Are you planning a fun night out with your friends or family but can’t decide whether to go bowling or Topgolf? Both games offer an enjoyable experience, but there are differences in terms of cost, the skill level required, and overall experience.
In this article, we will compare Topgolf and Bowling to help you decide which one is better for your next night out.
Table of Contents
What is Topgolf?
Topgolf is a relatively new game that combines golf and entertainment. It is played on a multi-level driving range where players aim for targets that are scattered throughout the course. Each ball has a microchip that tracks its accuracy and distance, and the scores are calculated automatically. Topgolf is an excellent option for people who enjoy golf but also want to have a fun social experience.
What is Bowling?
Bowling is a classic and popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. It involves rolling a heavy ball down a narrow lane in an attempt to knock down 10 pins arranged in a triangular formation at the end of the lane. Players typically have two attempts per turn to knock down as many pins as possible, with a maximum score of 300.
Bowling is not only a fun activity but also a competitive sport, with many professional tournaments and leagues held around the world. It’s a great way to socialize, stay active, and enjoy some friendly competition with friends and family. Bowling is a fun activity for people of all ages and skill levels.
Cost Comparison
The cost of playing Topgolf and Bowling can vary significantly depending on the location and time of day. However, as a general rule, Topgolf tends to be more expensive than bowling. The cost of playing Topgolf is usually calculated per hour, and it can range from $25 to $50 per hour per bay, depending on the location.
In contrast, bowling typically costs around $4 to $8 per game, depending on the location and time of day.
Skill Level Required
Both Topgolf and Bowling can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels. However, Topgolf does require a certain level of skill and coordination to play well. Since it involves hitting targets at different distances, players need to be able to adjust their swings and aim accurately. Bowling is relatively straightforward and can be played by people of all ages and skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Topgolf offers a fun and social environment that can be enjoyed by everyone. Children under the age of 6 may get bored quickly while playing Topgolf because they may not be able to hit the balls far enough. The games and targets are designed to cater to different levels of skill and the facility offers various food and drink options, making it a great entertainment option for families, groups of friends, or even corporate events.
Entertainment Value
Both Topgolf and Bowling offer an excellent entertainment experience. However, the entertainment value of Topgolf is more significant than bowling. Topgolf offers a unique experience that combines golf and entertainment, making it an excellent option for people who want to have a fun social experience.
In contrast, bowling is a classic game that is enjoyable, but it may not be as exciting as Topgolf.
Group Size
Both Topgolf and Bowling can be played by groups of various sizes. However, Topgolf is better suited for larger groups, while Bowling is more suitable for smaller groups. Topgolf offers multiple bays that can accommodate up to six people each, making it an excellent option for parties and events. In contrast, bowling alleys usually have a limited number of lanes, which can make it challenging to accommodate large groups.
Food and Drinks
Both Topgolf and Bowling offer food and drinks, but the quality and variety can vary significantly. Topgolf typically offers a more extensive menu that includes a variety of snacks, burgers, pizzas, and drinks. Bowling alleys usually offer a more limited selection of food and drinks, such as hot dogs and beer.
The food at Topgolf is generally regarded as quite good, with a variety of tasty options available to suit different tastes and preferences. The menu includes a range of classic American dishes such as burgers, wings, and nachos, as well as some more unique offerings such as the “injectable donut holes” dessert. Many visitors also praise the quality of the drinks served at the Topgolf bars, which include a range of cocktails, beers, and wines.
Overall, the food quality at Topgolf is typically considered to be on par with other casual dining establishments and adds to the overall enjoyable experience of a night out at the venue.
Location
Topgolf locations are usually found in urban areas, while bowling alleys are typically found in suburbs or smaller towns. Topgolf locations are often a bit harder to get to as they usually lie outside the city center. Bowling alleys are typically easier to reach and often offer ample parking.
Dress Code
The dress code is different at Topgolf and bowling alleys. At Topgolf, there is usually no specific dress code as long as the attire is appropriate and no high heels are worn as they can damage the turf. Bowling alleys typically offer special shoes to their customers, meaning you need not be worry about your Shoes. However, it would be smart to wear comfortable dress to enable casual movement while bowling.
For Topgolf you can read more about it here:
Time Spent Playing
When it comes to the amount of time spent playing, there can be differences between Topgolf and bowling. At Topgolf, players typically rent a bay for a set amount of time, usually around an hour, and take turns hitting golf balls towards the targets. The pace of play can vary depending on the size of the group and the skill level of the players. However, players can spend additional time eating, drinking, and socializing at the venue.
In comparison, bowling typically involves renting a lane for a set amount of time, usually per game, which usually lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. This means that bowling is usually played faster than Topgolf. The pace of play can also vary depending on the size of the group and the skill level of the players. However, unlike Topgolf, there may be downtime between turns while waiting for other players to bowl.
Overall, the amount of time spent playing can be similar between Topgolf and bowling, but Topgolf offers additional opportunities for socializing and enjoying the venue beyond just the gameplay itself.
Equipment and Facilities
The equipment and facilities at Topgolf and bowling alleys are also different. At Topgolf, golf clubs and balls are provided, usually in various sizes. At bowling alleys, bowling balls, and shoes are typically provided. Some bowling alleys also offer other facilities such as pool tables and video game machines.
If you want to bring your own clubs to Topgolf you read more about it here:
Safety Measures
Safety measures are important at Topgolf and bowling to ensure that players are safe and protected. At Topgolf, there are usually safety nets and barriers to prevent balls from leaving the playing area and injuring other players. In bowling alleys, there are usually safety bars to prevent players from running into the bowling lane and getting injured.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors at Topgolf and bowling might affect the playing experience. Bowling is usually independent of weather conditions as most bowling alleys are indoors. Playing outdoors at Topgolf can be very enjoyable in any weather, since most Topgolf venues have heated bays, allowing for year-round play. However, it’s always best to check with the specific Topgolf location for their policies and availability during the winter season.
Conclusion
Topgolf and bowling are both fun activities for an evening out with friends or family. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on individual preferences. Topgolf is more expensive, requires more skill, and offers a unique experience. Bowling is more affordable, easier to play, and offers a classic experience. When choosing an activity, consider the cost, difficulty, and personal preferences.
FAQs
Is Topgolf suitable for beginners?
Yes, Topgolf is suitable for beginners as well as experienced players. The game is designed to be fun for everyone, regardless of their skill level.
Do I need to bring my own equipment to Topgolf?
No, Topgolf provides golf clubs and balls for players to use during their game.
Can I wear high heels to Topgolf?
No, high heels are not allowed at Topgolf as they can damage the turf.
Can I bring my own bowling ball to the bowling alley?
Yes, you can bring your own bowling ball to the bowling alley if you prefer to use your own equipment.
Is bowling a good activity for kids?
Yes, bowling can be a fun activity for kids as well as adults. Most bowling alleys have lightweight balls and bumpers to make it easier for children to play.
