How One Entrepreneur Opened a Thriving Indoor Golf Business in Arizona Using GOLFZON
When it comes to starting a golf simulator business, inspiration can strike in unexpected places. For the founder of Stinger’s Golf Club in Arizona, Tyler Wilson, it started with a canceled tee time in Chicago that eventually turned into one of the most unique virtual golf businesses in the Southwest.
From Real Estate to Real Golf
Before diving into the golf simulator business, the owner of Stinger’s had a background in real estate, shipping, and mailbox rentals. Looking for something more dynamic, he envisioned combining food, drink, and entertainment. That vision crystallized after a trip to a GOLFZON facility in Chicago. A lightning storm cut a golf round short, prompting his friend to suggest trying indoor golf instead. That was the entrepreneur’s first exposure to GOLFZON’s commercial indoor golf simulator—and it sparked a new business plan.
Launching Stinger’s: The Arizona Advantage
Stinger’s opened in June 2024 and quickly gained traction, especially during Arizona’s scorching summers. The climate turned out to be a major business advantage. While most indoor golf simulator businesses see a surge during the winter, Stinger’s thrives in the summer months when it’s too hot to play outdoors. “It’s almost the inverse of what most simulator facilities experience,” he said.
The venue features:
- Six state-of-the-art GOLFZON commercial golf simulator bays
- A full restaurant and bar
- Takeout, catering services, and private event hosting
- Thriving leagues (1- to 3-player scrambles) and weekly contests
From burgers to putting challenges, Stinger’s offers something for every golfer.
Why GOLFZON?
After testing multiple systems, the choice was clear. The gameplay on GOLFZON simulators felt far closer to real golf than anything else I tried.
- True putting with undulation
- Automatic tee-up
- Realistic turf interaction
- GOLFZON’s moving swing plate
…put GOLFZON miles ahead of competitors for best commercial golf simulator performance.
Overcoming Restaurant Startup Challenges
Adding a restaurant added complexity, especially during the buildout phase. Working with kitchen designers, equipment vendors, and contractors extended the process to nearly eight months. But by opening day—just 24 hours after receiving the city approval —they were ready.
Although the restaurant element was new, the owner leaned into his strength: exceptional customer service. “Learning to run the kitchen was the hardest part, but now we’ve got a solid handle on it,” he said.
Building Community Through Memberships & Merch
Presale memberships were a key driver in building early loyalty. The facility also partnered with Devereux Golf for custom Stingers-themed apparel—think scorpions, cacti, and desert vibes—to connect with local fans and golfers alike.
Each week, customers can join contests like closest to the pin, long drive, and a popular putting green challenge with prizes like Diamondbacks tickets.
Tips for Starting a Golf Simulator Business
When asked what advice he’d give to others starting an indoor golf business, he said:
- Presell memberships early – Lock in recurring revenue and loyal customers.
- Have food & beverage experience – Or partner with someone who does.
- Know your local market – Understand commercial golf simulator prices and what amenities will set you apart.
- Focus on customer service – That’s what turns a one-time visitor into a regular.
If you’re interested in how to start a golf simulator business or building your own golf simulator business model, the Stinger’s story is a powerful example of how passion, preparation, and the right technology (like GOLFZON) can lead to success.
Watch the full video interview here.