Key Takeaways:
- Little T’s Mini Golf & More has been named the 2025 Entertainment Venue of the Year by the Mountain Home Observer
- The venue offers affordable family fun, community fundraising, and inclusive employment opportunities
- The business was inspired by a coffee shop in North Carolina that employs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Little T’s features a zoo-themed mini-golf course, ice cream shop, and restaurant, all of which are ADA-compliant
- The venue hosts various events and fundraisers, including an annual pumpkin painting contest and a mini-golf tournament to benefit foster children and families
Introduction to Little T’s Mini Golf & More
The story of Little T’s Mini Golf & More is one of inspiration, perseverance, and community involvement. What started as a dream inspired by a coffee shop in North Carolina has become one of the Twin Lakes area’s favorite family destinations. The Mountain Home Observer has named Little T’s the 2025 Entertainment Venue of the Year, recognizing its commitment to affordable family fun, community fundraising, and inclusive employment. The venue’s owners, Scott and Brandi Tavegia, purchased the former All About Fun mini-golf course on Highway 5 in February 2022, after discovering it during an anniversary vacation the previous year.
The Inspiration Behind Little T’s
The Tavegias’ inspiration for Little T’s came from an unlikely source – a coffee shop in North Carolina called Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. The coffee shop pairs workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities alongside non-disabled employees, providing a model for inclusive employment that stuck with the Tavegias. As parents of a child with Down Syndrome, the Tavegias recognized the importance of providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be included in everyday life and make an impact. They wanted to create a similar environment at Little T’s, where individuals with disabilities could work and thrive alongside non-disabled employees.
The Journey to Opening Little T’s
Getting Little T’s up and running was not without its challenges. The Tavegias faced roadblocks with financing, but with the help of Kyle Davidson at Arkansas State University-Mountain Home, they were able to tailor their business plan to fit the community. By August 2021, they had moved to Mountain Home and were waiting for the sale of the property to finalize. The property itself needed attention, with the three-acre site featuring an 18-hole zoo-themed course that required significant maintenance. Despite the challenges, the Tavegias were determined to bring their vision to life.
The Expansion of Little T’s
Since opening, Little T’s has expanded to include Little Dipper’s Ice Cream, offering 16 flavors with 22 different toppings, and Say Cheese, a restaurant featuring 21 grilled cheese variations, quesadillas, and flatbreads. The expansion addressed a gap in their schedule, as mini-golf traffic typically slowed during dinner hours. The Tavegias wanted to provide a fun and affordable dining experience for families, with options that fit within their brand of unique and fun entertainment. The expansion has been a success, with families enjoying the variety of food options and activities available.
Community Involvement and Fundraising
Little T’s has become a consistent supporter of local causes, hosting events such as an annual pumpkin painting contest and a "Lighting the Way to Foster Care" mini-golf tournament benefiting The Call in Baxter and Fulton Counties. The 2022 event raised nearly $4,000, and the Tavegias are committed to continuing their support for local charities. The venue’s community involvement is an important part of its mission, and the Tavegias believe that everyone can play a part in making a difference in the lives of children who need homes.
Conclusion
Little T’s Mini Golf & More is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, hard work, and a commitment to community involvement. The venue’s unique approach to entertainment and employment has made it a beloved destination for families in the Twin Lakes area. With its ADA-compliant facilities, affordable prices, and variety of activities, Little T’s is an ideal spot for families to spend time together and create lasting memories. As the 2025 Entertainment Venue of the Year, Little T’s is sure to continue to thrive and make a positive impact on the community for years to come.