Topgolf is a golf entertainment venue, not traditional mini golf
Topgolf is a large indoor and outdoor facility where you hit real golf balls at targets on a field, rather than putt through obstacles like you would at a mini golf course. The balls are tracked by computer technology that measures distance, accuracy, and spin. You play from a bay — a private or semi-private hitting area — and the system scores your shots automatically. Most Topgolf locations also serve food and drinks, and many have bars and games beyond golf.
If you came from the mini golf section expecting a putting game, Topgolf is a different activity altogether. It sits somewhere between a driving range and an entertainment venue. You do not need golf experience to play, and the games are designed for groups, dates, or solo practice rather than competitive tournament golf.
Key Takeaways
- Topgolf charges by the hour for a bay rental, and the cost varies by location, time of day, and day of the week — typically $30 to $150 per hour depending on these factors.
- You can bring up to six people per bay in most locations, and the cost is split among everyone in the bay, not per person.
- The venue provides clubs and golf balls; you do not need to bring your own equipment.
- Food, drinks, and arcade games cost extra and are not included in the bay rental fee.
- Topgolf locations are not everywhere — you can search their website to find the nearest venue to you.
How bay rental pricing works
Topgolf charges for bay time by the hour. The price depends on which location you visit, what day of the week it is, and what time you book. Peak hours — typically evenings and weekends — cost more than off-peak times like weekday afternoons. A bay during a Friday night might cost $100 to $150 per hour, while the same bay on a Tuesday afternoon might be $30 to $50 per hour.
You pay for the bay as a whole, not per person. If six people share one bay for one hour, you split one hourly fee among the six of you. If you book a bay for two hours, you pay for two hours of bay time. Most locations let you book online through their website or app, and you can see the exact price for your chosen date, time, and location before you confirm.
Some Topgolf locations offer membership plans or packages that reduce the per-hour cost if you visit regularly. These vary by location, so check the specific venue's website to see what they offer.
What is included in a bay rental
Your bay rental includes access to the hitting bay, golf clubs, and golf balls. You do not need to bring clubs or balls yourself. The bay has a screen or display that shows your shots in real time and keeps score for whatever game you are playing. Most bays seat four to six people comfortably, though you can fit more if you are standing and taking turns.
The games built into the system range from straightforward target games — hit the closest to a target — to more complex games that mimic golf courses or create competitive scenarios. You can play solo or in teams. The system tracks your performance and displays it on the screen so everyone can see the leaderboard.
Clubs and balls are provided, but the quality and selection vary by location. If you have a strong preference for a particular club or want to use your own equipment, call ahead to ask whether the venue allows it.
Food, drinks, and other costs
Topgolf operates like a restaurant or bar as much as a golf venue. You can order food and drinks from your bay, and these are billed separately from your bay rental. Prices are typically similar to what you would pay at a casual restaurant or sports bar — appetizers, entrees, and drinks all cost extra. Some locations have full bars with alcoholic beverages.
Many Topgolf venues also have arcade games, cornhole, and other entertainment options outside the bays. These typically cost extra as well, though some may be included depending on the location and what you book.
If you are planning a visit, budget for both the bay rental and food and drinks separately. The bay rental alone does not cover meals or entertainment beyond the golf games.
How to find a Topgolf location and book a bay
Topgolf has locations across the United States, but not in every city. Visit topgolf.com and use their location finder to search by zip code or city name. The website shows you the address, hours, and a link to book a bay at each location.
You can book online through the Topgolf website or mobile app. Select your location, date, time, and number of hours. The system will show you available bays and the price for that time slot. You pay when you book, and you will receive a confirmation with your bay assignment and arrival instructions. Most locations ask you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
If you do not see availability online, call the location directly — some bays may be held for walk-ins or the online system may not show all options. Pricing and availability change frequently, so check the website for your specific date rather than assuming a price you saw before.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation. Staff will direct you to your bay and explain how to use the system if you are new. The bay has a screen, a hitting area with a mat, and seating. You select your game from the menu on the screen, enter player names, and start playing.
The system automatically tracks every shot you hit. You can play multiple games in one hour, or stick with one game for the whole time. If you want to switch games, you can do that from the screen. Staff are available if you have questions or if the system is not working.
You can order food and drinks from your bay using a menu or app, and it will be delivered to you. When your hour is up, you check out at the front desk and pay for any food or drinks you ordered. Your bay rental fee was already charged when you booked.
Topgolf versus traditional mini golf
Topgolf and mini golf are different experiences. Mini golf is a putting game on a small outdoor or indoor course with obstacles and creative holes. Topgolf is a full-swing golf game with computer scoring and entertainment games. Mini golf is usually cheaper per person and faster — a round typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Topgolf bays are rented by the hour and are better for groups or people who want to spend more time in one place.
If you want a quick, inexpensive outing with a lot of people, mini golf may be the better choice. If you want to spend an evening with a smaller group, eat food, and play multiple games in one location, Topgolf is designed for that. Neither requires golf experience, and both are entertainment venues rather than places to practice serious golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to golf to play Topgolf?
No. Topgolf games are designed for all skill levels, from people who have never held a club to experienced golfers. The system does not judge your swing or require a certain level of ability. You can play for fun and entertainment without any golf background.
Can I bring my own golf clubs?
Most Topgolf locations provide clubs as part of your bay rental, and many do not allow outside clubs for safety and liability reasons. Call your location ahead of time if you want to bring your own equipment — some venues may allow it, but it is not standard.
How many people can play in one bay?
Most bays accommodate four to six people comfortably, though the exact number depends on the location and bay size. You pay one hourly fee for the entire bay regardless of how many people are in it, so bringing more people does not increase the cost.
What if I book a bay and cannot make it?
Cancellation policies vary by location. Check your confirmation email or call the venue to ask about their cancellation and refund policy. Most venues allow cancellations up to a certain time before your reservation.
Is Topgolf more expensive than mini golf?
Yes, typically. A Topgolf bay rental is usually $30 to $150 per hour depending on time and location, while mini golf is often $10 to $20 per person for a round. However, Topgolf is designed for groups and longer visits, so the cost per person can be lower if you split a bay among several people.