What Is a Driving Range? A Beginner’s Guide
Whether you’re new to golf or looking for a place to sharpen your swing, a driving range is the perfect spot to practice. But what exactly is a driving range, and why do so many golfers use them?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from how driving ranges work to what to expect on your first visit.
What Is a Driving Range?
A driving range is a facility where golfers can practice their long-distance shots. Unlike a full golf course, a driving range is a designated area where players hit golf balls into an open field or netted area. The goal? Improve your swing, accuracy, and distance — without the pressure of playing a full round of golf.
You’ll usually find driving ranges at golf clubs, standalone facilities, or even indoor venues with virtual simulators.
What Can You Do at a Driving Range?
Driving ranges offer a relaxed and flexible way to work on different aspects of your golf game. Here’s what you can typically do:
Practice long shots: Hit balls with a driver or iron to improve distance and consistency.
Work on your technique: Focus on your stance, grip, and swing mechanics without keeping score.
Use different clubs: Test out a range of clubs to understand how each one behaves.
Track your progress: Some modern ranges offer technology like ball tracking, distance data, and swing analysis.
Warm up before a round: Many golfers use the range to warm up before heading out onto the course.
How Does a Driving Range Work?
Here’s how a typical visit goes:
Buy a bucket of balls – Most ranges offer small, medium, or large buckets.
Choose a bay – You’ll stand in a marked area (called a bay) where you can safely hit balls.
Bring or rent clubs – You can bring your own golf clubs or rent a set if needed.
Start swinging! – Hit balls at your own pace toward distance markers placed throughout the range.
Some driving ranges are automated, where balls are teed up for you. Others are more traditional, where you place your own ball on a rubber tee mat.
Are Driving Ranges Just for Experienced Golfers?
Not at all. Driving ranges are beginner-friendly and ideal for anyone interested in learning the game. You don’t need to be a pro — in fact, many people visit ranges to try golf for the first time.
They’re also great for:
Families and kids trying out golf in a relaxed environment
Casual players looking to blow off steam after work
Experienced golfers fine-tuning specific aspects of their game
Indoor vs Outdoor Driving Ranges
There are two main types:
Outdoor driving ranges – These are traditional open-air fields with real turf or mats. You’ll often find them at golf clubs or standalone venues.
Indoor driving ranges – Found in urban areas or during colder months, these use simulators and ball tracking tech to recreate the feel of real golf indoors.
Both offer unique benefits, and your choice depends on location, weather, and personal preference.
Why Use a Driving Range?
Here are some of the top reasons golfers love using driving ranges:
No need to book a full round
Affordable and time-flexible
Helps build muscle memory
Great way to test new equipment
Accessible for all skill levels
Find a Driving Range Near You
Ready to hit the range? Use our Golf Driving Range Directory to find the best driving ranges near you. Whether you’re in the city or countryside, we’ll help you discover top-rated facilities with reviews, opening hours, and everything you need to know before you go.