FAQs
Your Questions. Our Answers
Whether you’re curious about booking a bay, wondering about our simulator technology, or planning a group event, you’ll find the essential info right here. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our team is always happy to help—just give us a swing.
General
The Golf Learning Center is owned and operated by the Peoria Park District (PPD), ensuring a high-quality, community-focused experience for golfers of all skill levels. The District has partnered with Gopher Entertainment LLC for all food and beverage operations. PPD is also grateful to the State of Illinois and Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth for their work in securing funding to help update the facility and bring this exciting golf experience to Peoria.
The Golf Learning Center features:
- The Range: Traditional driving-range experience.
- The Bays: Semi-private, electronic-style hitting bays for groups and parties.
- The Loop: A 9-hole skills course for practicing approach shots, chipping, and putting.
- The Simulators: State-of-the-art indoor golf simulators available year-round.
- The 19th Hole: Private party room, conveniently located near The Bays and TheSimulators.
- Fairways: Enjoy a full-service restaurant on site. Dine in at Fairways or have food and drinks delivered right to your bay, simulator, or party room.
Yes! A detailed facility map is available here showing all the details on the GLC campus.
Absolutely! Bays 12–21 are on the lower level are fully accessible, and the facility includes accessible parking, entrances, and paths.
Yes! Guests are encouraged to mix and match experiences, such as practicing on The Range, playing a round at The Loop, enjoying The Bays, or trying The Simulators — completed with delicious food and beverage at Fairways.
Fore-sure! The Golf Learning Center is designed for golfers of all ages and skill levels, making it a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for families, friends, and groups.
Yes! Fairways is a full-service restaurant and bar. Food and drinks can be delivered to The Bays or The Simulators. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
For Fairways, The Bays and The Simulators, please check-in at the main entrance to Fairways. A bag drop is available outside the entrance. For traditional golf amenities, such as The Loop and The Range, please check in at the Starter Shack.
The Golf Learning Center offers on-site parking for all guests, including accessible spaces near the main entrance. Overflow parking is available at Kellogg Golf Course, just a short walk away. For safety and courtesy, please do not park on Radnor Road.
For the safety and comfort of all guests, pets are not permitted inside the Golf Learning Center, with the exception of service animals.
Absolutely! The Golf Learning Center is perfect for corporate outings, team-building events, and private tournaments. Multiple bays, simulators, and The 19th Hole can be reserved for large groups.
Yes! The indoor simulators, heated bays, and a full-service restaurant make it possible to enjoy golf and activities in any season.
The GLC campus includes many amenities that have varying hours of operation all year round. Please see each amenity, under Our Facilities for their current operational hours.
The Bays
Yes, we recommend reservations for The Bays to guarantee your spot—especially on weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Don’t get stuck in the rough! Book your bay online through the Golf Learning Center website. Walk-ups are welcome if space allows, but reserving online is the surest way to secure your spot.
We recommend reserving at least two hours—enough time to swing, laugh, and maybe even “par-tee” a little.
Each bay is set-up for a maximum of 4 golfers, though some bays can hold up to 8 people total if you have additional people that like to watch. Need more space? Multiple bays can be booked next to each other for larger parties. Just let us know your total “crew” when reserving.
Bays 12–21 are on the lower level and fully accessible. Bays 1–11 are on the upper level. And don’t worry—all bays are heated during the winter, so your swing won’t get “chilled.”
Clubs are provided at each bay, so you can just bring your game face! Please do not bring your own balls—we’ve got plenty ready for you to keep your shots “on par.”
Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but no need to “slice” your appetite! Fairways delivers food and drinks right to your bay, so you can snack and sip while keeping your eyes on the target.
Check in at Fairways before heading to your bay. Our Customer Ambassadors will help get you set up so you can start swinging and having fun right away!
Fore-sure! The Bays are a hole-in-one for families, friends, or coworkers looking to have fun together. Whether you’re a mini-pro or just here to swing for laughs, everyone can join in the action.
Not at this time. The Bays are all about fun, practice, and friendly competition—so grab a club, aim high, and enjoy!
The Range
No reservations are needed for The Range or The Loop—both operate on a walk-up basis.
The Range surrounds The Bays on both sides—west (across the bridge) and east. When The Bays are closed, mats will be set up in front of them to provide additional range access. Check out our facility map.
The Range is open daily, with hours that change seasonally. All hours are listed on The Range page or call ahead for the most up-to-date times.
Range balls can be purchased on site. Please check in at the Starter Shack to pay for The Range and The Loop. Seasonally, check-in will move inside Fairways, but check for signage when you arrive. During your check-in you’ll receive a code to the ball dispenser machine located near the Starter Shack.
Yes. Grass tees are available seasonally, and mats are provided for consistent access year-round. When The Bays are closed, mats are set up in front of them for added availability.
Yes; please bring your own clubs.
The Range is open as long as weather permits. During the colder months, The Bays provide heated, covered hitting areas to keep golfers practicing through the season.
Absolutely! Young golfers are welcome with adult supervision. The Range is a great place for families to learn and practice together.
Yes. Professional golf instruction is available through the Golf Learning Center. Visit our website for more information.
Follow posted signage and staff guidance. The Range has designated hitting areas on both the west and east sides of The Bays to make your practice easy and accessible.
Yes! The All-Inclusive PPD Golf Membership includes free daily range balls. Simply show your Golf Membership at the Starter Shack to redeem this benefit. Not a member? Join today!
The Loop
No reservations are needed for The Range or The Loop—both operate on a walk-up basis.
Pricing for The Loop and range balls is available on The Loop page and on The Range page.
The Loop is part of the Golf Learning Center and is located just steps away from The Bays and The Range. The Loop is west of the building, over the bridge, and to the right. Check out our facility map.
The Loop is open daily, with hours that change seasonally. All hours are listed on The Range page so please check the website or call ahead for the most up-to-date times.
Access to the loop can be purchased on site. Please check in at the Starter Shack to pay. Seasonally, check-in will move inside Fairways, but check for signage when you arrive.
Yes. Grass tees are available seasonally, and mats are provided for consistent access year-round. When The Bays are closed, mats are set up in front of them for added availability.
Yes; please bring your own clubs and golf balls.
The Loop is open as long as weather permits. During the colder months, The Bays provide heated, covered hitting areas to keep golfers practicing through the season.
Absolutely! Young golfers are welcome with adult supervision. The Loop is a great place for families to learn and practice together.
Yes. Professional golf instruction is available through the Golf Learning Center. Visit our website for more information.
Yes! All PPD Golf Members get access to The Loop for FREE! Simply show your Golf Membership at the Starter Shack to redeem this benefit. Not a member? Join today
No tee times are required for The Loop—play is first come, first served. During peak times, staff will help manage flow so everyone enjoys their round.
The Simulators
Reservations are recommended for our indoor simulators to ensure availability during your preferred time.
Don’t get stuck in the rough—book your simulator time online. Sessions are reserved by the hour, but we recommend at least two hours to really get into the swing of things.
Simulators are booked in hourly increments. On average, a full 18-hole virtual round takes 40–60 minutes per person. So, if you’ve got a foursome, plan a little extra time to avoid a “sudden death” finish.
Bring your own clubs and balls to feel right at home on the virtual fairways. Need gear? Rental clubs are available, and we provide balls if you’d rather travel light.
Not just yet—we’re keeping it simple with play-only access for now. Stay tuned, though… we’ve got some ideas up our sleeve that might be a real “game-changer.”
Absolutely! Larger parties can reserve both simulators for a shared experience. Perfect for birthday parties, work outings, or just proving to your friends who really drives the longest. Make sure to check out our party room at Fairways for the real VIP experience.
Start your round at the main entrance. Leave your clubs at the ball drop, then check in with a Customer Ambassador. From there, head to the simulator door on the west (parking lot) side—it’s the easiest way to bring in your gear without “putting” it through the restaurant.
Our Customer Ambassadors are here to make sure you’re on par from the very first swing. They’ll walk you through setup and answer any questions so you can focus on hitting the sweet spot.
Fore-sure! Our simulators are family-friendly and perfect for golfers of all ages. Kids, teens, and adults can all enjoy a round together—just be sure to watch those “mini-golf tantrums” from wayward shots!
Outside food and beverages aren’t allowed, but you can enjoy food and drinks from Fairways right in the simulator room, served by our attentive staff. Golf and snacks—a perfect “par-fect” combo!
Absolutely! Our simulators are a “hole-in-one” for birthday parties, team outings, or any special occasion. Book both simulators for larger groups and let the friendly competition begin.
Think relaxed, fun, and welcoming. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just here for laughs, our simulators are designed to give you a safe, comfortable, and social environment to practice or play.
Yes! The simulators and entrances are designed to be accessible for all players. If you have any special requests, our Customer Ambassadors are happy to assist.
Parties & Events
Don’t get stuck in the rough! Reservations can be made by contacting our team at at 309-690-7162. For larger groups, booking in advance ensures your spot and allows us to coordinate golf experiences, food, and drinks seamlessly.
Absolutely! The room can be closed off for a completely private experience — perfect for birthdays, team outings, or business meetings.
Yes! The 19th Hole is equipped with a TV for presentations, slideshows, or video calls, making it ideal for meetings or corporate events.
Definitely! The 19th Hole has a garage door for easy access to The Bays, The Range, or The Loop for a seamless golf party experience. It’s also located next to The Simulators, perfect for year-round fun.
Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but don’t worry — Fairways delivers food and drinks right to your room. From appetizers to full meals and beverages for all ages, we’ve got your celebration covered.
Fore-sure! The 19th Hole is perfect for families, friends, or coworkers looking to have fun together. Whether you’re swinging for laughs or celebrating a milestone, everyone can join in the action.
Yes! For larger celebrations, multiple bays or simulators can be reserved alongside The 19th Hole for a full group experience.
Yes! All bays are heated during colder months, ensuring your party can swing comfortably no matter the weather.
Food & Drink
Fairways does not take reservations for general dining. However, groups of six or more are encouraged to call ahead to check seating availability.
Yes! You can choose from cozy indoor seating or enjoy the fresh air on our outdoor patio.
Carry-out service is coming soon, so you’ll be able to enjoy Fairways’ Lowcountry-inspired menu from the comfort of home.
Yes! Fairways has a private party room, perfect for birthdays, business gatherings, and celebrations.
Guests can enjoy a variety of food and beverages at Fairways, our on-site full-service restaurant and bar. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, Fairways has something to satisfy your cravings.
While there’s no formal dress code, we recommend wearing comfortable attire suitable for both dining and golfing activities.
Yes! You can order directly from Fairways, and our friendly staff will deliver your selections right to your bay or simulator, allowing you to enjoy your meal without missing a swing.
Fairways strives to accommodate various dietary needs. Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary preferences, and we’ll do our best to provide suitable options.
