Planning a golf simulator party

Golf simulator venues have become a popular spot for birthdays, bachelor parties, team outings and holiday parties. The weather never matters, people who've never golfed can still play, and many venues have food, drinks and private space. A bit of planning makes the difference between a great event and a crowded bay where half the group stands around. Here's how to plan one.

Why a simulator venue works for groups

• Anyone can play. Simulator games are built for quick turns and short shots, so non-golfers have fun too.
• Private space. Each bay is its own room or booth, and many venues have party areas or can close off a section.
• Built-in activity. The golf gives people something to do and talk about, which helps groups who don't all know each other.
• Food and drink. Many venues have a kitchen or bar, and some let you bring your own. More on that below.

Start with the group

Headcount drives everything else. Only one person hits at a time in a bay, so the number of people per bay decides how much each guest plays. A packed bay means long waits; a lightly filled one keeps everyone swinging.

• Ask the venue its maximum per bay, and how many bays it can give you side by side.
• For bigger groups, ask about private rooms or a full buyout. Some venues have event spaces with several bays and a lounge.
• Think about mix. Put keen golfers together in one bay and casual players in another, or mix them for team games.
• Plan for people who won't play. Seating, food and a view of the screens keep them part of the party.

What to ask when you book

Event details vary a lot from venue to venue, so ask rather than assume. A checklist:

• Packages and pricing. What's included, and what's extra. Check the venue's event page or ask for a quote; we don't list prices.
• Deposit and cancellation rules, and the deadline for final numbers.
• Food and drink. In-house menu, platters, set packages, bar tabs. Can you bring a cake or outside food? Is it BYOB?
• Clubs. Enough rental clubs for everyone, including left-handed and junior sets if needed.
• Age rules. Especially at venues with a bar. Some limit who can come, or when.
• A host. Will staff set up the games, explain the system and keep things running?
• Extras. Decorations, music, a screen for slides or a toast, prizes.
• Practical things. Parking, accessibility, coat storage and how to split the bill.

Games that work for groups

A full 18-hole round with a big group is usually too slow. Short, quick games keep everyone involved:

• Closest to the pin. One shot each at a target. Easy to understand and fair to beginners.
• Long drive. Everyone loves it, golfers or not.
• Skills and target challenges. Many simulators have built-in party games with points and leaderboards.
• Team scramble. Split into teams for a few holes. Everyone hits, the team plays the best shot. Strong and new players both contribute.
• A bay-versus-bay final. Run a short contest in each bay, then send the winners into a playoff.

Small prizes, even silly ones, make the games more fun. Pick one person to run scores and keep the rotation moving.

Kids' parties

Many venues welcome kids, and a simulator party can be a hit. A few things change when kids come along:

• Check the venue's age policy first. Venues with a bar may limit kids to certain areas or times.
• Ask for junior clubs. Adult clubs are too long and heavy for young kids.
• Choose games over rounds. Short challenges hold attention far better than holes of golf.
• Make safety rules clear. One person in the hitting area at a time, everyone else behind a line, no swinging clubs outside the hitting area. Have an adult in each bay.
• Plan breaks. Food, cake and a second activity give kids who lose interest something to do.

Adult parties and team outings

For birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties and holiday parties, the venue's food and drinks become a bigger part of the plan. Ask about set menus and drink packages, and plan everyone's ride home if alcohol is involved.

For corporate events and team building, a few extras help:

• Mix the teams. Scrambles with mixed departments or skill levels get people talking.
• Keep the schedule simple. Arrival and food, a short welcome, games, awards, then open play.
• Ask about invoices and payment if the company is paying.
• Collect dietary needs ahead of time and send them to the venue.

On the day

• Arrive before your guests to check the bays, clubs and food.
• Ask staff to give a quick safety and how-to talk when everyone arrives.
• Put the first games on the screen before people start drinking or eating, so the golf actually starts.
• Keep an eye on time. Bays are booked in blocks, and the next group may be waiting.
• Settle the bill and thank the staff before you leave.

Questions

Do guests need to know how to golf?

No. Party games are built for beginners, and staff can show people the basics. Our first-timer's guide is a good link to send guests.

Can we bring a cake or outside food?

Some venues allow it, some don't, and some charge a fee. Ask when you book.

How far ahead should I book?

As early as you can for weekends and the holiday season. Weeknight parties are usually easier to book on short notice.

Is a simulator party a good idea for young kids?

It can be, with junior clubs, short games, clear safety rules and an adult in each bay. Check the venue's age policy first.

Find a venue for your party

• Golf simulator bars, with food and drinks as named in reviews or on the venue's site.
• Indoor golf venues by state. Each listing shows what reviews or the venue's website say about parties, kids and food.
• Venues with leagues, if the party turns into a weekly habit.

Golf simulator bars Venues by state