Planning a group outing looks very different from how it did a few years ago. People still want to celebrate, connect, and have fun, but they want options. Some groups prefer to drop in casually, while others want a space that feels reserved just for them. That’s why more guests are taking time to choose the right group event venue instead of booking the first place they find.
Mini golf has stepped into this space in a big way. It’s social, easy to play, and works for many types of gatherings. At places like Par 3, guests often ask the same question before booking: Should we do open play, or should we book a private event?
The answer depends on the group, the goal, and how the experience should feel.
Understanding Open Play: Flexible, Casual, and Social
Open play is the most relaxed way to enjoy a group event venue. Guests arrive during regular hours, join the course with other players, and enjoy the space at their own pace. There’s no need for a formal schedule, and smaller groups often like this option because it feels natural and low-pressure.
Open play works well when:
- The group is small or medium-sized
- Guests are arriving at different times
- The event is more about hanging out than hosting
This option is popular for casual birthdays, friend meetups, and after-work plans. People can grab food, enjoy drinks, play a few holes, and leave when they’re ready. For many guests, this flexibility is exactly what they want from a group event venue.
Partial Buyouts: A Balance Between Private and Public
Some groups want their own space but don’t need the entire venue. That’s where partial buyouts come in. A partial buyout gives a group reserved access to certain areas or tee times while the venue remains open to other guests.
This option is often chosen by:
- Mid-sized groups
- Corporate teams with a set headcount
- Hosts who want structure without full exclusivity
At Par 3, partial buyouts allow groups to enjoy a more organized experience while still feeling connected to the energy of the venue. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants the benefits of a group event venue without committing to a full buyout.
Full Venue Buyouts: Total Control and Full Focus
A full buyout means the entire space is reserved for one group. This option offers the most control and the most privacy. Everything, from the flow of the event to the timing, can be planned around the group’s needs.
Full buyouts are ideal for:
- Large corporate events
- Brand activations
- Major celebrations and milestone parties
When a group chooses a full buyout, they’re usually focused on creating a specific experience. They want guests to feel comfortable, included, and fully engaged. For these groups, choosing the right group event venue is less about flexibility and more about impact.
Pricing Psychology: Why Booking Styles Matter
How people book a group event venue often comes down to perceived value. Open play feels affordable and easy. Partial buyouts feel efficient and organized. Full buyouts feel premium and intentional.
Many hosts choose based on questions like:
- Do we want a hosted experience or a casual one?
- Is the event about connection or celebration?
- Will guests stay for a short time or the full event?
Understanding these differences helps hosts choose the option that makes the most sense for their budget and their guests.
Group Size Changes Everything
Group size is one of the biggest factors when choosing between open play and private booking. Smaller groups usually enjoy the freedom of open play. Medium-sized groups often prefer partial buyouts for structure. Larger groups almost always benefit from a full buyout to avoid crowding and confusion.
A well-designed group event venue should support all three options. That flexibility allows hosts to scale their event without changing locations or compromising the experience.
Choosing What Works Best for Your Event
There’s no single “right” way to book a mini golf event. The best choice depends on how you want the event to feel. Casual and flexible? Open play works well. Organized but social? A partial buyout makes sense. Fully branded or private? A full buyout is the way to go.
At Par 3, we’ve designed our space to work as a true group event venue, not just a place to play mini golf. Our layout, food options, and booking formats are built to support different types of gatherings without forcing groups into a one-size-fits-all experience.
Ready to Book?
If you’re planning an outing and deciding between open play or a private booking, think about your group’s size, timing, and goals. The right group event venue should make planning easier, not harder.
Whether you’re looking to book open play for a relaxed get-together or want to request a private event for something more structured, we’re here to help you choose the option that fits your group best.
