When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Five Iron Golf
Why Five Iron Golf is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Five Iron Golf is a cutting-edge indoor golf entertainment venue that has transformed urban golf culture since its founding in 2017. Offering more than just golf, it merges state-of-the-art simulator technology with upscale amenities, creating a dynamic place where serious golfers and beginners alike can play, practice, and socialize. With over 32 locations across 13 U.S. states and internationally, Five Iron Golf provides access to over 200 championship courses via top-tier simulators like TrackMan and Full Swing, making the sport accessible regardless of weather, experience, or time of day. This venue features flexible event spaces suitable for celebrations or corporate gatherings, a full-service bar, a menu of locally crafted food, and games including ping pong and shuffleboard for a lively social atmosphere. The no-dress-code policy and inclusive vibe make it a great hub for friends to meet, whether for casual rounds, competitive leagues, or lessons from professional instructors. Amenities such as club storage, showers, and club fitting services enhance the experience, providing convenience alongside entertainment. Five Iron Golf successfully combines practice facilities and a modern social scene, making it an ideal urban destination to enjoy golf in a welcoming environment.
Here's what people think of Five Iron Golf
As of recent, Five Iron Golf holds a 4.8-star rating based on 283 reviews.
Customer reviews of Five Iron Golf generally reflect high satisfaction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 across 283 reviews. Positive reviews frequently highlight the impressive technology of the simulators, the quality of the food and drink menus, and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes the sport enjoyable for both novices and seasoned players. Many users praise the knowledgeable and accommodating staff, clean facilities, and the overall social vibe that encourages both playing and partying. The variety of events and leagues offered also receive positive mentions, as well as the facility’s versatility in catering to both casual visits and special occasions. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around occasional wait times during peak hours, pricing concerns for simulator rentals, and variability in service across different locations. A few reviews mention the challenge of booking popular times well in advance due to high demand. Despite minor criticisms, the majority of reviews conclude that Five Iron Golf offers a unique and fun experience that successfully blends golf with entertainment and socialization, making it a highly recommended destination for urban golf enthusiasts and groups looking for a memorable outing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
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Great last minute late night birthday date! The staff was great and very attentive. We arrived at 10pm we had reservations thinking it would be crowded and the place was almost empty but the vibes were a 10! The music selection was great during our 2 hour playtime . They had late night happy hour deals on a Saturday night with $5 wings and 1 free refill, they also had $5 shots and $6 whiskey lemonades. We were having so much fun that our 2 hours went by so fast. I can't wait to return this place, its great for birthdays, family night, date night, etc . Golf games are $25 per hour. Top Golf who ????? ... Monique W
Anna Karissa Reyes
My girlfriends and I love coming here! The vibes are awesome and the service is great. From the front desk to our bay, it’s always a good time experience. Tom, our server, was really attentive and made sure we had everything we needed. He also gave great recommendations on food and always checked in with us throughout our time.
Mar T
Where do I begin? The facility is absolutely fabulous. We came for an event tonight and they didn’t disappointment. The staff was courteous and attentive throughout the night. The manager Wes came to our area to check on us, when he noticed we were drinking aperol spritz, he asked if we would like to order a pitcher of it, we said we didn’t see it on the menu but he said he’d make it happen for us and Yes He Did. We ended up ordering 5 of them and a mimosa pitcher. The best team outing by far… We will be booking an event again for sure. Five Iron River North Rocks…
Monica Miller Walsh
What a find! The simulators were great both to help me improve my swing and also have fun. Above all, the staff is just wonderful: attentive, kind, encouraging and not at all pushy. Tim and Devin in particular always had a bay ready with clubs for me before I arrived, helped me set up the Trackman features I wanted to try, and kept my water glass full. I took three lessons with Kyle, and was very impressed with his teaching skills. He picked a few techniques to teach and instill each time. He was patient, encouraging and kind, but honest. My swing and confidence definitely improved. Thanks, Kyle! The one month pass was so worth it, on so many levels. I can’t say enough good things about 5 iron River North! Go now!
Tony Pacheco
Sachi and Taylor were great! Awesome night for our corporate event.
How to reach Five Iron Golf
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Why Five Iron Golf may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Five Iron Golf with your friends? Five Iron Golf offers a dynamic and immersive environment that effortlessly blends indoor golf, entertainment, and social interaction, making it an exceptional place to gather your friends or family. Whether you're passionate about golf or just looking for a fun night out, Five Iron Golf's state-of-the-art simulators and vibrant atmosphere provide a unique experience that appeals to all skill levels. The venue’s welcoming, no-dress-code policy helps strip away the intimidation often associated with golf, encouraging everyone to join in regardless of experience. Beyond just playing golf simulations, the space fosters camaraderie through friendly competitions, social zones, and excellent food and drinks that complement the lively vibe. Hosting your meetup here means you can enjoy a blend of sport, leisure, and socializing all under one roof, turning a routine get-together into a memorable, interactive party. This is not only a venue but a community space where fun and connection come naturally, making Five Iron Golf the perfect spot to rally with your friends.
What activities does Five Iron Golf offer for groups? Five Iron Golf is designed to engage groups with a rich variety of activities centered around innovative golf simulators powered by Trackman technology, giving players access to over 200 virtual golf courses from around the world. This includes renowned PGA Tour venues like Pebble Beach, offering realistic and challenging play. Besides traditional golf play, the venue presents a gamified golf experience with minigames and competitive team leagues that add excitement and variety, ideal for group competition or casual play. Five Iron Golf also features multiple sports simulators, including basketball, football, hockey, rugby, baseball, ping pong, and pool, ensuring that every visitor finds something appealing beyond golf. Additionally, groups can participate in professional golf lessons and swing evaluations, making it a great place to improve skills together or have friendly coaching sessions. Altogether, these diverse activities cater perfectly to groups looking for interactive entertainment with flexible competitive or casual options.
Why is Five Iron Golf perfect for hosting a group meetup? Five Iron Golf is tailored to create a memorable meetup experience thanks to its spacious, multi-level layout that accommodates groups of various sizes comfortably. The venue offers private and semi-private simulator bays where friends can play side by side in a personal lounge atmosphere equipped with tables and TVs, making it convenient for socializing while enjoying the games. The presence of a full-service bar and chef-inspired menu further enhances the experience, allowing groups to savor delicious food and craft cocktails without leaving the gaming floor. This blend of premium dining and cutting-edge entertainment means that gatherings can effortlessly transition from play to party. Staff at Five Iron Golf are known for their fast, friendly, and professional service that ensures group events run smoothly, from bookings to execution. Whether it’s a casual weekend round, a birthday celebration, or a corporate event, the venue’s vibe is lively and inviting, making everyone feel welcome and engaged.
How does the atmosphere at Five Iron Golf encourage social interaction? The atmosphere at Five Iron Golf is carefully curated to foster a social and energetic environment through its vibrant urban design and inclusive policies. There is a strong emphasis on community and interaction, supported by the venue’s open layout that encourages mingling while maintaining areas for focused play. Multiple floors dedicated to varied gaming and dining options create a bustling, yet comfortable, scene where groups can spread out or gather together easily. The absence of a strict dress code breaks down traditional barriers of golf culture, making it accessible and less formal for newcomers and seasoned players alike to interact freely. Regular events including leagues, contests, and specials promote recurring visits and friendly rivalries, strengthening bonds within visiting groups. This social vibe is amplified by attentive staff who engage guests warmly, creating an inviting, "whole vibe" that makes people want to stay longer and come back often.
What makes the food and drink selection at Five Iron Golf noteworthy? Five Iron Golf combines top-tier entertainment with an appealing culinary experience featuring a chef-inspired menu designed to complement the active social atmosphere. The venue’s food offerings range from shareable appetizers perfect for group snacking to hearty meals that keep energy levels high during play. Their bar serves a curated selection of craft cocktails, premium beers, and fine wines, which are ideal for unwinding between rounds or celebrating a great shot. The in-sim ordering feature adds convenience, allowing guests to order food and drinks without interrupting their game, enhancing the seamless nature of the experience. Frequent weekly drink specials and promotions provide added incentives for groups to partake in refreshments together, making the venue also a popular nightlife destination. The combination of great food, expertly mixed drinks, and technological ease of ordering significantly enhances the overall meetup experience.
In what ways does Five Iron Golf cater to both casual visitors and serious golf enthusiasts? Five Iron Golf strikes a unique balance that makes it equally enjoyable for casual visitors seeking fun and for golf enthusiasts aiming to practice or improve. Casual groups benefit from the relaxed and fun-oriented environment where the focus is on enjoyment and socializing without the pressures of traditional golf. The gamified elements and diverse sports simulators keep the experience lively and encourage participation from all group members, regardless of skill level. For serious golfers, the venue offers access to cutting-edge golf simulators equipped with high-speed swing cameras and advanced tracking technology for precise feedback, along with lessons from expert coaches available on-site. Golfers can practice swings, analyze performance, and even participate in competitive leagues, making Five Iron a serious training spot as well. This duality expands its appeal widely and ensures that groups with mixed interests all find something valuable during their visit.
How has Five Iron Golf expanded and positioned itself within the indoor golf and entertainment industry? Since its inception, Five Iron Golf has rapidly expanded with multiple locations across major U.S. cities and some international franchises, reflecting robust growth and strong market positioning. Its partnerships and investments, notably a $30 million backing from Topgolf Callaway Brands and a $20 million minority investment from a renowned hospitality group linked to Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer, highlight strong industry confidence. Five Iron is considered a leader in indoor urban golf with an innovative model that creatively blends entertainment, dining, and sport to attract a wide demographic beyond traditional golfers. Its ability to fill and sustain busy venues, particularly on weekend evenings, confirms its popularity as a social hub. The brand’s growing follower base on social media platforms and continuous additions of new locations affirm its vision of expanding the appeal of golf through accessible, tech-driven experiences. This positioning ensures that Five Iron Golf remains at the forefront of indoor entertainment venues suited for gatherings and social occasions.
What are users saying about their experience at Five Iron Golf? User reviews overwhelmingly praise Five Iron Golf for its excellent service, friendly and professional staff, and the quality of its golf simulators and other entertainment options. Guests frequently commend the venue as a hidden gem with a vibe that caters to both families and friend groups, highlighting the personable and efficient service that enhances the visit from arrival to departure. The venue’s ability to handle busy times without compromising guest experience is noted, along with frequent mentions of the delicious food and well-stocked bar. Customers appreciate the mix of golf and other sports simulations, which keeps everyone entertained and engaged. Many also express eagerness to return, testifying that Five Iron Golf is not just a golf venue but one of the top entertainment destinations for group events. This consistent positive feedback is a testament to the business’s strong commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.