This Connecticut Family Attraction Is the Perfect Dupe for a Swiss Village

Many years ago, I spent a handful of days in the beautiful countryside of Switzerland, and to this day, it remains one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. I completely fell in love with the majestic mountains, the delicious cheese, and the endless sight of cows (yes, I have a weird obsession with cows). While I would love to make a return one day, it looks like this European trip may be far into my future travels. Luckily, I have found a little bit of Switzerland right in Connecticut, and I am setting my sights on a day of Swiss family fun at the Matterhorn Mini Golf course in Canton.

While I am certainly not a golfing pro (or even a mini-golf pro), I do enjoy spending a warm summer night playing a friendly (ok, maybe slightly competitive) game with my family. My favorite mini-golf courses revolve around a theme. In the past, I’ve putted with pirates and golfed under glow lights, but up until now, I’ve never hit a shot over a map of Switzerland.

Matterhorn Mini Golf has been a favorite local adventure area for the past eleven years. Located in Canton, just a half hour from Hartford, this popular family-owned adventure center has won multiple Connecticut and New England “Best of” awards. The course is open from spring to fall.

Before setting out to putt, you will have to decide which golf package you would like to purchase. You can opt for a single game, an all-day pass, or the “Total Yodel.” This popular package includes a round of golf and a delicious ice cream. I’m going with this one.

Now it’s time to hit the course! The Matterhorn course is made up of 18 holes, each with a different Swiss-inspired landmark such as an alpine garden, an atom blaster, and a pro-tennis court. There is even a putting green in the shape of Switzerland! As you move from one landmark to another, you will be enchanted by the sounds of Alpine music (paired with some yodeling) and the sights of several life-size hand-painted goats. You may even learn a little about Swiss culture from the “fun facts” signs along the way. Be sure to read about Switzerland’s dairy industry at hole number 12.

My favorite part of mini-golf is always the last hole because, on most courses, this means a chance to win a prize. At Matterhorn, this final ball return takes the form of a large cuckoo clock. Get the ball in the clock, and the prize is yours.

After a competitive round of golf, a well-deserved ice cream is a must-have. The Swiss Swirl at Matterhorn comes in eight flavors, including Bubble Gum and Salted Caramel. Be sure to stop inside at the Swiss-themed cutout and take some fun photos.

Do you have a favorite themed mini-golf course? Please tell us all about it on this nomination form. You can find more information about this Swiss-themed adventure center by visiting the Matterhorn Mini Golf website and the Matterhorn Mini Golf Facebook page. For more local Connecticut family adventures, be sure to take this family-friendly road trip. 

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.