Best Golf Courses in Nashville TN

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

If you’ve read our course guide for the state of Tennessee, you know I love the Volunteer State.  You might recall I mentioned a trip to Nashville that I don’t remember much about.  That was a long time ago and golf wasn’t the priority – we don’t need to rehash it.

I’ve since tempered my ways and visited Nashville a couple of times post hangover.  While work has been involved, I’ve made it a point to check out the golf scene too.  And I’ve got to say, it’s impressive.

Still, I’m not exactly an expert by any means.  Curious to hear from the real boots on the ground, I reached out to our readers to get their thoughts.  As I’ve come to expect, their feedback was resoundingly positive. 

Before I get going on whiskey, cowboy boots, honky tonks, and yesteryear, let’s start talking golf.

If you’re looking for a wonderful golf course in Nashville, TN, look no further than Gaylord Springs Golf Links. This gem, designed by US Open champion Larry Nelson, offers a links-style layout that caters to all skill levels.

The course’s 10 water hazards provide a great challenge for seasoned golfers and a charming backdrop for those new to the game. Situated just 17 minutes from downtown Nashville, Gaylord Springs Golf Links is easily accessible, offering a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Music City.

The clubhouse, with its stunning architecture, provides the perfect setting for weddings or post-tournament gatherings. The facilities, including modern clubhouses, restaurants, and pro shops, ensure that visitors have everything they need for a great day outside.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to experience Nashville, Gaylord Springs Golf Links is a top choice for both locals and visitors. It’s no wonder this PGA Tour stop is considered one of the best golf courses in the country club-centric Nashville.

 

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Smyrna, TN, the Smyrna Golf Course offers a truly enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels. The well-maintained fairways and greens provide a picturesque setting, surrounded by natural beauty.

Smyrna Golf Course ensures a comfortable and convenient golfing experience with modern amenities, including a clubhouse and practice facilities. Located in Smyrna, TN, the course is easily accessible from Nashville, making it an excellent option for golf enthusiasts in the area.

Golfers can enjoy a scenic and serene environment while taking on the challenges of this course. The Cumberland Golf Course, Hermitage Golf Course, and Cedar Crest Golf are some of the other top-notch courses in the Nashville area. Smyrna Golf Course’s proximity to the Cumberland River adds to its allure, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

This course has gained recognition from Golf Digests and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable golfing experience in middle Tennessee. Whether you’re an expert golfer or just starting, Smyrna Golf Course provides an inviting and rewarding round of golf.

 

 

Located near the serene landscapes of Smyrna, TN, Pine Creek Golf Course offers a challenging and well-maintained course for golfers of all skill levels. Situated amidst picturesque natural surroundings, the course provides a tranquil setting for a round of golf.

Designed by champion Larry Nelson, Pine Creek Golf Course boasts a diverse layout with strategically placed hazards and open fairways, catering to both novice and experienced players.

The modern amenities, including a clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop, ensure a comfortable and convenient golfing experience. Notably, the course offers affordable rates and flexible booking options, making it accessible to both residents and visitors.

With its beautiful scenery and quality facilities, Pine Creek Golf Course stands out as one of the best public golf courses in Tennessee. Golf enthusiasts can expect an enjoyable and challenging game while taking in the stunning views of the Cumberland River.

Pine Creek Golf Course has received positive star ratings and reviews, solidifying its reputation as a top golfing destination in the Nashville area.

Amidst the vibrant city of Nashville, Ted Rhodes Golf Course offers an invigorating and accessible golfing experience for enthusiasts of all levels. This public course, with its 18 holes and par of 72, presents a challenging yet playable layout suitable for golfers of varying skill levels. The course’s scenic views and well-maintained fairways and greens enhance the overall golfing experience. Additionally, the clubhouse, pro shop, and practice facilities contribute to the allure of this course.

Conveniently located just 10 minutes from downtown Nashville, Ted Rhodes Golf Course is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The course’s proximity to the city allows golfers to enjoy a round of golf without venturing far from the urban center. Furthermore, the course provides an affordable and enjoyable option for those seeking a golfing experience within the city limits.

For those interested in exploring other golfing options nearby, the renowned Hermitage Golf Course, featuring holes that play along the Cumberland River, is just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking to book a tee time at Ted Rhodes Golf Course or explore other courses designed by golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Donald Ross, Nashville offers a diverse range of golfing experiences. Be sure to take advantage of the driving range and other practice facilities to hone your skills before hitting the course.

If you’re ready to explore more of Nashville’s golfing offerings after your round at Ted Rhodes Golf Course, Cedar Crest Golf Club in Murfreesboro is a must-visit destination. Just a 35-minute drive from downtown Nashville, this club offers a charming layout with beautifully maintained, undulating fairways.

The course is a popular choice in middle Tennessee, attracting golf enthusiasts with its challenging yet enjoyable layout suitable for players of all skill levels. Cedar Crest Golf Club provides modern amenities, including a clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors.

Designed by renowned architect Bill Bergin, the course showcases stunning views of the Cumberland River and the surrounding Meade Country. Cedar Crest’s location outside the city allows for a peaceful and serene golfing experience. As you explore the course, you’ll encounter rolling fairways and strategic bunkering that will test your skills while providing a rewarding game.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Cedar Crest Golf Club offers an excellent practice facility and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Generals Retreat.

If you’ve served in the military or are a current or former first responder and like to play golf, you need to play on Tuesdays at Nashboro Golf Club.  Every Tuesday, there are tee times set aside for these heroes.  You play golf for free, only pay a cart fee if you want to ride. 

This course, built in 1975, continues to be a Nashville staple to this day.  If you want to play with a local, this is the spot.

Designed by American Society of Golf Course Architects legend, Benjamin Wirhy, this is a classic design whose shot values can’t be understated. 

Even though this course gets a lot of play, it’s manicured to a “T”. 

Worth every penny.

A course doesn’t have to be 8,000 yards and a par of 72 to be a quality experience.  I’m a firm believer in this notion and many of you are as well. 

That’s precisely the reason why Cheekwood Golf Course is high on our list of the best places to play in Nashville.  Even more, it’s only nine holes. 

Located just minutes north of downtown Franklin, Cheekwood is the perfect spot if you’re short on time and want to get around quickly.  The average round takes less than two hours.

And don’t think for a minute this course is a pushover.  It’s full of character and demands you’re best if you’re going to score.

One of the newer designs in the Nashville area is the Legacy. 

Open since 1996, this track was designed by hall-of-famer Raymond Floyd. 

The layout meanders through verdant hills and natural woodlands.  This is the epitome of golf in the Tennessee countryside. 

A perfect blend with its surroundings, the Legacy has the distinct honor of being named a Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International.

A great layout, more than worth the price of admission, don’t overlook the Legacy.

Another iconic track in the bedroom community of Franklin is Franklin Bridge Golf Club.

This course is in the heart of the Harpeth River Bottom. 

Unlike a lot of the courses in this area, Franklin Bridge isn’t surrounded by homes.  In fact, buildings are only distantly visible from three holes.  This golf course gives you the sense you’re far away from the noise and business of the city.

The layout has a links feel to it.  Many holes encourage you to play shots along the ground instead of flying it clear to the target.  Room for creativity abounds.

There’s no better facility to improve your game in the Nashville area than Harpeth Valley Golf Center.

The driving range is world class.  So are the short game and putting areas.  If there’s a shot you need to work on, you won’t have any problems finding the space to do it here.

Along with outstanding practice facilities, the nine-hole par three course is just plain fun. 

A great spot to work on your game and experience a casual round with family or friends, be sure to make a stop at Harpeth Valley.

Conclusion

My experiences have been varied when it comes to time spent in Nashville.  Way back when, it was all about late nights and neon lights.

More recently, it’s been about work and mostly golf.  Along with our readers, I fully endorse the Nashville golf scene as one of the best in the country.  If you get the chance to head this direction, saddle up little doggy, you’re going to be in for a fun ride both on and off the links.