New Topgolf is just the start for University City’s entertainment district

Why it matters: Topgolf is the anchor establishment of a proposed 40-acre entertainment district that is underway in University City. Cambridge Properties is the developer behind the project.

Flashback: The opening of this second Topgolf location wasn’t easy. In 2017, nearby neighborhoods launched a campaign to keep city council from giving the property the necessary rezoning. Plans to move forward with the development were approved in early 2018 with Topgolf being the first on the list.

Fast forward: The University area is on track to become a new South End-like hub for the Charlotte area. Jay Preister of Cambridge Properties tells me people typically spend their evenings and weekends within a couple miles of Charlotte’s Center City: Uptown, NoDa, South End. But this new entertainment district wants to change that.

What’s next: The next phase of the development includes a 150,000-square-foot office building, a 122-room hotel, 350 apartments, parking, 20,000 square feet of car dealership-related business and an additional 8,000 square feet of commercial space as reported by CBJ. And, yes, there will be scooters.

• When it comes to the timeline for the district, Preister says, “the biggest changes will happen over the next 24-36 months.”

Inside the new Topgolf:

University’s new Topgolf has a few new bells and whistles like four massive television screens that can be viewed from the first- and second-floor dining areas. Guests also have the option to step outside and relax on one of the three outdoor patios.

• Cost: Golf bays cost $27-$49 per hour depending on the day and time. Except on Tuesdays, when rates are half-priced.
• Menu: Guests can expect all of Topgolf’s signature menu items like the Smokehouse burger made with bacon, barbecue sauce, cheddar, lettuce, tomato and onions. Plus the signature nachos made with chimichurri bean spread, house-grilled steak, pepper jack, cheddar, Monterey Jack and topped with jalapeños.
• Location: 9110 Drivers Way.
• Hours: 10am-11pm, Sun-Thurs. 10am-12am, Fri-Sat.

Here’s a look around.