A Guide to Playing and Enjoying Topgolf

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Quick Answer

• Hit microchipped golf balls from a comfy bay towards targets on a huge outfield.
• Your shots are tracked for accuracy and distance, racking up points in different game modes.
• It’s a social scene with grub, drinks, and games for every skill level.

Who This Is For

• Groups of friends hunting for a lively, active hangout.
• Families wanting a fun experience that works for everyone, from seasoned golfers to total newbies.
• Anyone looking to casually dip their toes into golf without the stuffy country club vibe.

What to Check First at Topgolf

Before you even think about swinging, get a lay of the land. It’ll save you headaches.

• Bay Availability: This is key. See if you need to book a bay ahead of time, especially on weekends or during prime evening hours. Walk-ins are possible, but the wait can be longer than your average golf cart ride. I learned that the hard way once, ended up waiting an hour.
• Menu: Scope out the food and drink options. Topgolf has stepped up its game way beyond just peanuts and beer. You can get full meals, appetizers, and a decent bar selection. Knowing what’s available helps you plan your munchies.
• Game Modes: Get a feel for the different games. They range from super beginner-friendly to more challenging, so you can pick what suits your crew. Don’t just assume it’s one boring game.
• Pricing Structure: Understand how you’re being charged. It’s typically by the bay, per hour, not per person. There’s also usually a one-time fee per player to get your microchipped balls activated for scoring. Check the Topgolf Guide: What To Do And Expect At This Fun Venue for more details on pricing structures.

What Do You Do at Topgolf?

This is where the fun kicks in. It’s pretty straightforward once you’re there, and honestly, it’s way more about having a good time than sinking birdies.

1. Arrive and Check In. Action: Head to the check-in desk, usually right inside the entrance. What to look for: Your bay number if you booked ahead, or your spot on the waitlist if you’re walking in. Make sure you get a confirmation or a waitlist number so you know where you stand. Mistake: Showing up late for your reservation and potentially losing your spot. Most places give you a grace period, but don’t push it. I’ve seen people get bumped because they were too chill.

2. Get Your Gear. Action: Once you’re assigned a bay, an attendant will usually swing by to get you set up. What to look for: A set of clubs suitable for your group – they’ve got everything from short irons to drivers, and importantly, they have clubs for both right-handed and left-handed players. They’ll also bring you a bucket of those cool microchipped balls. Mistake: Trying to use unmarked balls or assuming your own old range balls will work; they won’t register on the system. Stick to the Topgolf balls provided.

3. Choose Your Game. Action: Use the touchscreen console located in your bay. What to look for: The game that sounds most appealing to your group. There’s the classic Topgolf game where you aim for targets to score points, but also fun variations like Angry Birds or Jewel Jam. Mistake: Accidentally starting a game you didn’t intend to. They’re all pretty fun, but some are better for learning the ropes than others. Take a minute to read the descriptions.

4. Tee Up and Swing. Action: Place one of the microchipped balls on the included tee (they have adjustable tees for different heights) and take your best shot towards the outfield. What to look for: Your ball soaring towards the targets and the score popping up on the screen, showing your accuracy and distance. Mistake: Getting too serious and forgetting to enjoy the process. It’s about the good times and the laughs, not necessarily a hole-in-one every time. Relax and have fun with it.

5. Repeat and Compete (or Cooperate). Action: Keep hitting balls and playing through the game. Each player usually gets a turn to hit, and the game progresses through a set number of shots. What to look for: Improving your score, seeing how close you can get to the bullseye, or just having a laugh with your crew as you try to outdo each other. Mistake: Not rotating who tees off or plays if you have a larger group; everyone should get a swing and feel involved. Make sure everyone gets their fair share of hits.

6. Order Food and Drinks. Action: Flag down your server or use the in-bay console to place your order. What to look for: Delicious grub and refreshing drinks delivered right to your bay, so you don’t miss any of the action. They’ve got everything from appetizers like loaded fries and wings to burgers, salads, and even desserts. Mistake: Waiting until you’re starving or parched to order. Service can get busy, especially during peak hours, so it’s smart to order a round of drinks or some snacks early on.

7. Explore Other Games. Action: Once you finish your current game, don’t just pack it in. Pick another game from the console. What to look for: Different challenges and scoring mechanics that might suit your group’s evolving mood or skill level. Mistake: Sticking to just one game mode and missing out on the variety Topgolf offers. Each game has its own unique way of scoring and its own set of challenges, which keeps things fresh and exciting.

8. Enjoy the Atmosphere. Action: Take a moment to soak it all in. What to look for: The lively buzz of other bays, the music, the general good vibes. Mistake: Getting so focused on your own game that you forget it’s a social environment. Chat with your friends, cheer each other on, and just enjoy being out and about.

Common Mistakes at Topgolf

• Mistake: Not booking a bay in advance.
• Why it matters: You could face a seriously long wait, especially during peak times like evenings and weekends. This can put a damper on your plans and eat up valuable fun time.
• Fix: Book online well before you plan to go. It’s a lifesaver and guarantees you a spot without the stress of wondering how long the line is.
• Mistake: Thinking you need to be a scratch golfer.
• Why it matters: This can lead to frustration if you’re expecting pro-level performance right away. Topgolf is designed for everyone, and putting too much pressure on yourself will detract from the fun.
• Fix: Embrace the casual vibe. Focus on the social aspect and the fun of hitting the ball. Try out the beginner games first, and remember, it’s okay to have a less-than-perfect swing.
• Mistake: Sticking to just one game.
• Why it matters: You’ll miss out on the diverse challenges and scoring opportunities that make Topgolf unique. Each game offers a different way to play and score, adding to the replayability.
• Fix: Ask your attendant for recommendations or just cycle through the different game modes available. There’s something for everyone, from accuracy challenges to speed tests.
• Mistake: Forgetting about the food and drinks.
• Why it matters: You might miss out on some tasty treats or get hungry/thirsty mid-game, forcing you to pause the fun.
• Fix: Check the menu when you first arrive and order when you feel like it, not when you’re already running on empty. Staying fueled keeps the energy high.
• Mistake: Not utilizing the in-bay technology.
• Why it matters: The console shows your scores, replays shots, and provides game instructions. Ignoring it means you’re missing out on key features.
• Fix: Take a moment to explore the console’s functions. Understand how to check your stats, replay your best (or worst) shots, and navigate between games.
• Mistake: Overlooking the different bay sizes and options.
• Why it matters: If you have a larger group, trying to cram into a small bay can be uncomfortable. Topgolf offers various bay configurations.
• Fix: When booking, check the capacity of the bays and select one that comfortably fits your group size. If you have a big party, consider booking adjacent bays.

FAQ

• How do I book a bay at Topgolf?

You can book a bay directly on the Topgolf website or through their mobile app. It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times like Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays, to avoid long wait times. You can usually see available time slots and choose the one that works best for your group.

• What are the different game options available at Topgolf?

Topgolf offers a variety of engaging games designed for different skill levels and interests. The signature game is simply called ‘Topgolf,’ where you score points by hitting microchipped balls into various targets on the outfield. Other popular games include ‘Jewel Jam,’ a rhythm-based game; ‘Angry Birds,’ which uses the familiar characters for challenges; and ‘Top Pressure,’ which focuses on accuracy. They also have games tailored for beginners and kids.

• Do I need to bring my own golf clubs to Topgolf?

No, you absolutely do not need to bring your own golf clubs. Topgolf provides a complimentary set of clubs in each bay, catering to both right-handed and left-handed players. They offer a range of clubs, from short irons to drivers, suitable for all types of shots. Of course, if you’re a serious golfer and prefer using your own gamer clubs, you’re welcome to bring them, but it’s entirely optional.

• Can kids play at Topgolf, and are there any age restrictions?

Absolutely, Topgolf is a fantastic family-friendly venue, and kids of all ages are welcome and encouraged to play. They have junior clubs available and games that are easy for younger players to understand and enjoy. Many Topgolf locations also host junior golf programs and events. Just ensure that children are supervised by an adult while in the bay and on the premises.

• What is the cost structure at Topgolf? How is it calculated?

The primary cost at Topgolf is the bay rental, which is charged by the hour, not per person. The hourly rate can vary depending on the day of the week and the time of day – peak hours (evenings and weekends) are generally more expensive than off-peak times (weekdays during the day). In addition to the bay rental, each player typically pays a one-time fee to become a member for the year. This membership activates the microchipped balls for scoring and tracking your shots. Food and beverage purchases are separate and additional.

• How many people can typically fit in a Topgolf bay, and what if we have a larger group?

A standard Topgolf bay is designed to comfortably accommodate up to six players. This allows everyone in a smaller group to have ample space to swing and enjoy the experience without feeling crowded. If you have a larger group, say eight or ten people, the best approach is to book two adjacent bays. This way, your group can stay close together, and you can easily interact between the bays while still having plenty of hitting space. For very large events, Topgolf locations often have options for private spaces or can help coordinate multiple bays.

• What kind of food and drinks can I expect at Topgolf?

Topgolf has a surprisingly extensive food and beverage menu that goes far beyond typical sports bar fare. You can expect a range of appetizers like wings, nachos, and sliders, as well as full meals such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and even some more substantial entrees. They also offer desserts. The drink menu includes a wide selection of beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options like sodas and specialty drinks. It’s a great place to grab a full meal or just some snacks and drinks while you play.

Sources:

• Topgolf Guide: What To Do And Expect At This Fun Venue