When you join the AMA , some of your dues goes toward liability insurance. Most clubs require this membership/coverage before you can fly at their facilities.
I'm betting that there's a club near you with a field and instructors willing to help you.
Flying these things is harder than it looks for a beginner, regardless of previous related experience (including simulator time).
Best advice -- find that club, go meet the guys. See what they recommend for getting started. That may not be the ONLY way, but it's likely the best way to start.