Fantastic Casual Golfing Options in Central Florida — Topgolf and Drive Shack
Central Florida is one of the family entertainment capitals of the world, so, there’s no lack of options for fun! While the theme parks are often in the spotlight, there’s plenty more to do – and we’ve got the perfect activity if you’re looking for a day or night away from the crowds! (I guess the title has probably already given it away…)
Casual golfing has really gained traction over the past decade and has been made especially popular by Topgolf (which recently merged into golf equipment company Callaway). It was only a matter of time before this latest sports craze invaded Orlando, and Topgolf made its debut near International Drive in late 2018.
Drive Shack, a smaller competitor in the field, also opened a location in Orlando – a little further away from the tourist corridor – just a year later.
These two are the casual golf entertainment equivalent of Coke and Pepsi. They have similar looks and serve similar markets, but there are subtle differences between them. We’ll go over everything you need to know so you can decide which one sounds most fun for you! Or, maybe you’ll be inspired to try both – because, after all, one can never play too much golf!
Casual Golf Turned Into Family Entertainment
Both venues have done a great job of transforming casual golf from a sport that generally thumbs its nose at novices into an activity that everyone can enjoy.
Much like bowling transformed itself by offering “Rock and Bowl” environments featuring music, laser lights, food, and drinks, Topgolf—and now Drive Shack—have done the same with casual golf.
Regardless of your skill level, you can thoroughly enjoy a day of casual golfing, playing with a competitive spirit, or just keeping it laid back and relaxed. The enhanced driving ranges feature long and short targets for all ages and skill levels. Additionally, golf balls have computer chips embedded in them, allowing you to choose a game that rewards distance, accuracy, or both depending on your selection.
Mini-golf wishes it could be this cool.
Your personal bay features everything you could possibly need for the day: an array of clubs (no need to bring your own!), a TV, and ample space where you can sit back and enjoy some delicious food and drinks. Oh, and there’s even a server who will attend to your needs! (Casual and fancy!)
Outside of your bay, there are also bars where you can grab a meal or something to drink after your round. During peak times, you can groove to the beats of live music or a DJ! Casual golf = party time.
Time to Grab the GPS…
The main difference and determining factor between Topgolf and Drive Shack is often the location of the venues.
Topgolf is in the heart of the tourist district, right off International Drive near the Orange County Convention Center. If you don’t have a rental car and rely on rideshare options from the Disney or Universal areas, Topgolf will likely be your choice.
On the other hand, Drive Shack is located near Orlando’s new Hospital City complex – an area that’s growing quickly but isn’t nearly as dense as the International Drive area. It’s in the Lake Nona region southwest of Orlando International Airport, so it’s approximately a 20-minute drive from the tourist corridor off of state road 417 (toll road). Because it’s not in as dense an area, you may have better luck getting reservations if you have the transportation to get there!
Let’s Break It Down
At each location, you pay by the bay, so the more people you have, the cheaper it’s going to be. Both venues charge by the hour, and it gets more expensive the later you get.
Drive Shack’s prices vary from $25-$45 per hour, depending on the time of day. Topgolf can either be cheaper or more expensive depending on the day of the week, and you also need to purchase a $5 membership card at Topgolf to play.
Punching a few buttons on the calculator can help you figure out which one is the best deal for your party!
While cost is definitely a factor, the game itself is also important to consider: Topgolf has more options for competitive games (13 in comparison to Drive Shack’s 4), so if you have less skilled golfers in your party, they may find an option that’s better for them at Topgolf!
No matter which casual golfing option you choose, it’s sure to be fun, so don’t stress about it too much!
Going Beyond The Golf Ball
Both Topgolf and Drive Shack are state-of-the-art, comfortable venues to enjoy a night out – even if you aren’t going to be taking any swings!
Of course, you should expect to pay a bit more for food and drinks (as you would from any entertainment venue), but both outfits offer a delicious menu that’s worth checking out! Each offers a wide variety of cocktails, bar-style shareable appetizers, and scrumptious entrees as well. From wings and nachos to pizzas, salads, and burgers, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy at both Drive Shack and Topgolf.
Both venues are kid-friendly, too! Drive Shack even offers entertainment outside of the game of casual golf. For example, they’ve got a super cool, retro arcade with basketball, foosball, and shuffleboard, along with old-school arcade favorites like Pac-Man! (Can I count as a kiddo, please? I really want to play Pac-Man.)
Topgolf also pays heed to the kiddos and has a KidsZone centered around golf. Here, pros on staff offer lessons, and half-day golf academies are offered at various times of the year. If your kiddo has an interest in trying out a new sport, this is a fantastic option that lets them dip their toes in the water and have a great time while doing so. (Beats committing to an entire year of soccer only to find out you’re terrible. Like, scoring a goal on the wrong end of the field terrible…)
Topgolf and Drive Shack also offer birthday party packages for families and friends, so you can turn your casual golfing game into a real celebration!
Get Your Swing on!
On your next Florida vacation, tee off with the guys, the gals, or even make it a date night out! Whether you go with Topgolf or Drive Shack, you’re sure to have a great time, making fun memories in a laid-back environment.
Move over dance clubs and fancy restaurants – casual golf is in the house!
(Fore!!)
Cover Image
Photo: Unsplash
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