A Big Swing for Indian Trails
Grand Rapids officials are considering a $15–$20 million plan to revamp Indian Trails Golf Course with a modern, year-round indoor golf and entertainment venue. The proposed development, located at 2776 Kalamazoo Ave SE, would bring high-tech golf simulators, private hitting bays, a restaurant, and a bar to the site—all while keeping the traditional 9- and 18-hole outdoor courses.
What’s Being Proposed?
The concept includes a two-story facility with sliding glass doors and both indoor and outdoor hitting bays. Modeled after Indiana’s PrairieFire Golf & Grill, the venue would offer golf in any season, with simulated gameplay options and a comfortable social setting for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Bay rentals could range from $17 to $65 per hour. Traditional golf pricing may also see a slight bump, with average round costs expected to rise from $28.13 to $29.55.
Why Now?
According to David Marquardt, the city’s parks and recreation director, golf operations at Indian Trails are already seeing steady growth. The course is projected to generate $1.3 million in revenue in 2025. With the entertainment center in place, projections climb to $2.1 million.
“We’re doing well,” Marquardt said. “This is about sustaining growth and offering more.”
Infrastructure Still Needs Help
Regardless of whether the entertainment venue moves forward, Indian Trails is overdue for basic improvements. Marquardt told commissioners the course needs between $4 million and $10 million in upgrades just to maintain its current facilities. Overflow parking is a common issue on summer weekends, and the clubhouse is due for renovation.
A Boost for Local Business
The project is about more than just golf. A feasibility study projects the facility could bring in 135,000 additional visitors each year. That kind of traffic could mean a boost for local restaurants, retailers, and other nearby businesses.
“This could have a $126 million local impact over the next decade,” Marquardt noted.
Looking Ahead: 2028 Opening?
If the project advances as planned, the entertainment center could open in 2028—marking the 100th anniversary of Indian Trails Golf Course.
“Our city manager challenged us to think bigger,” Marquardt said. “Now we’ve got a vision we believe in—and the data says it’s possible.”
The Bottom Line
The plan is still in the early stages, with further design work and city deliberation to come. But one thing is clear: Grand Rapids is exploring how to bring year-round golf—and a major local attraction—to the southeast side.
Stay Tuned
As plans for Indian Trails take shape, we’ll be keeping an eye on every step—from approvals to construction updates. Stay tuned with Grand Rapids Neighborhoods for the latest on this project and everything happening around the city.
Sources
WOODTV – FOX17Online – MLive