The Future of the Fairway

Golf has long been a sport rooted in tradition.

But we’re seeing the game of golf usher in some new traditions with a wave of fun, fast, and fresh experiences, teeing up a different kind of game that not only welcomes new players to the sport but which also caters to busy golfers who don’t have the time to hit the links for an entire afternoon.

The rise and popularity of places like Topgolf and businesses like Glow Vibe Golf, which offers glow-in-the-dark night golf experiences, brought new innovations and a redefinition of how golfers can experience the game. And this evolution is attracting a whole new generation of players.

Topgolf didn’t just change how we play—it changed who plays. So, what can traditional courses learn from its success?

We’ve rounded up a few fresh ideas golf courses can use to bring in new players without alienating traditional members and shake up the game—in the best way.

Gamify the Green 

One thing Topgolf does successfully is integrate tech to make golf fun and entertaining for all levels. They have tech to track stats on your swing and trajectory, as well as the speed and accuracy of your shot.

Enhancing Traditional Courses

Traditional courses can do this, too. Adding this type of tech, including wearable tech options and targets on the driving range, increases the challenge, the fun, and, of course, gives real-time feedback to help golfers improve their game.

Even on the main course, let players compete in mini competitions during a regular round of golf. For instance, see which player has the longest drive or who can get closest to the pin with a live leaderboard that players can track on their phones.

Speed It Up

Schedules get busy quickly, and many don’t feel they have the time to play 18 holes. Introducing speedier and shorter course options allows golfers to squeeze in a quick game and feel like they can fit golf into their schedule regularly.

9-Hole Rounds

Add more 9-hole course options and introduce fun events throughout the week like a “9-Hole Happy Hour Round” for a quick game after work.

Courses can also offer fun experiences like Speed Golf Leagues, where the goal is to finish the course as fast as possible with a timer on each hole.

Making the Game More Accessible and Sociable 

Topgolf does this well. They’re all about the social aspect—bringing friends and family together for a fun experience that encompasses more than just golf but includes music, food, and games.

Traditional courses can run with a few of these ideas, providing welcoming spaces like patio bars, fire pits, and family-friendly areas. Especially for those with family responsibilities, if the entire family can come to the course and engage in entertaining activities for each member, they’re more likely to be open to coming for a round of golf.

Themed Nights

Hosting themed nights is another great way to draw in new and younger players. Consider a “Putting Challenge” event or a “Sip & Swing” event that offers lessons to new players paired with fun drinks—an Arnold Palmer cocktail perhaps?

Have one evening a week be Glow-in-Dark-Golf Night or host a Parent/Kid Scramble Night with a fun and friendly competition with parents against kids.

Being Respectful to Traditional Players

While integrating some of these ideas, be mindful of your historic membership. You may want to hold off on a Tiki Bar Tee-Off when your traditional members typically play.

Striking that balance between welcoming a new generation of players with innovative play options and traditional players is essential. But, offering both taps into an underserved market of casual, social golfers that can boost revenue and revive excitement around the game.

Golf certainly doesn’t have to lose its rich traditions to evolve. It just needs to make a little room on the green to welcome in a new wave of play.