Best Golf Courses in Columbus

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

If you’re a golf fan and you hear about Columbus, Ohio, you probably recognize the city as the birthplace of the Golf Bear, Jack Nicklaus.  And yes, it’s also home to “The” Ohio State University, Nicklaus’ alma mater.

While Columbus is home to more than its fair share of famous names, it’s a place to find some great public golf.

I’ve never been in Columbus but many of our readers have.  Some even call the city home.  As such, it’s with their help that I’ve compiled a list of the best public tracks you and I can play.

When you step onto the grounds of the Golf Club of Dublin, you’ll immediately sense the exceptional playability and scenic beauty that make it a standout golf course in the Columbus area. Located in the lovely suburb of Dublin, this course offers a meticulously designed layout that challenges and rewards golfers of all skill levels. The well-maintained fairways and greens, coupled with the stunning landscaping, create an inviting atmosphere for a round of golf.

The Golf Club of Dublin is highly regarded for its amenities and facilities, providing everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the course. The friendly and attentive staff further enhance the overall experience, ensuring that every visit is met with exceptional service.

Golfers at the Golf Club of Dublin can expect a strategic and challenging layout that takes full advantage of the natural surroundings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this course offers an opportunity to test your skills while enjoying the beauty of the Ohio State University Golf Courses.

If you’re seeking a top-tier golfing experience in Columbus, the Dublin Golf Club is a must-visit destination.

 

New Albany Links Golf Club offers golfers a well-designed and challenging course, complemented by excellent course conditions and friendly, professional service from the staff.

Located in New Albany, the club provides a top-notch golfing experience with its meticulously maintained grounds and attention to detail. The club’s amenities and facilities cater to the needs of golfers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Additionally, New Albany Links Golf Club offers a range of practice facilities, allowing golfers to work on their game and improve their skills. The club’s commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service sets it apart as a standout destination for golf enthusiasts in the area.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, New Albany Links Golf Club promises a memorable and rewarding experience on the course.

• Impeccably maintained grounds
• Welcoming and professional staff
• Comprehensive practice facilities

 

 

If you’re ready to explore another top-notch golf club near Columbus, head to Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala, where well-manicured fairways and a challenging layout await.

This public golf course offers golfers a fantastic opportunity to test their skills. The course is known for its scenic beauty, with water hazards and bunkers strategically placed to provide a thrilling and challenging round of golf.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Pro Shop are always ready to assist, ensuring a seamless experience from the moment you arrive. Cumberland Trail Golf Club offers great value for money, making it a popular choice for golf enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this course near Columbus is sure to provide an enjoyable and memorable experience.

 

   

Nestled in the scenic suburb of Delaware, just a short drive from Columbus, Delaware Golf Club offers golfers a scenic and challenging course surrounded by natural beauty. This Donald Ross design is a gem and has been a favorite among golf enthusiasts for years.

The club’s well-maintained fairways and greens, coupled with strategic bunkers and water hazards, provide an exciting and dynamic game for players of all skill levels. You’ll find the friendly and attentive staff to be excellent, enhancing the overall golfing experience.

Delaware Golf Club also offers good value for money, with affordable green fees and well-maintained practice facilities. As a premier golfing destination near Columbus, the club provides a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.

The course’s beautiful natural setting and amenities make it a must-visit for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding game of golf.

• Immerse yourself in the picturesque and challenging course design by Donald Ross.
• Engage in an exciting and dynamic game suitable for players of all skill levels.
• Enjoy the friendly and attentive staff, providing excellent service to enhance your golfing experience.

Conveniently situated in the beautiful town of Delaware, just a short distance from Columbus, Glenross Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque and challenging course surrounded by natural beauty. This gem of a course is widely regarded as one of the best public golf courses in the Columbus area. Designed by the renowned architect, Trent Jones, Glenross Golf Club boasts well-manicured fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and bunkers that present a challenging yet rewarding layout for golfers of all levels.

One of the standout features of Glenross Golf Club is its meticulously maintained green complexes, which add an extra layer of challenge to the game. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the club ensure that every golfer has a welcoming and accommodating experience. Moreover, the club offers good value for money, making it an accessible and enjoyable option for golfers seeking a high-quality golfing experience without breaking the bank.

With its picturesque setting and well-maintained facilities, Glenross Golf Club is an ideal choice for a round of golf, offering an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts.

Found in the delightful countryside of Pickerington, Turnberry Golf Course offers golfers a captivating and challenging experience with its well-maintained fairways and greens. The course provides a beautiful and challenging layout for golfers, making it one of the best public golf courses in Columbus.

The kind and knowledgeable staff add to the overall experience, ensuring that every visit is enjoyable and memorable. Additionally, Turnberry Golf Course offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for golf enthusiasts looking for a top-notch experience without breaking the bank.

The course’s well-maintained facilities and practice areas allow players to hone their skills while enjoying the serene surroundings. Turnberry Golf Course is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional golfing experience in Columbus, whether they’re locals or visitors to the area. It’s a true gem among the country club options in the region.

 

Tucked away in the heart of Columbus, Safari Golf Club stands out as a beautiful and welcoming course for golfers of all skill levels. This course is known for its forgiving layout and limited water hazards, making it an ideal choice for players looking for a less intimidating environment. The professional and friendly staff at Safari Golf Club ensures a pleasant experience for every golfer, adding to the game’s overall enjoyment.

One of the standout features of Safari Golf Club is the well-maintained spacing between groups, which contributes to a relaxed and enjoyable round of golf. The course offers interesting lines and greens, providing an engaging experience for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, Safari Golf Club has something to offer.

With its scenic setting and player-friendly design, Safari Golf Club provides a delightful golfing experience that’s hard to come by. If you’re looking for a course that strikes a balance between challenge and playability, Safari Golf Club is definitely worth considering for your next round.

The bent grass playing surfaces at Royal American Links are to die for.  Regulars say there’s hardly a bad lie anywhere on the course. 

Set in the countryside northeast of Columbus, you’ll find yourself far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life when you venture out to this facility. 

While the course can be a bear from the tips, it’s playable for everyone thanks to multiple tee options. 

Make sure you carve out some to take in everything the 27,000 square foot clubhouse has to offer.  The joint resembles a Scottish castle and has to be seen to be believed.

Clover Valley was built on 240 pristine acres of wooded countryside.  An idyllic site indeed.

While the fairways and landing areas are expansive, the bunkers and hazards are never too far offline.  Play aggressive but make smart decisions. 

If you play here in the afternoon, expect the winds to kick up.  This can make club selection a challenge.

Once you’re on the dance floor, you can make some putts as these greens are some of the finest in the state. 

A memorable round, chances are you’ll want to play Clover Valley again.

 

Bent Tree Golf Club is considered one of the premier courses in the Columbus area.  That’s saying something since there are so many to choose from. 

The layout spans more than 167 acres and every hole feels like it exists on its own.  This affords a quiet, tranquil round of golf.

Bent Tree was designed by Dennis Griffiths.  His creation is considered to be a work of art by many, not just another golf course. 

Bunkers and water hazards dot this course.  While they can be penal, they also help to frame holes in a way that leaves little question where you’re supposed to hit it.

A locals’ favorite for years, this place sounds like a must play.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that Columbus is alive with things to see and do.  Between one of the nation’s most iconic universities, a lively downtown, and a plethora of quality choices for public golf, you won’t ever be bored in this city.

Having learned what I know now, I’m thinking a trip to Columbus needs to happen soon.

I continue to be floored by all the help I receive from our readers when I ask for it to write these guides.  There’s no question I’ve left a few courses off this list.  If you agree, feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments.