Virtual Golf Coming To MSP Airport
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - Soon you'll be able to drive before you fly at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
That's because the PGA of America, Wexford Golf and the Metropolitan Airports Commission have teamed up to create a new virtual golf facility at MSP.
"We have been working on this project actively for the last five-and-a-half years," said Joel Burger, president of Wexford Golf, a Twin Cities golf development firm. "This is a first-of-its-kind facility."
The space will be located at the north of end of Terminal 1, above the French Meadow Bakery. The 12,000 square foot facility will have two panoramic simulators, a virtual driving range and a full-size putting green, and it will only cost $10.
It will be staffed with PGA professionals who can instruct passengers on how to improve their swing. Golfers can get custom-fitted clubs shipped anywhere they like, or hand-delivered in the Twin Cities.
In addition to the golf amenities, Champions Grille, by Ike's Food and Cocktail, will setup next door with an 84-seat bar.
Burger said it was challenging getting the golf clubs into the airport since the TSA has strict regulations on the equipment.
"We're not only looking to engage with golfers that are traveling," said Burger. "We're looking to reach out to people who have an interest in golf."
In September of 2016, the PGA of America will host the 41st Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska.
MSP gets 35 million travelers a year.