Golf is not only about four-hour rounds and handicap competitions. A whole world of golf exists purely for fun: lively ranges with targets, music and food; simulator bars where you can play famous-style courses with friends on a rainy evening; short courses where you can play nine holes in an hour; and family-friendly games that introduce children to the joy of hitting a ball.
These formats have helped bring millions of new people into golf. They are also great fun for experienced golfers. This guide explores the many ways to enjoy golf as entertainment — and how they can lead to a lifelong love of the game.
Why golf entertainment is booming
- It is accessible. No experience, equipment or dress code is needed at most venues.
- It is social. Groups of friends, families and colleagues can play together.
- It is quick. An hour or two is enough.
- It works in any weather. Covered bays and indoor simulators are open year-round.
- It is a gateway. Many people discover they love hitting golf balls and go on to take lessons and play full courses.
Entertainment ranges
Entertainment ranges have transformed the traditional driving range into a night out. Typical features include:
- Covered, heated bays with seating, food and drinks.
- Targets and games — ball-tracking technology scores your shots as you aim at targets on the range.
- Music and lighting creating a social atmosphere.
- Club rental and staff to help beginners.
- Events such as birthday parties, corporate outings and competitions.
Tips for an entertainment range visit
- Book a bay in advance for evenings and weekends.
- Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes.
- Ask staff for a quick tip if you are new — many venues offer free basic coaching.
- Take turns safely — only one person in the hitting area at a time.
- Try the games that reward accuracy rather than distance; they level the playing field for beginners.
Simulator venues
Simulator venues and bars use launch monitors and screens to recreate golf indoors.
- Play virtual courses, many inspired by famous layouts around the world.
- Practise with detailed shot data such as carry distance, ball speed and spin.
- Enjoy games and challenges such as closest to the pin and long drive.
- Socialise with food and drink in a relaxed setting.
Benefits for golfers
- Winter practice when courses are closed or unpleasant.
- Learning your distances with accurate data.
- Playing a full round in less time than on a real course.
For a home setup, see golf training aids, simulators and tech.
Short courses: par-3 and pitch-and-putt
Short courses are one of the best ways to enjoy golf — and to improve.
Par-3 courses
Every hole is a par 3, often between 80 and 200 yards. A nine-hole par-3 course can take an hour or less.
Pitch-and-putt courses
Even shorter holes, often under 70 yards, played with a wedge and putter.
Why short courses are great
- Perfect for beginners, who can reach greens and enjoy scoring.
- Ideal for families and children.
- Excellent short-game practice for experienced golfers.
- Fast and affordable.
- Less intimidating than a full course.
| Format | Typical hole length | Clubs needed | Time for 9 holes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pitch-and-putt | Under 70 yards | Wedge and putter | 45–60 minutes |
| Par-3 course | 80–200 yards | Irons, wedges, putter | 60–90 minutes |
| Nine-hole course | Mixed | Half set | 1.5–2 hours |
For more on short-game skills that shine on these courses, read how to chip in golf and wedge play.
Mini golf (crazy golf)
Mini golf uses only a putter on short, often whimsical holes with obstacles, slopes and themed decorations.
- Fun for every age — from toddlers to grandparents.
- No experience needed.
- A great way to introduce putting skills in a playful setting.
Many golfers find that mini golf genuinely improves their feel for speed and break on real greens.
Footgolf and other hybrid games
- Footgolf combines football and golf: players kick a football into large holes on adapted golf courses. It is popular with groups and introduces people to golf courses.
- Disc golf uses flying discs thrown at baskets on a course.
- Speed golf combines running and golf, with scores based on strokes and time.
- Target golf in parks and back gardens with soft balls and nets.
These variations help people experience golf courses and golf culture in new ways.
Golf for families
Golf entertainment is ideal for families:
- Start with mini golf or an entertainment range for young children.
- Move on to pitch-and-putt as skills develop.
- Play family scrambles on par-3 courses. See golf formats and games explained.
- Set up garden golf with soft balls and targets.
- Keep it short and fun — stop while everyone is still enjoying it.
Read getting kids into golf and the junior golf equipment guide for more.
Golf entertainment for groups and events
Entertainment ranges and simulator venues are excellent for:
- Birthday parties and celebrations.
- Team-building and corporate events, especially with many non-golfers. See how to organise a golf day.
- Stag and hen parties.
- Charity fundraisers with competitions.
Book early, ask about packages including food and coaching, and choose games that suit mixed abilities.
From entertainment to the golf course
Many people who start with golf entertainment go on to play the full game. If you have caught the bug:
- Take a few lessons to learn the fundamentals. See golf lessons.
- Practise on short courses to build confidence.
- Learn basic etiquette and rules. See golf etiquette.
- Buy a modest set of clubs when ready. See buying golf clubs on a budget.
- Play nine holes at a quiet time.
Our complete beginner's guide maps the whole journey.
How experienced golfers can use entertainment venues
- Practise with purpose using target games for distance control.
- Learn exact distances on simulators.
- Work on wedges at short courses.
- Keep your game sharp in winter.
- Introduce non-golfing friends and family to the game.
Etiquette and safety at golf entertainment venues
- Only one person in the hitting area at a time.
- Never walk onto the range or into the simulator screen area.
- Keep clubs on the rack when not hitting.
- Watch children closely and follow venue age rules.
- Drink responsibly — alcohol and swinging clubs do not mix well.
Planning a group visit
Entertainment venues are perfect for groups, but a little planning makes the visit smoother:
- Book bays or simulators in advance, especially on evenings and weekends.
- Check group sizes — most bays suit four to six people.
- Ask about packages that include food, drinks and coaching.
- Arrange a short lesson for beginners at the start.
- Plan games and prizes — closest to the target, longest drive, team competitions.
- Agree a budget and how costs will be shared.
Games to play at an entertainment range
- Target challenge: score points for hitting different targets, with higher points for harder ones.
- Around the world: hit one ball to each target in sequence; first to complete the circuit wins.
- Closest to the pin: everyone hits to the same target; nearest wins the round.
- Accuracy over distance: points only for shots landing in a narrow zone.
- Team relay: teams alternate shots, adding their points together.
These games keep everyone involved and reward accuracy over power, which levels the playing field between experienced golfers and beginners.
Costs and value
Entertainment venues typically charge per bay per hour, often with prices varying by time of day. Short courses charge a green fee per round, usually far lower than a full course. Mini golf and footgolf usually charge per player. Look for off-peak rates, family tickets and memberships if you visit often.
Accessibility
Golf entertainment is often highly accessible: level bays, seated waiting areas and adaptive equipment at some venues allow people of different abilities to take part. Ask venues about access needs when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own clubs at a golf entertainment venue?
No. Most venues provide clubs free or for a small fee. Regular golfers often bring a few of their own.
Is a simulator good practice for the real course?
Yes, especially for learning distances and practising full swings. Mats are more forgiving than grass, so combine simulator practice with outdoor practice.
What is the best way for a complete beginner to try golf?
An entertainment range or a pitch-and-putt course is ideal: relaxed, affordable and fun, with no pressure.
Are golf entertainment venues suitable for children?
Most are very family-friendly, especially during the day, and many offer junior clubs and child-sized equipment. Some venues have age restrictions in the evening or in areas serving alcohol, so check the policy before you go. Mini golf and pitch-and-putt courses are the easiest starting points for young children.
Can I improve my golf at an entertainment range?
Yes, if you practise with purpose. Target games are excellent for distance control and accuracy, and ball-tracking technology tells you exactly how far each shot carried. Combine those sessions with short-game practice on real grass to round out your game. Our driving range practice plan works just as well in an entertainment bay.
What should I wear to a simulator or entertainment venue?
Comfortable, casual clothing and flat, clean shoes are fine at most venues. Some indoor simulators prefer non-marking footwear. Golf shoes with spikes are usually unnecessary indoors.
How long does a round on a simulator take?
A group of four can usually play nine holes in about an hour and eighteen holes in two to three hours, depending on settings and how much time is spent chatting between shots.
The bottom line
Golf entertainment — from lively ranges and simulator bars to par-3 courses, mini golf and footgolf — makes the game accessible, social and fun for everyone. It is a brilliant way to try golf, introduce friends and family, practise in any weather and enjoy the game without pressure. And for many people, it is the first step towards a lifelong love of golf. Fancy something different? Try disc golf.
For more ways to play differently, read unusual golf experiences.