ABSTRACT
This study builds a database of 5,542 alternative golf facilities in the United States to examine their features, location and type. With this database we examine the factors associated with the successful operation of an alternative golfing facility. Thirdly, we estimate the relation between alternative and traditional golf facilities.
Green fees and rounds played at alternative facilities are positively linked with the presence of a driving range, a full bar along with a variety of food options, a dress code, and the acceptance of tee times. Golfers also seem to prefer newer and longer alternative golf facilities.
It is also observed that golfers pay and play more at alternative golf facilities when they are in markets with a large number of traditional golf facilities; and the same can be said for traditional golf facilities. According to these results, alternative and traditional golf facilities are complements, and they go hand in hand in producing thriving golf markets.
