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For some golf pros or enthusiasts, teeing off at Pebble Beach in California is a dream they hope will become a reality one day. But at Max’s Swing Lounge in Springfield, they can do just that … virtually.
Located within the Basketball Hall of Fame, the golf, bar and dining atmosphere is like no other in the area.
Equipped with nine indoor TrackMan golf simulators, Max’s Swing Lounge provides a premier and realistic golfing experience for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner.
The TrackMan has a library with over 300 courses to choose from, from around the world, while the simulators offer exact data and engaging gameplay, shared John Thomas, managing partner of Max’s Tavern.
For those looking to play regularly or compete, Max’s Swing Lounge has memberships and golf leagues. Thomas said they have offered nine-week leagues and plan to continue doing that, offering two leagues a month.
For Valentine’s Day, Thomas shared that they will be offering a Valentine’s Day Couples League, which makes for the perfect date night.
Members of Max’s Swing Lounge receive exclusive benefits such as discounted rates, priority booking for simulators, special events access and more. For membership information, visit maxswinglounge.com/membership.
In addition to the leagues and membership options, Marissa Crow, a PGA pro, will be offering lessons and clinics for those looking to improve their game. Thomas noted that information regarding lessons and clinics can also be found on their website.
The golf bays can be rented out for small groups, as well as for corporate or holiday parties, fundraisers and more. The space can accommodate groups as small as five, up to 150.
To rent a bay, it costs $65 an hour. For a larger bay, it is $85 an hour. Thomas noted that the cost is per bay, not per person.
He added that for two people, it takes about two hours to play 18 holes.
Golfers can bring their own clubs or rent them on site.
Further attractions of the lounge include a fully stocked bar and food courtesy of Max’s Tavern.
Thomas described the eatery side of the lounge as a “sports bar” vibe.
“We want it to be a hometown feel,” he added. In his opinion, it is “the best” bar in the area.
The space is filled with multiple tables, high tops and of course, the bar. There is also apparel available for purchase, including hats and shirts embroidered with “Max’s Swing Lounge.”
Private parties can be hosted within the lounge, for special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays, to name a few.
In the case of inclement weather, indoor parking is available in the parking garage beneath the Hall of Fame. Patrons can park there and take the elevator up to the lounge.
Max’s Swing Lounge officially opened to the public on Nov. 15, 2024. Since opening, Thomas said business has been “a little better than expected.”
Scott Smith, president of Max Hospitality, noted that he has seen some “serious golfers” utilize the new space. This includes people as young as 2 to 3 years old, up to people in their 70s and 80s swinging the club. “You don’t have to be a certain age,” Thomas said.
While indoor golf simulators such as Topgolf seem to be becoming more popular and opening across the country, Smith shared that the “competition” was considered. He referenced the nearby Topgolf Swing Suite at MGM Springfield and said when people visit MGM, they are there for the weekend and utilize the swing suite as a “good way to fill time.” However, at Max’s Swing Lounge, people are visiting the attraction for the day or evening.
He also noted that they created “extra-large bays” to accommodate larger crowds.
Thomas described Max’s Swing Lounge as more of a “party atmosphere” based on its amenities.
MAX’S SWING LOUNGE IS LOCATED AT 1000 HALL OF FAME AVE.,
SPRINGFIELD. HOURS ARE MONDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, 11 A.M. TO 9 P.M.;
FRIDAY, 11 A.M. TO 10 P.M.; SATURDAY, 9 A.M. TO 10 P.M. AND SUNDAY, 9 A.M. TO 8 P.M.
IT CAN BE FOUND ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM, AS WELL AS ONLINE AT MAXSWINGLOUNGE.COM