Exclusive NGF Articles and Reports
Examining Golf Engagement Further ‘Off-Course’
While not included in off-course participation measures, mini golf, VR golf and video games see notable growth
Outside the current definition of "off-course participation," a number of golf-related activities that engage participants away from the golf course continue to grow. And they expand the game's reach, reinforce awareness, and help serve as a gateway to participation with other forms of off-course golf and even traditional, green-grass play.
October rounds see slight national year-over-year decline as cooler, wetter weather slows strong play momentum in certain regions.
The indoor golf simulator niche is one of the fastest-growing in the world of golf, both from a supply and facility standpoint, as well as a participation and engagement front. These member and free documents detail the latest research and insights into this rapidly-growing space.
NGF’s top award recognizes contributions to growing the game and business of golf
Topics: Facility Management, Green-Grass Facility
September rounds of golf were up again on a national level over the same period a year ago, keeping the U.S. golf market on pace for a record-setting year for rounds in 2025.
What is Behind the Rise of Private Golf Development?
Three states are leading the way, with over 50% of new private projects
The recent rise in private golf development is a notable departure from the current U.S. supply landscape, as more than half of new courses under construction or in-planning are private clubs. The current trajectory is attributable to a multitude of factors, both economic and societal, but is representative of a more measured and targeted approach than the industry experienced in the 1990s and into the early 2000s.
Buoyed in part by play at private clubs, rounds jumped in July and put 2025 almost on the same pace as last year's record-setting trajectory. It bears noting that July is traditionally the highest-volume month of the year when it comes to rounds-played.
Assessing the Trajectory of U.S. Municipal Golf
Numbers to know - from openings and closings to conversions and resurrections
Municipal golf is in a unique place. On one hand, there are high-profile examples of popular muni facilities on the proverbial chopping block due to land values. On the other, there are well-backed efforts to preserve and restore some of the game's most historic properties. Municipal facilities are typically where golf is most affordable and accessible to people of all demographics, and there's greater attention on their impact today given the sport's renaissance.
Moderate rise in April pulls 2025 YTD even with last year's record play
After a solid April, U.S. play through the first four months is even with the record-setting rounds levels in 2024.
Strong spring start again in northern climes
After seasonality limited play in some parts of the country in January and February, March rounds rebounded thanks to favorable golf weather in much of the northeast, helping spur another spring surge.
Beginners, Juniors, Female, Young Adults, Seniors, and People of Color
Concise and comprehensive one-page summary reports on various participation-related topics among the U.S. golfer population.
Facilities, Facility Health, Municipal Golf, Development, 9-Hole and Par 3
Concise and comprehensive one-page summary reports on various supply-related topics
