Grass Clippings, a Phoenix-area golf course, is revolutionizing the traditional golfing experience by combining private-club-caliber conditioning with stadium lights to allow for play deep into the night. The course, renamed Rolling Hills after being leased by Grass Clippings in 2022, offers a unique experience for golfers looking to enjoy the game at unconventional hours and in a more relaxed setting. With the installation of 80 stadium-style LED light towers, the course now hosts night-time golf sessions on an 18-hole par-3 tees-and-greens footprint, attracting players who may not have the opportunity to golf during the day.
The addition of lights has significantly increased the number of rounds played at Rolling Hills, projecting to reach 60,000 rounds this year compared to the 40,000 rounds typically played at the course under conventional conditions. This boost in revenue allows Grass Clippings to focus on providing a premium experience for players, including food, drink, and entertainment options. The increased play during the night hours has not only benefitted the course financially but has also attracted high-profile guests such as NBA star Steph Curry, showcasing the success of the night-golf concept.
The strategic location of Rolling Hills near a highway, the local zoo, and Arizona State University’s football stadium has contributed to the course’s popularity, providing a unique backdrop for night-time golf and entertainment. Grass Clippings has partnered with Musco, a lighting company, to design LED towers that direct light to specific spots, minimizing light pollution and allowing for the hosting of events such as food trucks and concerts. This attention to detail and commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere sets Grass Clippings apart from traditional golf courses.
In addition to the lights and night-time activities, Grass Clippings’ expansion plans include renovating the ninth hole, building a larger patio, expanding the putting green, and incorporating ball-tracking technology on the driving range. These enhancements aim to attract a wider audience to the game of golf by offering a more casual and social experience. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and creating a welcoming environment for all types of golfers, Grass Clippings is setting a new standard for golf course operations.
The success of Grass Clippings’ innovative approach to golf operations serves as a testament to the changing landscape of the golf industry, where younger generations seek more interactive and social experiences on the course. By embracing technology, entertainment, and customer-centric strategies, Grass Clippings has positioned itself as a leader in modernizing the traditional golf experience. As the demand for unique and engaging recreational activities continues to grow, Grass Clippings’ forward-thinking business model is poised to shape the future of golf course operations across the country.
