From Neighborhoods to Campgrounds: How Golf Carts Are Taking Over
Golf carts may have started on the fairways, but these days they’ve become a familiar sight well beyond the course. From neighborhoods and campgrounds to airports and resorts, people are finding all sorts of ways to put their carts to good use.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common and creative places where people use golf carts today.
1. Neighborhoods & Residential Communities
Golf carts are quickly becoming a popular way to get around neighborhoods and communities across the country. Families use them for short trips to the community pool, quick stops at a neighbor’s house, or simply for a fun cruise together — often with music playing through the built-in sound systems many newer carts now feature.
Often, you’ll see golf carts parked in driveways right alongside regular cars. Many people choose to use their golf cart whenever possible, since it’s convenient to hop in and go, easy to park, and just plain fun. Some neighborhoods even host golf cart parades or group rides.
2. Campgrounds & RV Parks
Campgrounds and RV parks are also popular places for golf carts, and sometimes they’re even essential. These areas can be pretty big, so walking everywhere—especially with supplies—can be tough. With a golf cart, it’s much easier to move coolers, firewood, or camping gear from one spot to another.
Families often use golf carts to explore trails, visit campground amenities, or just cruise around and say hello to neighbors. Many RV parks rent out carts, so you don’t have to bring your own. If you plan to use a cart at a campground, keep in mind that some parks only allow electric golf carts, so it’s smart to check the rules first.
3. Lake & Beach Towns
If you’ve ever visited a lake or beach town, you’ve probably noticed golf carts everywhere. They’re great for quick trips to the marina or along the waterfront, especially when you’re carrying fishing gear, beach chairs, or a cooler of snacks. Often, getting to a lake marina means heading down a big ramp, so riding in a golf cart definitely beats that brutal walk back up after a long day on the lake.
Many of these towns support using golf carts to cut down on traffic and keep things laid-back. Some places even offer special golf cart parking near docks and beach entrances, making carts a regular part of life by the water.
4. Large Properties & Rural Areas
For people with farms, ranches, or large properties, golf carts have become a practical alternative to trucks or ATVs. They’re handy for transporting tools, checking on livestock, or carrying feed and supplies from one end of a property to another.
Unlike larger vehicles, carts are lightweight, maneuverable, and easy on the terrain. Many owners customize theirs with utility beds, racks, or towing hitches to handle specific chores. Usually, a gas golf cart is the go-to in these types of environments.
5. Retirement & Cart-Friendly Communities
Retirement communities have especially embraced golf carts as a way of life. Many of these neighborhoods are designed with wide paths and streets that welcome carts alongside bicycles and cars.
The slower pace of golf cart travel fits perfectly with the relaxed lifestyle many retirees are seeking. Places like The Villages in Florida come to mind, where residents take their carts to concerts in the town square, drive to the grocery store, visit local restaurants, and everything in between.
6. Events, Festivals & Parades
Golf carts are a big part of many events and holidays. In lots of areas, Halloween and Christmas golf cart parades are now a favorite tradition. People decorate their carts with lights, flags, or fun themes. Families and friends enjoy making their carts unique, and it’s always so cool to see everyone’s creativity on display. Do a quick Google search for “golf cart Halloween parade” and you’ll see what we mean!
At festivals and fairs, golf carts are also very useful for getting people and supplies from one place to another. They can help shuttle VIP guests, move equipment, and handle many other tasks.
7. Commercial & Business Uses
Businesses have found many ways to use golf carts. At airports, they help move passengers between terminals or gates. Resorts use them to carry guests, luggage, and staff across large properties. They are also very common in industrial plants. Often, you’ll see maintenance staff carrying tools or supplies in utility golf carts.
A Growing Part of Everyday Life
Golf carts are popular in many places because they are so versatile. They are simple to drive, cost little to maintain, and new electric models are better for the environment. In neighborhoods, campgrounds, businesses, and beach towns, carts make short trips and daily tasks easier.
As a result, golf carts are no longer just for the sport they were named after. Today, they have become used for all kinds of purposes, from getting work done to enjoying time with neighbors.
Ready to see how a golf cart could fit into your lifestyle? Browse a wide selection of new and used carts today on CartFinder and find the perfect ride for your needs.
