Fort Atkinson’s newest golf simulator bar, PaddyShack Golf and Gaming Lounge, is Thrive Economic Development’s Small Business Excellence award winner. The family-owned establishment was recognized for its community focused offerings, which include golf simulators, an arcade and a bar and restaurant.

Owners Erin and Mitch Patterson brought the concept to life as a country club-meets-neighborhood hangout, aligning with Erin’s belief that local spaces should bring people together, said Shauna Wessely, executive director of the Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce.

“PaddyShack is not simply a business; it is an infusion of energy into downtown Fort Atkinson,” said Wessely. “Creativity is at the heart of Erin’s approach to business. The vision behind PaddyShack – a quirky, welcoming blend of golf simulators, arcade fun and casual dining – demonstrates her ability to reimagine what a community space can be.”

Opened in 2024, PaddyShack occupies a space at 201 S. Main St. in downtown Fort Atkinson. The business opened after the building’s former owner-occupant Humphrey Floral announced it would sell the building in 2022. The Pattersons purchased the building, remodeled it over two years and opened PaddyShack in 2024. The establishment expanded their local footprint, adding to their existing businesses including Paddy Coughlin’s Pub, 10-62 Saloon and a nonprofit animal shelter called Paddy’s Paws.

PaddyShack offers two TrackMan golf simulator bays, arcade games for kids and adults, a food menu and full-service bar. It also runs a two-season golf league, held in summer and fall/winter, as well as private event space for birthday parties, cocktail hours and corporate events.

Erin is also a supporter of the Fort Atkinson community and helped bring back the community music festival, Rhythm on the River, and inaugurated the first Fall Festival.

TrackMan golf simulators at PaddyShack.