Puttshack Brings High-Tech Mini Golf to Old Orchard in Skokie

Puttshack, the cutting-edge mini golf and entertainment venue, recently launched its newest location at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie. The 30,000-square-foot space marks the final piece of the puzzle for the redevelopment of the former Lord & Taylor site, joining Zara, Arhaus, and Pottery Barn.

Technology Meets Mini Golf

Unlike traditional mini golf, Puttshack combines the fun of putt-putt with high-tech flair. Each of its four nine-hole courses features proprietary motion sensor technology that tracks every stroke and triggers interactive elements on each hole.

Exclusive to only two locations—Skokie and suburban Dallas—Puttshack’s “challenge holes” bring virtual reality into the mix, offering a one-of-a-kind gameplay experience for local guests.

Designed for Fun and Flexibility

“We have technology that nobody else has,” said Carlos Navarrete, Puttshack’s Director of Operations. “And beyond that, it’s the level of service, the type of cuisine, and the drinks we offer that make it different.”

Puttshack Skokie

The Skokie location is larger than Puttshack Oak Brook, allowing for expanded features like the VR challenge holes and a private event room and bar directly connected to the course.

Puttshack Origin Story

Puttshack was founded in 2018 by the creators of Topgolf, Steve and Dave Jolliffe, alongside Adam Breeden, the mind behind social entertainment concepts like Flight Club and All Star Lanes. The company was built on the idea of combining miniature golf with cutting-edge technology and upscale food and beverage offerings to create a more immersive and modern experience. Using patented Trackaball™ technology, Puttshack reinvented mini golf by introducing automatic scoring, interactive games at each hole, and a seamless player experience without the need for scorecards or pencils.

The first Puttshack location opened in London, quickly gaining popularity for its vibrant atmosphere and tech-driven gameplay. The concept expanded to the United States in 2021 with a flagship venue in Atlanta, followed by additional openings in cities like Chicago, Miami, Boston, and Dallas. With backing from investment partners including Promethean Investments and Chicago-based real estate firm Levy Family Partners, Puttshack has grown into a leader in the “competitive socializing” space, blending entertainment, dining, and nightlife into one cohesive experience.

Part of a Larger Transformation

The arrival of Puttshack is part of a two-phase redevelopment plan for Westfield Old Orchard. According to General Manager Maegan Akers, the next phase will add approximately 600 new apartments on the former Bloomingdale’s site and the current spaces occupied by Forever 21 and Barnes & Noble, both of which will relocate to the former Zara space.

“We’re very excited to finally have the last piece of the Lord & Taylor development,” Akers said. “It leads us into our next phase, which includes residential growth.”

Looking Ahead

Demolition and construction for the residential phase are expected to begin in early 2026, with utility and design planning already underway. The vision includes a community green space that will connect the living spaces to the retail center, encouraging a live-work-play lifestyle similar to other Puttshack-adjacent developments near Nashville and St. Louis.

“For us, it’s about creating a whole city where you can get everything you need in one space,” said Akers.

A New Hot Spot for Skokie

Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, a group activity, or a memorable date night, Puttshack Skokie brings something new to the North Shore. With high-tech gameplay, elevated cuisine, and a lively atmosphere, it’s set to become a standout destination this summer and beyond.