Apple Creek Golf Course blends green fees and arcade games

What do you get when you combine a golf course and an arcade? Apple Creek, of course. During COVID, the Airdrie location had to think outside the box.

There’s more than just one kind of game at Apple Creek Golf Course in Rocky View County.

Apple Creek isn’t just about pars, birdies and bogeys. It’s also about high scores, being on target and sinking as many baskets as you can.

Coming out of the pandemic, Apple Creek had to find a way to draw in customers. That led to the purchase of over 60 arcade games that now occupy two floors of their clubhouse.

Apple Creek golf director and head professional Tyrel Babkirk said they’re changed regularly to keep them fresh and they’ve proven to be a big hit with patrons.

“As everybody knows, COVID affected people in many different ways and that was an opportunity for our ownership to pivot and think outside the box,” Babkirk said.

“I tell you there’s been no looking back and it’s been a great experience to have energy and kids around the facility.”

Two ways to play

The sign along the road says it all. “Two ways to play” Apple Creek golf and arcade.

On this day, Roy Honeychurch and his buddies were all about the golf.

“Well we’re here for the golf today,” he said.

“The arcade looks pretty good and we’ll try that one day, but on a day like this it’s definitely outdoor golfing.”

The fact you have a choice makes this golf course so unique. Babkirk says sometimes you just have to think outside the box.

“I’ve been in the golf industry for 25 plus years and I never once thought hat I’d be a part of something like this,” he said. “We’ve got more in store (too), so stay tuned to what Apple Creek is up to.”

“Well it’s going to involve a putter but it won’t be on our greens. It will be maybe on a different part of the facility.”

Course improvements

As for the golf course, Apple Creek was well known for having a lot of fescue around its greens, making it difficult.

But that’s all been cut back making the course much more playable. Babkirk encourages golfers or gamers to come and check it out.

“This is free of urban influence,” he said.

It’s a great place to look around and enjoy the country and spend time with friends. And who knows? Your high score or low score could be right here at Apple Creek.”