How to Book an Indoor Golf Simulator: A Complete Guide

Ryan Frerichs
Sep 5
4 min read

Golf is no longer limited to green fairways and sunny days. Thanks to technology, golfers can now enjoy realistic, data-driven, and weather-proof experiences indoors. Whether you’re a beginner learning your swing or a seasoned player fine-tuning your skills, indoor golf simulators are becoming the go-to choice. If you’re wondering how to book golf simulators with ease, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

Why Choose an Indoor Golf Simulator?

Indoor golf simulators are more than just an alternative to outdoor golf. They combine cutting-edge technology, realistic visuals, and advanced analytics to give you a professional yet fun golfing experience.

Here’s why players love them:

Year-round play: Rain, snow, or blazing heat—indoor golf keeps the game going.
World-famous courses: Play Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, or Augusta National, all without leaving your city.
Practice with precision: Simulators like TrackMan, SkyTrak, and Foresight Sports use launch monitors to track ball speed, spin, and swing path.
Perfect for everyone: From beginners to professionals, solo sessions to group outings, they’re adaptable to any skill level.
Social and fun: Great for friends, families, or even corporate events.

Value tip: Indoor golf simulators often cost less per session than a round of outdoor golf, making them budget-friendly for regular practice.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book an Indoor Golf Simulator

Booking a simulator may feel unfamiliar if you’ve never done it before. Don’t worry—it’s as easy as reserving a restaurant table or movie ticket. Let’s break it down:

Step 1: Search for a location near you

Start with a simple search on Google, Yelp, or golf-specific directories. Type phrases like:

“indoor golf simulator near me”
“golf bay booking [your city]”
“virtual golf courses near me”

You’ll find sports bars, golf lounges, and indoor facilities offering simulator bays.

Example: If you live in New York, search “indoor golf simulator NYC” and you’ll see a list of top-rated spots with reviews, photos, and directions.

Step 2: Compare facilities and pricing

Not all simulators are the same. Some use high-end systems like TrackMan or Foresight Sports, while others offer more basic setups. Compare:

Technology used – High-definition graphics, swing analysis, putting accuracy.
Atmosphere – Sports lounge vibe vs. private practice rooms.
Pricing – Most charge hourly; $30–$70 per hour is typical.
Packages – Memberships, group discounts, or corporate rates.

Tip: If you’re just trying it out, book a 1-hour slot. For a full 18-hole round with 2–4 players, consider at least 2–3 hours.

Step 3: Check availability and times

Just like a gym class or bowling alley, golf simulators can get busy. Prime slots are usually:

Evenings (after work)
Weekends (afternoons and evenings)

If you want to avoid crowds and maybe save money, aim for off-peak hours like weekday mornings.

Example: A Chicago golf lounge might offer “Happy Hour” pricing from 10 AM–3 PM at $25/hr instead of $50/hr.

Step 4: Book online or by phone

Most indoor golf businesses offer an online booking system. Simply:

Pick your date and time.
Select the number of players.
Confirm pricing and pay online.

Alternatively, you can call the venue to make a reservation. Some also allow walk-ins, but that’s risky if the bays are full.

Tip: Save the confirmation email or text—it often includes important details like cancellation policies or what to bring.

Step 5: Confirm & prepare for your session

Once your booking is set:

Bring your own clubs (most venues allow this, though some have rentals).
Wear comfortable clothing—you don’t need golf shoes unless specified.
Arrive early so you can get familiar with the simulator setup.

Staff usually give beginners a quick walkthrough on how to use the system. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—that’s what they’re there for.

Pro Tips for a Better Indoor Golf Booking Experience

Here are a few extra tips to make your booking and playing experience smoother:

Book early for weekends and evenings – Prime time fills up fast.
Look for loyalty programs – Frequent players often get discounts or free hours.
Plan your time wisely – A single player can complete 18 holes in 1.5 hours, but with 3–4 people, you’ll need 3+ hours.
Choose the right simulator – If you want advanced swing data, ask which system they use (e.g., TrackMan vs. SkyTrak).
Mix practice and fun – Many simulators also have mini-games, driving ranges, or longest-drive contests.

Final Thoughts

Booking an indoor golf simulator is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to enjoy golf. Whether you’re chasing lower scores, looking for a fun night out, or planning a group event, these simulators provide convenience, entertainment, and real performance benefits.

The process is simple: find a nearby venue, compare options, check availability, and book online or by phone. Before you know it, you’ll be teeing off at Pebble Beach, all without stepping outside.

If you’ve never tried it before, start with a short booking, bring a couple of friends, and enjoy the experience. Once you get a feel for it, you’ll likely want to make it part of your regular routine.

So go ahead—take the first step, find a venue near you, and book your next indoor golf simulator session today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to book an indoor golf simulator?

Most places charge by the hour, ranging from $30–$70 depending on location, time of day, and technology.

2. Do I need to bring my own clubs?

Yes, most players prefer using their own clubs for consistency. However, many venues rent clubs if you don’t have a set.

3. Can beginners use indoor golf simulators?

Absolutely! Simulators are beginner-friendly. Many even have tutorials, tips, and settings for new players.

4. How long does a session last?

It depends on the number of players and holes. One person can finish 18 holes in 1.5 hours, while four players may take 3–4 hours.

5. Are indoor golf simulators only for practice, or can they be fun too?

Both! You can practice your swing with detailed data, or enjoy fun game modes like closest-to-the-pin or virtual driving ranges with friends.