Dallas is a big city. It’s full of culture, food, things to see and do. I’ve spent some time here, but it’s mostly been work related. My golf experience is minimal. One of our writers has played a bit in the DFW area but, he’s only scratched the surface.
I’ve known for years that Dallas is a great golf town and that’s why I wanted to write a guide about the ten best public courses. So, I reached out to our readers and true to form, they came through in a big way with their thoughts about the best public tracks.
So, without further ado, off we go.
If you’re flying into DFW International, you can be on the first tee in minutes at Riverchase Golf Club. It’s only ten minutes away.
Despite its convenient location, locals call this course “one of the city’s best kept secrets.”
Water comes into play on 14 holes, so you’d better shoot straight from tee to green.
The fairways are Champion Bermuda, and you won’t find a bad lie if you keep it in the short stuff.
Even though this course isn’t long, it forces you to stay focused on every shot. Anything but a bomber’s paradise.
It sounds like this is also a great spot to grab a bite to eat, a Lonestar beer, and watch a game. The 700 Bar and Grill has a delectable menu and seven 65” HD televisions.
At around $50 for 18 holes and a cart during peak times, this place is great value.
This track was designed for people to have fun out on the course. The tale of two nines is what you’ll find at Coyote Ridge.
Even though you’re a long way from the ocean, the front nine will remind you of a seaside links. Open, rolling fairways provide adequate room off the tee, but strong breezes can make calculating the right distance a challenge.
Buckle up on the back nine as it’s much tighter. Holes twist and turn along an old gravel quarry that’s beautifully landscaped with native grasses, wildflowers, and oak trees.
Plenty of opportunities for risk and reward can make or break your round out here.
One of the premier public courses in the metroplex and an experience that will keep you coming back.
Golfweek called Tangle Ridge the “44th Best Municipal in America.” From everything I’ve heard, it’s more than deserving of such high praise.
This track is reminiscent of some of the best hill country layouts in the state. Elevation changes and beautiful views can be found throughout.
Designed by Jeff Brauer, Tangle Ridge is both fun and challenging. No matter what set of tees you play, you’ll use every club in your bag.
The course is known for especially penal bunkers and there’s no shortage of them. Keep it in the green stuff and you’ll be just fine.
Plenty of character and always in excellent condition, this course is one of the best in the DFW area.
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Ray Hubbard, you’ll find wide fairways and gentle slopes at Buffalo Creek Golf Club.
Just a short 30-minute drive from downtown, this Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish design will challenge the best players with a wide variety of holes and excellent shot values.
If you play here in the afternoon, expect the wind to blow. This can make for some exciting shots and difficult club selection.
Even though the course is demanding and a bit on the longer side, multiple tee boxes make it playable for everyone.
You’ll feel like a country club member when you come play at Bridlewood Golf Club. This D.A. Weibring design is immaculately kept and provides a fun round of golf that will keep you on your toes.
Located in the suburb of Flower Mound, there are ample trees and countless water hazards that not only add to the course’s aesthetic appeal, but challenge you on every shot. How much water are we talking about? Some 25 acres to be exact, not to mention Timber Creek which comes into play on the back 9.
There’s no detail that gets overlooked at Bridlewood. The staff are knowledgeable, eager to serve, and take great pride in their facility.
When you’re done with your round, chances are you’ll be hungry. Be sure to order a pie from Barbo’s pizza. The locals say it’s some of the best in town.
Just 35 minutes from downtown Dallas, Mansfield National is a golfer’s dream.
Set amongst the rolling hills of Mansfield, this John Colligan design features tree lined fairways, and has plenty of character.
The Tiff Dwarf Bermuda greens are renowned for being some of the truest in the area.
Steer clear of Low Branch Creek as it comes into play on a number holes and can wreck your scorecard in a hurry.
If you’re looking for a picturesque round of golf that’s both challenging and enjoyable, put Mansfield National at the top of your list.
Designed by PGA Tour legend, Don January, Grand Oaks is set on a naturally secluded tract of land. You won’t hear the hustle and bustle of the city when you tee it up here. Instead, you’ll find a tranquil, idyllic setting in which to enjoy your round.
Having recently undergone a substantial renovation, the course now features five sets of tees, and has been restored to its original design. Expect a fair but fun challenge from tee to green.
Once you get to the green, you’ll have the chance to show your creativity as false fronts and runoffs guard the putting surfaces.
One of the best kept secrets in the area, Grand Oaks is a course you’ll want to play again.
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best deals in the area, look no further than Duck Creek Golf Club.
Designed by Michael Hurzdan, this layout has narrow, tree lined fairways, and small greens. Precision is a must if you’re going to get around here in a reasonable number of strokes.
Be wary of Duck Creek which comes into play throughout the course and adds to the parkland beauty that’s to be found.
Looking to take your game to the next level? The Player Develop Program is hard to beat. Seasoned PGA Professionals are ready to help you with every aspect of the game.
A great value and memorable experience.
Another Don January creation, Pecan Hollow opened its doors in 1973.
Known for its fast greens and pristine conditions, this track remains a staple on the Dallas golf scene to this day.
The design is classic old Texas. Oak trees line the fairways and doglegs ask you to work the ball both ways.
Green complexes are small and well-guarded by bunkers. Make sure to stay below the hole if you want a good look at birdie.
Don’t miss out on a post round meal in the spacious Grill. The menu is diverse and the prices are more than fair.
Great golf meets the best value in the DFW metroplex at Brickyard Golf Course.
Situated on the old site of the Ferris Brick Company, this course has plenty of elevation changes that keep you guessing which club to pull.
Mounds, humps, and bumps are the norm out here so be ready to play some shots off uneven lies.
For as much play as this course gets, it’s always in great shape.
Not hard to see why it’s been voted the best course in Ellis County.
It’s apparent that there’s so much good golf in the Dallas area that there’s not enough room on our list to highlight every course.
You can bet I’ve put Dallas golf on my radar and will surely take advantage next time in town, even if I have to blow off work for a couple afternoons.
As always, I extend a sincere thank you to our readers that made this article possible. I couldn’t do it without you.
If I missed one of your favorite tracks on this list, share your thoughts in the comments below.
