As big fans of Turtle Back Zoo, we were pleased to receive a special invitation to try out the newest mini golf course in our area from Essex County. Safari Minigolf was a fun outing for all my kids, ages 6, 4 and 2.

I’ve learned that with my young kids, score-keeping was out of the question after the first hole. Overall it was picturesque, fun and there were nice spots of shades in between with boxes to sit down if you had to wait your turn during the course. One part of the course is up a level and you can view the rest of the course and see your golf ball go down a steep incline to the lower level. My daughter loved that part and sitting on the crocodile!

Here is the current information (as of 6/2011) from Essex County on the hours/pricing:

Located on the corner of Cherry Lane and Northfield Ave in West Orange, NJ, the Essex County Safari MiniGolf is an award winning 19 hole course. Experience a taste of Africa as you putt around a life size gorilla, hippo and many other African creatures.

Hours 10am – 9pm Mon. – Sat. , 10am – 8pm Sundays.*
Admission: $7 adults $5 children
Food is available.
For Mini Golf birthday parties or for more information please call 862-520-5024.
* Hours are subject to change

Having kids, we are thrilled that this location is so convenient as it is right next to the zoo so we can continue our day if we wanted to, and a boathouse/restaurant is currently being constructed adjacent to the mini golf course. Kudos to Essex County for making great places to keep families playing outdoors!

UPDATE:  In this same complex is a great addition the ziplines for those under 250lbs, but over 54″, perfect for the older kids.  Check out their facebook page for more details and what’s going on!

For more pics, check out our gallery below: