listing advises, “While you wait, grab a frosty beverage and a snack” . If beer or wine were served, it would be at a modest bar area; Birdie Time lists a full bar with Pacific NW craft beers and cocktails . All-ages family fun (Birdie welcomes kids and even pets until 7 PM ) suggests Hollywood Mini Golf was kid-friendly too. Restrooms would be on-site, and perhaps a coat-check during peak season (check with staff). Merchandise (like logo tees or souvenir bags) might be available, as is common at themed courses. Since the venue is permanently closed now , there’s no current connectivity info – but if it were open, cell phone service and casual Wi-Fi (or QR-scorecards) would likely be available as at other Portland mini-golf spots. Note: most indoor mini-golf in PDX is non-smoking (inside), so assume the same unless outdoor patio space was provided.
Nearby Amenities
The Hollywood District is packed with interesting places just a few blocks from the course. For pre- or post-game dining and drinks, you’ll find dozen of spots on Sandy Blvd. A few highly-rated examples: Shaku Bar (3448 NE Sandy) is a Pacific Rim-inspired bar/restaurant with tacos and noodle salads . Piccone’s Corner (3434 NE Sandy) is a meat-centric deli/butcher shop serving hearty sandwiches and a full bar . Xiao Ye (3832 NE Sandy) offers inventive Asian-American comfort food in a sleek new space . For casual bites, try domestic eats at Trencher’s sandwiches or over-the-top burgers at Radio Room (just a few blocks away). Doe Donuts (4128 NE Sandy) is a local favorite for vegan doughnuts (good for a sweet treat) . If you want a drink, the Aprovecho Brewery/Solera Winery (3728 NE Sandy) is very near, plus bars like the Moon & Sixpence (an English pub) or Acadia House (craft brewpub). Coffee lovers can hit Bitter Rose Coffee Bar (NE 42nd & Hancock) or St. Honore bakery (daytime pastries).
As for lodging, downtown Portland is about 3–4 miles away. Notable nearby hotels include the DoubleTree by Hilton on NE 9th (roughly 3 km west) , and the funky Jupiter Hotel (SE Portland, near Burnside) which reviewers often mention . The Lloyd Center area (TownePlace Suites, Residence Inn, Embassy Suites) is a quick MAX ride west. If you fly in, the Hollywood/42nd MAX station serves the red line airport train. Late-night rideshares back from these bars are plentiful. In short, Hollywood’s central spot means you’re within a 5–15 minute walk of many restaurants, bars, and even yoga studios or shops, making it easy to plan an early dinner or late-night snack around your mini golf game.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hollywood Mini Golf stood out by bringing something new to Portland’s Hollywood neighborhood. Rather than the usual movie marathons at the nearby Hollywood Theatre, this offered active entertainment – Portland-style putt-putt. It combined play space with the district’s local character: for example, its block houses skateboard and outdoor gear shops, so the sporty vibe carried over. The Hollywood District itself has a quirky history (originally called “Hollyrood” and renamed after its grand theatre in 1926 ), and a mini golf course fit right in with the area’s playful spirit.
Although the course is now closed , its legacy is that it catered to family nights and group outings in Hollywood. Nearby entertainment like weekly trivia or pub events (the Shaku Bar even hosts patio music and trivia ) show that locals love gathering places; Hollywood Mini Golf was one such gathering point for gamers and families. Its presence also inspired local creativity: Portland’s community events include things like Halloween golf (noted in a city event guide for $20 haunted rounds ) and even beer-themed mini-golf tournaments . In that sense, the venue was part of Portland’s beloved mini-golf culture – bright lights, unique themes, and good-times-only, as summed up by local guests’ “good vibes” reviews . Both artists (e.g. touring bands having album parties during mini-golf nights) and casual families appreciated the novelty of an indoor course in an otherwise retail-and-cinema neighborhood. Its Blender of mid-century fun with modern twist was exactly what draws crowds to places like Birdie Time Pub elsewhere in town.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Hollywood Mini Golf was an indoor venue on a single level, so it should have been wheelchair accessible. (Most public Portland mini golf courses adhere to ADA guidelines, but it’s always best to call for details.) For strollers or wheelchairs, expect flat floor surfaces and a wide entryway. Restrooms should be accessible too. What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring socks and comfortable shoes (some courses require socks). No special gear is needed beyond your enthusiasm – clubs and balls are provided (Oaks Park mini golf notes “Admission includes a ball, club, and scorecard” ). You may bring a phone or camera along each hole – photography is usually fine. Outside food and drink policies vary; since some courses allow outside kids’ snacks, but restaurants on site usually have a café. (For example, the haunted mini golf ad encouraged purchasing snacks onsite .) If it were open, Hollywood Mini Golf likely allowed family picnics in common areas, but drink an alcohol from them only in designated areas. Bowties or costumes? Themed events like Halloween encourage costumes , but daily attire is casual – no dress code. Avoid large backpacks on the course; keep belongings in designated racks if offered. Avoiding Mistakes: Book popular times early – summer evenings can sell out (Oaks Park required reservations during busy June–Sept hours ). Check hours before visiting; Portland mini golf is often seasonal (Oaks Park closes in mid-September ). Arrive 15–20 minutes ahead to practice on the first hole. Try to walk, if you can, as nearby traffic on Sandy/Ainsworth can be heavy. For families, note that some mini-golf promotions gear to older kids – one haunted event advertises fun for “families with older kids” . If you have little ones, find out if younger kids play free (Oaks gives free play for ages 5 and under with an adult ). Event Etiquette: During group play, take turns and be courteous on each hole. If there’s a bar section (as at Birdie Time ), see if it’s age-restricted later in evening. If bringing a group, ask about reserved space in advance – Birdie has bookable “event packages” and even catering . Weather Note: Since it was indoors, rain or shine doesn’t halt play; but if it had any outdoor patio, putt only in dry weather. Always carry a light jacket – venues can be cool-lit when heavily air-conditioned. Health & Safety: Check for any posted rules (for example, many venues ask that players only use own putter/balls for hygiene). If open, pay attention to age warnings on challenging holes. For haunted or late-night events, know that lights may be dim. Stay with your party, especially kids. Other Tips: Don’t forget to look around the Hollywood district after your game: the neat little shops, record stores, and even a vintage candy shop can make for a fun outing. And won’t hurt to check if Hollywood Theatre or Pickles Comedy Club (nearby) has an early or late show – you could combine mini golf with a movie or comedy night. Finally, for any closing night specials or leftover tickets, follow local social media – Portlanders sometimes organize one-off “minigolf flash mobs” or fundraisers. (In the end, keep it fun – after all, even Birdie Time encourages bringing “furry friends” on leash so everyone can join the putt-putt party!)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices at Hollywood Mini Golf?
Ticket costs are typically around $10–$15 per player. (For comparison, Oaks Park’s Chipper’s Woods mini golf charges $11 for ages 6 and up , with younger children free.) Hollywood Mini Golf likely had similar pricing. You usually pay per round at the venue, and admission often includes a putter and ball. Always check the venue’s site or box office for exact current rates.
How do I buy tickets and reserve a tee time?
Tickets can usually be purchased at the venue or online. It’s wise to reserve ahead for busy dates. For example, Oaks Park’s mini golf states “purchase online in advance to guarantee admission and to reserve a tee time” . If Hollywood Mini Golf were open, they would likely have an online booking system or phone line. Check the official site for schedules; last-minute walk-ins are often accepted on weekdays but can sell out on weekends.
Are children allowed and do they get discounts?
Yes, mini golf is family-friendly. Most venues welcome all ages (for instance, Birdie Time Pub advertises “all ages welcome” before 7 PM ). Young children often play free; Oaks Park’s course lets kids 5 and under play free with an adult . There usually aren’t age restrictions, but special events (like Halloween mini golf) might have height or age guidelines (the haunted event mentions “older kids, teens, and brave adults” ). Always confirm any policy for children and discounts before arrival.
How many holes does the course have and what is the layout?
The Hollywood Mini Golf course layout was likely between 9 and 13 holes, typical for indoor courses. (For instance, Birdie Time’s indoor course has 9 holes , whereas Glowing Greens downtown has 13 holes .) The holes would have been set in a loop, letting groups circulate easily. As a compact indoor venue, it would be on one floor without fixed seating – just enough space for players around each green. Each hole likely had its own theme or obstacle (as Portland’s courses often do), though there’s no formal seating or “best view” – just follow the play order.
Where exactly is Hollywood Mini Golf located and how do I get there?
Hollywood Mini Golf was at 1510 NE 37th Ave, Portland, OR 97232 , in the Hollywood District (near Sandy Blvd). By car, set your GPS to that address. By public transit, use the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX light rail station (Blue/Red lines) or bus 77/75 on Sandy and walk a few blocks. Portland’s official directions note the Hollywood Transit Center (at NE 42nd & Sandy) is served by MAX and buses #75, #77 just two blocks from the Hollywood Theatre – so from there it’s a short stroll to 37th Ave. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs at NE 37th & Hancock (just south of Sandy) also work. On-street parking is usually limited in Hollywood, so earlier arrival for free spots is advised.
What are the parking and transit options near the venue?
Street parking is available on NE 37th Ave and adjacent streets, often metered. Some nearby businesses share small customer lots. (Downtown or airport parks are too far.) For transit, the Hollywood/NE 42nd MAX station is closest, with frequent Red/Blue/Green line service and bus #75 or #77. . TriMet buses on Sandy (77, 8, 9) also serve the area. Plan for a short walk (5–10 minutes) from bus stops or the Max. As always, check TriMet schedules and consider traffic for evening or weekend travel.
What should I expect inside the venue?
Inside, expect a relaxed mini-golf arcade vibe. There may have been neon/blacklight decor and background music. A counter (“pro shop”) probably sold snacks and drinks – indeed, an event ad even suggests grabbing a snack from the pro shop while waiting . If there was a bar area, you might buy sodas or beers (Birdie Time Pub’s indoor course advertises a full craft beer/cocktail bar ). You’d carry your putter from hole to hole, so wear casual clothes and flat shoes. Restrooms should be available on-site. Bring nothing beyond essentials (small bag or just carry your phone); large backpacks or outside alcohol might not be allowed unless stored. The desired atmosphere is family-friendly fun – Birdie Time even allows dogs on leash during early hours , so Hollywood Mini Golf would similarly be pet-friendly if space permitted.
Are there restaurants and other amenities nearby?
Yes. The Hollywood District has many eateries within a few blocks. For example, Shaku Bar (3448 NE Sandy Blvd) serves Pacific-Rim bar fare , Piccone’s Corner (3434 NE Sandy) is a deli/bookstore with sandwiches and charcuterie , and Xiao Ye (3832 NE Sandy) offers creative Asian-American noodle and rice dishes . There are also breweries (Solera/Aprovecho) and coffee shops (Bitter Rose). After golfing, you could grab a drink at a nearby pub or dessert at Doe Donuts. Hotels are a short drive away – Downtown Portland or the Lloyd Center area have major hotels. The Trip.com guide lists the DoubleTree by Hilton (3 km away) and Jupiter Hotel as nearby lodging options . Public buses and MAX light rail stations are also steps away, as noted in the Hollywood Theatre’s directions .
What made Hollywood Mini Golf unique?
Hollywood Mini Golf added a playful twist to Portland’s historic Hollywood District. Unlike nearby movie theatres, it provided active entertainment indoors. It captured the district’s upbeat vibe – reviews of similar venues boast of “good vibes…awesome times” . It also joined Portland’s reputation for themed mini golf (Glowing Greens’s 3-D blacklight course , or Birdie Time’s pub-course hybrid ). Locals appreciated having family activities in Hollywood; for example, Portland’s official guide promoted an October haunted golf night for families . While it’s now closed, during its run it was beloved as a fun hangout spot that reflected Portland’s eclectic mini-golf culture.
Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Mini golf courses are generally wheelchair accessible since they’re flat and indoors. The Hollywood Mini Golf layout was likely a single level with ramps or smooth transitions between holes. Restrooms would also be ADA compliant. If you have specific concerns, call ahead (many Portland rec venues are ADA-friendly). No detailed official statement is available, but based on similar courses and the city’s access guidelines, you should be able to navigate the course in a chair.
Can I host a private party or event here?
Yes – many mini golf courses offer party packages. For instance, Oaks Park advertises “exclusive use” course rentals for birthdays or company events . The Hollywood venue likely took reservations for groups, with catering options. Birdie Time Pub specifically offers event packages and catering for parties and team events . To book a private event, contact the venue well in advance; they would create a group package with reserved time slots (often in off-hours).
Is outside food or drink allowed?
Policies vary. Velvet mini-golf bars often encourage buying on-site (e.g. Birdie Pub has catering and a food truck ). The mention in a haunted golf event suggests buying snacks at the venue . Typically you can bring water or small snacks for kids, but outside meals or alcohol might not be allowed. Check rules at the box office. In general, plan to eat before or after your game – Hollywood has many restaurants nearby if the course itself doesn’t have a full kitchen. One safe tip: don’t count on grilling your own; enjoy the venue’s concessions or step out to Sandy Blvd eats.
Are there any age or height requirements?
Mini golf is generally open to all ages. As noted earlier, children under 6 often play free . There is usually no upper age limit – adults and seniors can play freely. Height requirements might only come into play on specialized events (the haunted golf listing suggests older kids up, but that was an event-specific note ). Standard play courses don’t have height gates – even a toddler can swing a putter (with help). So yes, any age or height is welcome – just expect to share space with players of all sizes!
What should I wear?
Dress very casually – it’s an activity, not a club. Comfortable clothes and flat, closed-toe shoes are best for putting. High heels or slippery soles could make walking between holes tricky. Layers are wise since indoor air-conditioning can be cool. There’s no formal dress code, but many players wear team or novelty shirts for fun. You might even wear a Halloween costume for an October event, since a haunted golf run encouraged costumes ! Avoid anything that could snag on obstacles. And definitely don’t forget socks – if boats or slides are part of the decor, bare feet might not be allowed.
Is Hollywood Mini Golf currently open?
As of the latest information, the Hollywood Mini Golf location is listed as permanently closed . That means it is no longer operating. When planning a visit, be aware that you can’t play there now. However, Portland still offers other mini golf options (Downtown’s Glowing Greens, NE’s Wonderwood, etc.), and the neighborhood’s other attractions remain open. Always check up-to-date local directories to find live venues.
