Zao Island — Local services in Valparaiso

What a disaster of a mini golf experience.

My husband and I have never been here before. We get out of our car and had no clue of where to go for mini golf. There are literally no signs out front. So we walked into the door for the pizza place and we were immediately greeted by smoke. There needs to be a better ventilation system in there for food because it was gross. We walked all through the arcade area looking for anyone that worked there. Still no signs for mini golf. We finally found a random counter that said to go to the Attractions Hut outside for Attractions. Well where is this hut at because again, no signs anywhere. We finally end up in the back of the property and found all of the outdoor things and the Attractions hut. The guy working was beyond unfriendly. I need to watch my credit card for the amount of times he swiped and tapped my card to get it to load. He then just glanced over at the clubs and balls and went back to whatever he was doing. We tried to see which club was best for us but have no clue what to look for. The scorecard is just random like they bought them off of Amazon. It has no branding or par numbers on them making them pretty useless besides tallying up your personal scores. We then made our way over the bridge to the red course. The course was so old and uncared for. There were grass clippings, rocks, leaves, and dirt all over the courses interfering with game play. Most of the holes are not numbered and it takes you on the most insane path going back and forth. You can tell they tried to cram 2 courses in a space that would have been an amazing 1 course set up. The water was dirty with trash floating in it. The newer holes were created horribly with the hole being right near the sidewalk and no path from one hole to another without walking in the dirt or on an uneven ramp. The scenes were all in desperate need for remodeling. When we finished, we tried handing our clubs back to the same guy and he just motioned to put them back where we got them. Its literally a foot away from him. Just rude. This place might have been decent years ago, but we won't be coming back for the conditions it's...

Zao Island in Valparaiso, IN is nothing short of a spectacular oasis for fun and relaxation. From the moment you step onto this vibrant island of entertainment, you're transported to a world of excitement and adventure.

The first thing that strikes you is the impeccable attention to detail in every aspect of this attraction. The lush, tropical-themed mini-golf courses are a visual delight, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and water features. It's like playing through a paradise, and it's suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic family destination.

But Zao Island offers so much more than mini-golf. The arcade is a treasure trove of games and activities, perfect for kids and the young at heart. The sound of laughter and the glow of flashing lights create an atmosphere of pure joy. And if you're a fan of go-karting, their tracks are exhilarating and impeccably maintained.

Now, let's talk about the food. The on-site restaurant serves up a delicious array of options. From mouthwatering pizzas to delectable burgers, there's something to satisfy every craving. The dining area is clean and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring you have a great experience.

Don't forget the Tiki Hut bar, where you can sip on a refreshing drink and unwind after all the activities. It's a fantastic place to relax and soak in the tropical vibes.

In conclusion, Zao Island is a gem in Valparaiso, IN. It's a place where you can create lasting memories, filled with laughter, fun, and fantastic food. Whether you're planning a family outing, a date night, or just looking to have a blast, Zao Island is an absolute must-visit. It's a testament to the magic that can happen when creativity, hospitality, and a passion for entertainment...

Zao Island, a unique spot nestled along the shores of Porter County. As soon as you arrive on this quiet stretch along the Porter/Lake county line, you can feel the midwestern charm of the region. Off in the distance stands the stacks of Indiana's famous steel mills, a reminder of the industry that shaped the communities here for generations.

But Zao Island offers a peaceful respite from the world, a place to take a deep breath and relax. Only accessible by a short footbridge, it feels like you've escaped to your own private oasis. Spanish moss drips from the trees, gently swaying in the breeze coming off the water. Butterflies flit about, chasing each other through the tall grass and wildflowers. It's the perfect spot for picnics, conversations that seem to go on for hours. Sunlight dapples the ground, and little rushes and cattails lean towards their reflections in the shallows.

Venture down the winding paths that cut through the heart of the island. You never know what you might encounter - perhaps a family of deer nibbling on lush spring growth, or bright kingfishers zooming low along the banks. Bring a book and find a shady nook under an old oak, listening to shorebirds calling as they wade through the emergent vegetation. It's easy to while away an entire afternoon on Zao Island, soothed by nature's gentle rhythms. Before you know it, the sun will be setting behind those steel mills in a blazing ball of orange fire. Another day slips gently into memory on this cherished slice of wilderness along Lake...