Can Can Wonderland: a place for everyone

Mini golf course in Midway offers a wondrous array of activities and courses to suit all ages.

Many of the holes have a mechanical aspect: “State Fair” has a fully functional miniature ferris wheel, complete with neon lights.

Jasmine Lee, Senior Photographer

Many of the holes have a mechanical aspect: “State Fair” has a fully functional miniature ferris wheel, complete with neon lights.

Karissa Thomson, Reporter

Containing two bars, an 18-hole mini-golf course, two stages that host a variety of performances and a restaurant, Can Can Wonderland received the “Best of the Cities Minnesota Monthly” award in 2016. After being designed and created by local artists, Can Can Wonderland claims to be “the first arts-based public benefit corporation in Minnesota,” focusing on being an “economic engine for the arts.”

While the artistic touch can be seen immediately as you enter, the mini-golf course is where the creativity is most noticed. Golfing patron Mari Koplin describes Can Can’s aesthetics as “visually stimulating.”

Each hole on the course is unique, and often incorporates the culture of the Twin Cities and Midway area. One of the most eye-catching holes was the State Fair themed hole, which has a large lighted ferris wheel near the green. Other holes included twisted and morphed wire sculptures, giant cartoon characters and a statue of a tornado.

Only open Thursdays through Sundays, this venue especially pops during the evening hours, turning  21+ after 9:00 p.m. However, Can Can Wonderland’s unique environment is able to incorporate a family-friendly atmosphere while still allowing adult patrons to enjoy the nightlife. Celebrating her 30th birthday in the restaurant space, patron Becca Holland commented on Can Can’s ability to make all guests feel welcome.

“It’s great. I am celebrating my birthday tonight, and my kid’s birthday next week here. It’s nice to be able to do both,” Holland said. Spencer Paul, another patron, suggested how Can Can Wonderland is able to draw so many people in during opening hours.

“It’s a fun, festive atmosphere with a pressure free environment,” Paul said. “No matter who you are, you can find somewhere in here to have fun and be comfortable.”

If you’re looking for somewhere to bring the kids you’re babysitting, take them to the mini-golf course for an affordable $9.00 ages 11 and under, $12.00 for anyone 12 and older.

If you’re interested in interacting with each hole that was created by professional artists, bring your friends. If you want to grab a drink with a colleague and watch a variety performance, go network and build work relationships in an interesting yet fun environment. If you like to have fun, go visit Can Can Wonderland. There is something for everyone, and you won’t be disappointed.

 

Jasmine Lee, Senior Photographer
Can Can Wonderland has a variety of classic arcade games in addition to the 18-hole golf course, including pinball hockey.
Jasmine Lee, Senior Photographer
Each hole is designed by a different artist; Cecilia Schiller is the mastermind behind hole #6, “Catchin’ a Wave.”
Jasmine Lee, Senior Photographer
A golfer sets up to put down the Wizard of Oz themed hole #16, “You Gotta Have Heart.”
Jasmine Lee, Senior Photographer
A minigolfer takes on hole #11. “No that’s not my trick, Michael, that’s an illusion!”