Topgolf Logistics: What to Expect Your First Time
If you have read our article on Why Topgolf is the Perfect Place to Start Your Golf Journey, you already know that we believe it is the absolute best environment for a beginner to swing a club without the intense pressure of a real golf course.
However, if you have never been to a Topgolf venue before, the logistics of how it actually works can still cause some anxiety. Do you need to bring your own equipment? Will you be sweating to death in the summer heat?
To ease your mind before you book a bay, here are the direct answers to the most common logistical questions about Topgolf.
Q: Does Topgolf have air conditioning or heating?
A: Yes, every single hitting bay at Topgolf is climate-controlled!
While the bays are technically “outdoors” because they open up to the giant driving range net, there are powerful climate control systems mounted directly above your seating area. In the blazing heat of summer, massive fans blow cool, conditioned air directly onto your group. In the freezing winter, heavy-duty infrared heaters blast warmth down on you.
You can play comfortably at Topgolf year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
Q: Do I need to bring my own golf clubs to Topgolf?
A: Absolutely not. Topgolf provides a full set of golf clubs in every single bay for free.
When you walk into your bay, you will see a rack containing drivers, irons, and wedges for both men and women. If you are bringing kids, simply ask your server and they will bring out a set of junior clubs for them to use.
They even have left-handed clubs available, as well as a specially designed club called “The Sure Thing.” Designed in collaboration with Callaway, The Sure Thing features a massive clubhead and shorter shaft specifically built to help beginners get the ball in the air easily and avoid whiffing!
(Note: If you are an experienced golfer who prefers your own clubs, you are more than welcome to bring your personal golf bag inside).
Q: Do I have to pay for the golf balls I hit?
A: No, you do not pay per golf ball. You pay for the time you rent the bay.
Whether you hit 20 balls in an hour or rapid-fire 200 balls in an hour, the price is exactly the same. You wave your club over a sensor, and a shiny new microchipped golf ball rolls out of the dispenser automatically. You can hit as many as you want during your reserved time slot.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
A: It is highly recommended, especially on weekends or evenings.
Topgolf is incredibly popular, and wait times on a Friday or Saturday night can regularly exceed two to three hours for walk-ins. We highly recommend downloading the official Topgolf App before you go. The app makes it incredibly easy to book reservations, and when you arrive, it will send push notifications directly to your phone letting you know exactly when your bay is ready and what bay number to walk to.
TIP
Bonus App Tip: Once you are in your bay, you can actually use the Topgolf app as a remote control to switch channels on the TV mounted in your bay!
If you do walk in without a reservation and find a long wait, there is a massive bar, restaurant, and lounge area where you can eat and drink while you wait.
IMPORTANT
Las Vegas Fun Fact: If you happen to be visiting the flagship Topgolf location in Las Vegas, they actually have incredible swimming pools (called the “Hideaway Pool”) on the 3rd and 4th floors! The best part? It is completely free to enter and hang out at the pool, even if you don’t book a golf bay!
Summary
Topgolf removes almost all the intimidating barriers of traditional golf. You don’t need equipment, you don’t need to worry about the weather, and you have an unlimited supply of golf balls. Just show up, grab a drink, and start swinging!
Tip: If you end up loving your first experience and plan to return, be sure to read our guide on How to Save Money at Topgolf: 3 Insider Secrets to keep your future visits budget-friendly!