The first couple decades of this century witnessed a marked decline in golf’s popularity. Some 1,200 golf courses were shuttered nationwide, and from 2003 to 2018, U.S. golf participation plunged by 6.8 million participants. Golf pros feared for the sport’s future.

Then came the Covid-19 pandemic, and its corresponding recommendation of social distancing. Moving outdoors onto the wide-open golf links seemed an ideal response.

Interest in the game has surged ever since, and is reflected in the growing popularity of golf simulator experiences like TopGolf and X-Golf, as well as in golf driving ranges. The opportunity to play a round on 3D virtual representations of legendary golf courses has hooked legions of linksters. Golf simulator settings have become a relaxed place for fun, social gatherings, as well as corporate events and team-building experiences.

Never one to pass on crowd-pleasing features that can attract move-ins to their residential offerings, shrewd developers have increasingly found reason to incorporate golf simulators into their buildings. The move ensures residents can hone their swings or play a round with friends without ever booking a tee time. Here’s a look at several residential communities that top the leaderboard in golf-related amenities and extras.

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