America's First Indoor 18-Hole 'Golf Course' Is in the Works

A groundbreaking project is underway in the United States, poised to revolutionize the game of golf for urban dwellers. CityGolf USA has announced the development of what it describes as "America's first full 18-hole indoor golf course," slated to open in Nashville this winter. This ambitious venture aims to offer an entirely new way to play, blending cutting-edge technology with traditional golf elements.

The CityGolf USA concept distinguishes itself from other similar initiatives, such as the proposed Megalodome in Chicago, which envisioned an executive course within interconnected domes. Instead, CityGolf USA is embracing a hybrid approach. Players will navigate 18 sequential holes using high-tech Golfzon simulators housed within a sprawling 175,000-square-foot warehouse. A key feature is that after striking the virtual ball on the screen, the screen lifts to reveal a real putting surface where players complete the hole. This innovative format bears resemblance to the recently announced TGL league.

Beyond the playing area, the new venue will offer a comprehensive suite of amenities, building on the success of popular alternative golf entertainment venues like Topgolf. Guests can expect a restaurant, a bar, a pro shop, and private event spaces. Additionally, certified PGA teaching professionals will be on staff to assist golfers of all skill levels in improving their game.

While simulator golf and similar entertainment venues may elicit mixed reactions, it's undeniable that the golf industry is ripe for disruption, particularly in urban areas where time is scarce and land is at a premium. This is precisely the target market for CityGolf USA. Nashville will serve as the first location in a planned network of facilities across the country, each aiming to redefine what a round of golf can be.

Other Golf World News:

• Tobacco Road Sprouts a Short Course: Renowned architect Mike Strantz, known for his unconventional course designs, has left his mark beyond the famed Tobacco Road in North Carolina. A new 12-hole short course, The Matchbox, has opened, featuring synthetic turf and a unique landscape integrated into the natural surroundings. It opened on August 1 and continues Strantz's iconoclastic spirit.

• The Latest Whispers from Whispering Pines: In the same Sandhills region of North Carolina, Kyle Franz's renovation of the Pines Course at the Country Club of Whispering Pines is nearing completion. The course is expected to reopen in September, expanding the portfolio of Ross Resorts, the ownership group that previously restored three other prominent area courses: Mid Pines, Pine Needles, and Southern Pines.

• A Taste of Candyroot: Another emerging project from the Carolinas is Candyroot Lodge, a resort development near Jefferson, South Carolina, about 80 miles southeast of Charlotte. It will welcome preview play on its first course starting October 28. Designed by Broomsedge architect Mike Koprowski, the course is poised to be a significant addition for golfers in the Charlotte area, which has a relative scarcity of high-quality public-access destination golf. Instead of traditional tee times, Candyroot will offer day passes for $175, which include unlimited golf, food, drinks, and a swag bag. These passes go on sale September 8 on the Candyroot website.