Brewery tasting rooms have traditionally been known for hosting a variety of activities such as trivia night, live music, and yoga classes to bring people together. However, in 2024, a new trend is emerging in the brewery scene – the introduction of golf simulators. With beer sales experiencing a slight decline and tasting rooms looking for ways to generate additional income, breweries across the country are incorporating high-tech entertainment options to attract customers.
One such example is AleSmith Brewing Company, which recently announced the installation of two Pro 2.0 Full Swing Golf Simulators at its Miramar, California tasting room. These cutting-edge simulators, which can also be used for soccer, football, and dodgeball, can accommodate up to 15 patrons at a time. The cost to rent the Pro 2.0 Full Swing Golf Simulators is $65 per hour, making it a premium experience for brewery visitors. AleSmith’s president, Brandon Richards, expressed excitement about the innovation, stating that it aligns with the brewery’s commitment to providing top-tier entertainment options for its patrons.
The trend of incorporating golf simulators is not limited to urban breweries. Dogleg Brewing Company in Vista, California, has positioned itself as a “golf themed brewery” and offers a simulator that can be rented for a maximum of one hour a day. Similarly, Hubbleton Brewing Company in Waterloo, Wisconsin, a smaller brewery with a population of 3,300, has also invested in a Carl’s Place hitting screen and GSPro software. The popularity of the golf simulator at Hubbleton has been evident, with weekends being the busiest times for its use.
Brewery owners like Dan Schaey of Hubbleton Brewing Company have noted the positive impact of golf simulators on their businesses. In addition to providing an engaging experience for patrons, the introduction of simulators has helped increase beer sales during slower months. Schaey’s plan to add a second screen reflects the growing demand for this interactive form of entertainment in brewery tasting rooms.
Beer and golf have long been associated with each other, with many golfers enjoying a cold drink while on the course. By bringing golf simulators directly to the tasting room, breweries are capitalizing on this connection and providing a unique experience for their customers. The ability to work on one’s swing or enjoy a full game of golf while sipping on craft beer is a winning combination that appeals to a wide range of individuals.
The rise of golf simulators in brewery tasting rooms represents a shift towards offering innovative and engaging experiences to customers. As breweries seek to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, the incorporation of high-tech entertainment options like golf simulators is proving to be a successful strategy. By tapping into the intersection of beer and golf culture, breweries are not only attracting new customers but also enhancing the overall customer experience.