PopStroke

Imagine the perfect blend of competitive sport and laid-back relaxation: that is exactly what PopStroke is—a modern entertainment complex in the city of Tuscaloosa. Opening in early 2024, this venue is the first in the USA state of Alabama to represent the famous chain, offering guests a unique experience of "tech-forward" mini-golf and casual dining.

The main highlight of the complex is its two 18-hole courses, designed with premium synthetic turf. Unlike traditional children's mini-golf courses, these recreate the terrain of real golf courses: complete with bunkers, fairways, and rough, making the game engaging even for experienced golfers. The architecture of the main building deserves special mention—it's constructed from stylish modular containers, creating a modern industrial look.

Beyond the sporting achievements, a spacious outdoor terrace with a full bar and restaurant awaits guests. Here, you can try craft beer, signature cocktails, or visit the on-site ice cream parlor with 16 different flavors. A high-tech mobile app allows you to track match results in real-time and even order drinks directly to the hole without interrupting the game.

For booking details or organizing a private event, you can contact the entertainment complex administration directly. Current information is also regularly updated on the project's official website.

The main draw for visitors is, without a doubt, mini-golf. You can choose one of two unique courses, each challenging your putting skills in its own way. Thanks to a partnership with the legendary Tiger Woods, the hole designs are meticulously planned, allowing beginners to enjoy the game while pros can hone their precision. All scores are recorded in the mobile app, adding a spirit of healthy competition to every round.

Between rounds, guests can head to the recreation area featuring various outdoor games: from ping-pong and foosball to the popular American classic, cornhole. For sports fans, giant screens are installed throughout the venue broadcasting major games, creating the energy of a great open-air sports bar.

Be sure to stop by the restaurant area to sample fast-casual gourmet dishes or cool off with a signature milkshake from the local ice cream shop. If you are traveling with friends or planning a corporate event, the complex has private areas with excellent views of the courses where you can spend time in a more intimate setting.

The entertainment complex is located at 680 Harper Lee Drive, just one mile from the University of Alabama campus. If you are arriving by car, the trip from the city center will take about 10–15 minutes. Convenient free parking is provided on-site for visitors, making the journey as comfortable as possible.

For those who prefer public transportation, buses run in the vicinity; however, a short walk may be required from the nearest stops. The fastest way to get there from the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport is by taxi or Uber/Lyft—the ride takes about 20 minutes.

Thanks to its proximity to the university, many students prefer to reach the venue on foot or by bicycle. The path from the academic buildings takes very little time, making it easy to balance studies with active recreation.

The chain's history began in 2019 thanks to an idea by Greg Bartoli, a former JP Morgan executive. Inspired by the success of his small golf cafe in Florida, he decided to create a large-scale space where sport and gastronomy merge into one. The name PopStroke carries a warm personal meaning: the "Pop" part is a tribute to the founder's father, known in the family as "PopPop," while "Stroke" is a well-known golf term.

The project quickly caught the attention of global sports stars. In 2020, the legendary Tiger Woods became an investor in the company, and the TaylorMade Golf brand later joined the partnership. This collaboration allowed mini-golf course design to reach a professional level while keeping the game accessible for amateurs.

The location in Tuscaloosa became the tenth in the chain and the first in the state of Alabama. Its grand opening took place in January 2024. This venue is notable for being the first "college town" branch, specifically adapted to the needs of the student community and local families.

The creators paid special attention to technology. A specially developed app allows guests not only to keep score digitally but also to order food or drinks directly to the hole. This modern approach has transformed classic mini-golf into high-tech 21st-century entertainment.

To fully enjoy everything the complex has to offer, visitors usually need between 2 to 4 hours. One round on an 18-hole course takes about an hour, but since there are two courses, many guests prefer to try their hand at both.

If you plan to not only play but also have lunch on the terrace or spend time playing lawn games, it is worth setting aside about half a day for your visit. Families and groups of friends often stay longer, enjoying signature cocktails and the festive sports atmosphere.

The entertainment complex is open daily, allowing guests to enjoy the game during both the day and under evening lighting. From Sunday to Wednesday, the doors are open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and from Thursday to Saturday, hours are extended until midnight.

Since the schedule may change on holidays or due to special golf leagues, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the official PopStroke website before your visit.

After an active game of mini-golf and a delicious meal, it is worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The city is rich in interesting locations, from historic mansions to picturesque university squares that help you truly feel the atmosphere of the Southern states.