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Miniature Golf: Winter Summerland vs. Fantasia Gardens at Walt Disney World

Photo Credit: Disney

Many guests may not even realize that there are two different themed miniature golf locations located on Walt Disney World property.  The locations are very different, but each have their perks.  There are various things to consider when trying to determine which one you want to visit (or just visit them both!).  Here is our comparison of Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens:

6. There are 2 different courses at each location.

If you are looking for multiple course options, the two locations tie in this category.  Each of the locations offers two different 18-hole courses for guests to play through.  It is hard to pick which course you want to play, giving you even more reason to try both!  Each of the courses are very different and have their own unique challenges and features.

Photo Credit: Disney

5. The theme is different for each location.

Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens each have their own unique theme.  The story behind Winter Summerland is that Santa was flying back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve and found snow in Florida.  He ended up building a vacation spot, called Winter Summerland.  The two courses are the summer course which has a beachy vibe but is decorated for Christmas, and then the winter course, which is a holiday winter wonderland.  The Fantasia Gardens location is themed after the Disney film, Fantasia.  There are a variety of scenes throughout the course inspired by the film. You will have to decide which theme excites you the most, but I personally prefer Winter Summerland!

4. Know the costs to play.

The cost to play is on a per Guest basis and it is the same at each of the locations.  For adults (ages 10+) the cost will be $14.  For children (ages 3 to 9) the cost will be $12.  There is no charge for kiddos that are under 3.  There is a discount on a second round of golf if Guests want to play both courses.  Be sure to ask about discounts for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, etc.

3. Where to find them on property and how to get there.

Fantasia Gardens happens to be located right next to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels.  If Guests aren’t driving themselves, they can head over to Disney’s Boardwalk area and surrounding resorts and then make the walkover.  Depending on what Resort you end up at, it is a little bit of a stroll.  Winter Summerland is located right next to Blizzard Beach.  If guests visit when Blizzard Beach is open, then it is an easy walk over after taking a bus to Blizzard Beach.  If Blizzard Beach isn’t open, the only real way to reach it without a haul is to drive or use a taxi or Minnie Van service.

Photo Credit: Disney

2. Looking for shade while playing?

Winter Summerland wins out in this category.  No matter which course you go to, you won’t be able to fully escape the summer sun, but the Winter Summerland course seems to have better shade cover than Fantasia Gardens.  If you are visiting at night, this won’t matter, but the Christmas lights at Winter Summerland are also so much fun!

1. Skilled golfing options or just for fun golfing options?

If you are looking for a course that will challenge your skills, then you will want to consider The Fairways at Fantasia Gardens.  This course is like a real golf course in a miniature version.  There is also a more family-friendly course there, too.  Both of the courses at Winter Summerland are more in the fun category for golfers looking for cute scenes and fun for the family.

Photo Credit: Disney

About Christy Caby

I am a diehard Disney fanatic! I fell in love with all things Disney from an early age and that only increased once I first visited Walt Disney World! It led me to complete a yearlong Disney College Program working at merchandise locations within Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Disney-MGM Studios at that time) and I worked for Disney Parks & Resorts Technology in Project/Program Management. Now I get to write about Disney and help others plan their magical vacations! Disney holds a special place in the hearts of my entire family as my husband proposed there, we honeymooned there, took trips while pregnant with each of my boys and have visited with them many, many times from 8 weeks old through now. One of my favorite memories from each trip is always the look on my kids’ faces the first time they see the castle. I’d love to help you plan your magical vacation! Request a free quote at http://magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/christy-caby/ or look for me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/christy.caby. Have a magical day!