The local golf scene brings more than world-renowned holes and the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. It brings tons of kids’ programs. Here, both young children and teens can enjoy many forms of golf, from top courses to tech-infused mini golf.
Traditional
Troon North
You can find one of the truly great local golf lessons for kids at Troon North in North Scottsdale (pictured), where groups of beginner-level kids learn in a fun atmosphere. Kids as young as 5 gain a handle on how to grip, how to swing, and the basics of putting, chipping, and driving with instructors that use games to stoke friendly competition. It all happens from a perch where you can see rocky mountains, saguaros all around, and a view of the clubhouse. During summer, camps are also available for kids 17 and younger.
The Short Course at Mountain Shadows
This scenic Paradise Valley par-three (pictured in header) offers shorter holes, leading to fast, engaging rounds ideal for kids. Though as short as 75 yards, holes are long on desert views and unique features. For instance, the seventh hole, named “Jutty,” requires players to loft their ball over water and onto a peninsula jutting out from the resort’s iconic pool. Best of all, at Mountain Shadows younger golfers get a discount – kids 9 and under play for $25, while kids 10-15 receive half off the adult rate.
Gainey Ranch Golf Club
The program of kids’ lessons at Gainey Ranch Golf Club (called “Crush It!) teaches not only golf, but respect and how to be a well-rounded person. Crush It! has a ton of nifty offerings tailored to your child’s skill level: monthly group sessions, play on a course modified for kids (where rules and scoring are taught), social events for juniors, junior camps, and even a Junior PGA League. Children 12 and under can start each hole from special “junior tees,” and children under 15 accompanied by a paying adult can play for free.
Talking Stick Golf Club
This club’s First Tee program offers lessons to members aged 7-18. Students do not need to bring their own clubs, but they can. Lessons are 60 or 90 minutes and take place at the range and practice area. Talking Stick also has a PGA Jr. League team for children of all skill levels who are less than 13. The cost is $325 for the season, and players get gear, free range balls, plenty of team practices, and a season (and postseason!) of matches.
Non-traditional
Puttshack
This multistory, 4-course compound in Scottsdale Quarter (pictured) blends colorful lights, technology, and imaginative interactive elements into a fun minigolf extravaganza. It’s ideal for kids aged 7+, but younger children are welcome. Kids under 13 get in for just $9, a cool $5 discount. Spacious private rooms are very well-equipped to host kids’ parties on Saturdays and Sundays, with a choice of menu from the restaurant. A DJ plays lively music every weekend.
Topgolf
Everybody’s favorite new-age driving rage is amazing for kids. Topgolf has a Summer Academy, which is a series of weekly summer golf camps for kids 6-12. At camp, instruction is more relaxed than on a traditional golf course. Topgolf also offers junior lessons for kids under 17, including public, small group, and private lessons. Even the standard Topgolf experience caters to kids. Thanks to clever tracking, your ball synchronizes with games like Angry Birds, letting kids play digital games with their drives.
Popstroke
Owned by Tiger Woods, this newer experience with two 18-hole putting courses combines golf and relaxed dining. Kids 3-5 enter for $21 (compared to the standard $35). The putting courses are very kid friendly, short and playable for nearly all skill levels. After your round, you get to keep your ball. Additionally, there are plenty of other activities, including ping pong, foosball, and a shaded outdoor playground with a soft rubber floor. The restaurant has a patio and kids’ menu.
