Travelers will soon be able to tee off and take off at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The PGA of America and Wexford Golf, a Twin Cities golf development firm, have collaborated to debut PGA MSP Airport; an interactive golf concept.

The first such concept of its kind located in a U.S. airport, PGA MSP anticipates a March 2015 opening. Billed as a “golf lifestyle facility,” it will feature retail, food and beverage and a hands-on golf experience with lounge.

Wexford Golf’s Joel Burger said the PGA MSP layout, encompassing more than 12,000 square feet, will enable golfers of all ages and skill levels to play dozens of the world’s top courses on industry leading simulators, receive instruction from PGA Professionals and get custom fit for clubs. Golfers interested in a practice session can sharpen their putting on the practice green and fine tune their swing at the virtual driving range.

“The focus of PGA MSP is to engage both existing and new golfers in a fun and unintimidating environment staffed by the best in the business, PGA Professionals,” said Burger.

Pete Bevacqua, Chief Executive Officer of the PGA of America, welcomed the opportunity that PGA MSP offers for an airport that serves more than 35 million passengers per year.

“The PGA of America is very excited about the opportunities that this innovative facility presents to beginning golfers and to those who we want to return to the game,” said Bevacqua. “PGA MSP not only offers a fascinating golf experience for the busy traveler but also aligns with the PGA’s long-term Strategic Plan to grow this wonderful game.”

In addition to golf, Champions’ Grille by Ike’s Food and Cocktail, operated by global restaurateur HMSHost, will serve Classic American Cuisine in an 84-seat bar which is an extension of their award-winning Ike’s concept. Food and beverage will be available to patrons throughout the entire facility.
“We are thrilled to be part of this one-of-a-kind golf experience and restaurant,” said Frank Sickelsmith, Vice President of Adult Beverage and Restaurant Development at HMSHost. “We look forward to adding a new dimension to this unique dining experience at MSP International Airport.”

Among the offerings at PGA MSP, said Burger, is serving as a showcase for the latest golf clubs from major manufacturers for use at no charge and day passes for non-flying golfers are available in advance. Customers also will be able to shop for their favorite apparel and accessories in the Golf Shop which will feature PGA Championship and Ryder Cup logoed merchandise.

Eric Johnson, Director of Commercial Management and Airline Affairs for the Metropolitan Airports Commission sees PGA MSP providing a wide range of golf and entertainment for travelers with extra time at the airport. “MAC is very excited to welcome this truly unique one-of-a-kind passenger experience to MSP. Passengers can enjoy top-notch food and beverage offered at Champions’ Grille by Ike’s as well as swinging some of the newest golf clubs on the market in the high-tech simulators.

The PGA MSP facility is located in a region boasting a rich championship golf tradition. Five PGA Championships have been hosted in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area since 1932. In September 2016, the PGA of America hosts the 41st Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota.

PGA MSP is located in Terminal 1 at the north end of the MSP Airport Mall, where a majority of the passengers must pass by en route to their final destination. The facility is situated on the second floor, just inside TSA Security, above Starbucks, Ike’s and French Meadow Bakery.

Travelers can access the golf experience and lounge starting at $10 while there is no charge to visit the Golf Shop or Champions’ Grille.

For more information, visit www.PGAmsp.com