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Summary of Off-Course Golf in the U.S. – 2026


The PopStroke concept is rooted in golf, with a growing portfolio of tech-enabled putting venues that blend golf with F&B and social experiences, but this modern golf entertainment version of mini golf isn't counted among NGF's off-course forms of participation. While PopStroke's owner acknowledges the platform exists adjacent to golf, he also sees its influence within the game's broader ecosystem.
The Revealing Complement Between Off and On-Course Golf
Almost 10% of golfers got started away from the golf course, and ties run deeper

In each of the past two years, the number of Americans participating in off-course forms of golf has surpassed the total number of traditional, on-course players. But the off-course game is complementing the on-course game rather than passing it by. Here's how.

Off-Course Golf Facility Growth


New On-Ramps Help Boost Golf Participation
Proliferation of off-course golf is a factor in on-course growth

Looking broadly at the game’s evolution and its overall participant base, the total number of on- and off-course golfers in the U.S. has risen to record levels because of the emergence and continued growth of non-traditional forms of the game.

The number of off-course golf participants and off-course venues continues to grow, from golf entertainment facilities like Topgolf, Drive Shack and BigShots to commercial simulator locations popping up around the country. So, how big can the off-course golf market get?





