Grand Rapids Explores Golf Entertainment Complex Proposal

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The city of Grand Rapids is evaluating a proposal to develop a Topgolf-style golf entertainment venue at the Indian Trails Golf Course, featuring both indoor and outdoor hitting bays along with simulators for year-round golfing activities.

This planned facility aims to enhance the offerings at Indian Trails Golf Course, located at 2776 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, which already includes a 9-hole and an 18-hole course, a driving range, and a putting green.

According to David Marquardt, the city’s parks and recreation director, the development would have an estimated cost of up to $20 million, potentially financed through a bond, with a completion goal set for 2028 to coincide with the golf course’s 100-year anniversary.

Marquardt introduced the idea during the committee of the whole meeting on March 25, detailing a two-story structure consisting of private hitting bays that would provide players with a real targeted range for practice and play.

The proposed facility is expected to feature comfortable seating, sliding glass doors, and gaming simulations for year-round accessibility. There are also plans for a restaurant and bar to cater to visitors, Marquardt mentioned.

To provide a visual reference, Marquardt shared images of the PrairieFire Golf & Grill in Indiana, which offers a similar concept. Rental fees for the bays could range from $17 to $65 per hour, which aligns with current regional pricing for golf range and simulator facilities.

Marquardt emphasized that the proposed entertainment center could serve as a significant attraction for the region, with projections suggesting that it could draw approximately 135,000 additional visitors annually and generate around $126 million in economic impact over ten years. Despite the excitement surrounding the proposal, it was noted that the existing Indian Trails facilities require between $4 million and $10 million in upgrades to improve infrastructure.