Magic Carpet Golf is a popular miniature golf course located in Carnelian Bay, California. It has been providing family fun and entertainment since it opened its doors in 1979. The course features a unique and whimsical theme, adorned with colorful statues and obstacles. As the name suggests, a magic carpet motif can be seen throughout the course, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. It is designed to appeal to people of all ages, from children to adults, making it a favorite spot for family outings or a fun date night. Magic Carpet Golf offers not only a great game of mini-golf but also other attractions and activities.
Son Tony is a high school baseball coach and brings the team to South Lake Tahoe to play during the summer. The team camped out at the golf course over the 4th of July weekend.
Karen and her husband Gino Franceschi live most of the year above the Magic Carpet Golf on the corner of Lodi and 50, then head off the hill from time to time to their other home in Forestville, CA. Karen and her husband Gino Franceschi live most of the year above the Magic Carpet Golf on the corner of Lodi and 50, then head off the hill from time to time to their other home in Forestville, CA.
Magic Carpet Golf offers not only a great game of mini-golf but also other attractions and activities. They have batting cages for those who enjoy swinging a bat, a bumper boat pond where visitors can cool off and have some splashy fun, and an arcade filled with classic and modern games. These additional amenities enhance the overall experience and provide options for everyone's interests.
Family business in same South Lake Tahoe location for 43 years
What would you do if you had a family miniature golf business you wanted to pass onto your four children? Build three more, of course!
In 1972, Bill and Mary Koplin built Magic Carpet Golf on land they purchased from Marjorie Springmeyer adjacent to what was once the South Lake Tahoe amusement park. Marjorie had overheard Bill and his real estate agent talking in a local restaurant about Bill's plans for building the course. "I have a piece of property I can sell you," Marjorie told them.
At the time there was a gas station on the corner of Lodi and Highway 50, so the minigolf course was built on the land in-between the amusement park and the station. Years later the Koplins bought the land where the gas station was and expanded their parking area and home above the course.
Bill was no stranger to the business. He had built 13 miniature golf courses with uncles and brothers in the California cities of Alameda, Lake Berryessa, Bakersfield (an indoor course), Pinole and Konocti Harbor, then in Key West, Biloxi and Galveston. Family members ran all of those except for the ones in Konoti and Bakersfield.
In 1948 he built a popular course along the Russian River where he raised his family, one that daughter Karen has very fond memories of.
"Those were great times," said Karen. "All the kids hung out there."
In 1970, Bill and Mary bought property at Carnelian Bay and build the first Lake Tahoe area Magic Carpet Golf. This course was for his son Bill, Jr. who still operates the course.
Then came 1972 and South Lake Tahoe. Daughter Peggy was given this course to run.
In 1974 they added a Reno location for daughter Jeanne, who, you guessed it, still runs the place.
Daughter Karen operated the Russian River property until 1992 when she switched locations with Peggy and moved to South Lake Tahoe. Cal Trans bought the Russian River course in 1994 due to a freeway planned for the property.
Karen and her husband Gino Franceschi live most of the year above the Magic Carpet Golf on the corner of Lodi and 50, then head off the hill from time to time to their other home in Forestville, CA.
Their children, all now adults, have grown up at Magic Carpet. Though none of them live in South Lake Tahoe year round, they all come to town for the summer along with their own children to help run the family business.
Karen and Gino have four children, Tony, Nicki, Karey and Gina. They are also grandparents to ten. At any time you'll be sure to find one of them working the front counter at Magic Carpet. They also hire local teens to help out in the summer since the course is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The family truly does enjoy family time, no matter how many are in town.
Son Tony is a high school baseball coach and brings the team to South Lake Tahoe to play during the summer. The team camped out at the golf course over the 4th of July weekend.
"It's not a bad place to be," said Karen. She still plays the Magic Carpet course a couple of times a week as well as hitting the "real" golf courses. When asked what her best score has been at Magic Carpet, she said a 27 on the 18 hole course. You have to be awfully good to get a hold in one on each hole Karen said, adding that she hasn't seen that done before on her course.
Her grandson Nicholas who is a senior in high school wants to make "real" golf a career and currently works at a course.
Karen enjoys the generations of families she's seen go through Magic Carpet. "We're now seeing third and fourth generations here," she said. "They look forward to the tradition when they're in Lake Tahoe."
This year the family business has been the seen of many family reunions as well, many with 20-30 people playing together.
"I'm a people person," said Karen. "I enjoy watching people have fun." Her dad Bill was also a people person and very family oriented.
By trade he was a welder and trained a wartime generation of female welders made famous by the cultural icon Rosie the Riveter.
Magic Carpet is open Spring through Fall, and with weather permitting, winter too. Last year they were open some days in December and February.
All locals get a discount, so make sure to mention you're from South Lake Tahoe the next time you play either one of the two 19-hole courses, or the 28-hole course. They are located at 2455 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
"It's not a bad place to be," said Karen. She still plays the Magic Carpet course a couple of times a week as well as hitting the "real" golf courses. When asked what her best score has been at Magic Carpet, she said a 27 on the 18 hole course. You have to be awfully good to get a hold in one on each hole Karen said, adding that she hasn't seen that done before on her course.
One of the standout features of Magic Carpet Golf is its beautiful setting. Located in Carnelian Bay, the course offers picturesque views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. These scenic surroundings make a round of mini-golf even more enjoyable and unforgettable. Magic Carpet Golf has a reputation for its friendly staff and excellent customer service. The employees are always ready to assist visitors and ensure they have a fantastic time at the course. The attention to detail and commitment to providing a top-notch experience are what sets this establishment apart. Over the years, Magic Carpet Golf has become a beloved establishment within the community. Locals and tourists alike flock to Carnelian Bay to experience the magic and whimsy of this unique mini-golf course. It has become a tradition for many families who return year after year to create new memories. In conclusion, Magic Carpet Golf in Carnelian Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of family entertainment and a magical experience. With its themed course, additional attractions, stunning views, and excellent customer service, it is no wonder that this miniature golf course is a favorite among both locals and visitors to the area..
Reviews for "Putting Paradise: Why Magic Carpet Golf in Carnelian Bay is a Must-Visit"
- Alex - 1 star
I had high hopes for Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay, but I was sorely disappointed. The course was poorly maintained, with broken and faded obstacles. The overall atmosphere was lackluster and unexciting. The staff was also unfriendly and unhelpful. I definitely will not be returning to this mini golf course.
- Sarah - 2 stars
Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay was just average at best. The course itself was decent, but it didn't have any unique or challenging holes that stood out. The price was also quite high for what we got. The staff seemed disinterested and unenthusiastic. Overall, I wouldn't necessarily recommend this mini golf place unless you have no other options.
- John - 2 stars
The overall experience at Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay fell short of my expectations. The course was run-down and in need of repairs. The obstacles were old and faded, which made it less enjoyable. The staff seemed disinterested and unengaged. The price was also quite steep for what it offered. I would suggest looking for other mini golf options in the area.