Best Public Golf Courses in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

If you’ve read our course guide about public golf in Colorado, you know I absolutely love this state and all that it has to offer.  From hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and just general exploring, the outdoor recreation possibilities are endless. 

One of our writers is partial to Denver, both for the golf and everything else that the city has to offer.   He’s there frequently as that’s where his sister lives. 

But he’s also spent some time in Colorado Springs, which is just 60 miles south of Denver.  Home to the Airforce Academy, there’s a lot going on here.  And that includes some great public golf.  I’ve been fortunate to play here too.    

With his help, and that of our readers, we’ve come up with our list of the best public tracks you can play.

If you’re seeking a golfing adventure that combines wide fairways, challenging bunkers, and a well-designed layout, Antler Creek Golf Course is the perfect destination for players of all skill levels. Designed by Rick Phelps and opened in 2004, this renowned course in Colorado Springs offers six sets of tees to cater to different skill levels, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced golfers. The 73 bunkers strategically placed throughout the course provide a demanding yet enjoyable event for golf enthusiasts.

Voted Best New Course by Colorado Avid Golfer in 2004, Antler Creek Golf Course has garnered a reputation as one of the best public golf courses in Colorado Springs. Its well-designed layout ensures that players of all levels can enjoy a round of golf while being surrounded by the stunning Colorado scenery.

Before or after a round of golf, players can indulge in a delicious breakfast at the Creekview Grill, adding to the overall adventure at Antler Creek. The combination of wide fairways, challenging bunkers, and high-quality amenities solidifies Antler Creek Golf Course as a top choice for those seeking a memorable and rewarding golfing adventure in Colorado Springs.

Antler Creek Golf Course offers a fantastic golfing event. If you’re looking for another equally remarkable course, The Broadmoor West Course at the iconic Broadmoor Resort is a must-visit. Here’s what you can expect at The Broadmoor West Course:

• Rolling fairways and dangerous hazards are set against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views at an elevation of 6,800 feet.
• A challenging layout designed by Donald Ross that has hosted significant championships, including the 1967 U.S. Amateur, providing an exhilarating experience for golf enthusiasts.
• Fast, sloping greens that are highly rated by panelists, ensure an enjoyable yet demanding round of golf.

The West Course at Broadmoor Golf Club, located in Colorado Springs, is among the best public golf courses in Colorado. Renowned for its beauty and demanding design, this course is a gem for those seeking the thrill of mountain golf. It’s a must-visit destination for golfers who appreciate the mastery of Robert Trent Jones in crafting a course that perfectly complements the stunning natural surroundings of the Broadmoor Country Club.

Nestled within the iconic Broadmoor Resort, the Broadmoor East Course offers golfers a captivating and user-friendly adventure amidst stunning mountain views. Unlike its bold counterpart, the West Course, the East Course features generous fairways and sizable greens, making it a more approachable option for golfers of varying skill levels.

With its fast, sloping greens and putts breaking away from the mountains, the course provides a delightful and challenging golfing experience. The Broadmoor East Course has garnered significant acclaim, receiving a five-star rating from Golf Digest and being recognized as a top 25 Resort Course in the World by Links Magazine.

Designed by Donald Ross, this course showcases breathtaking views of the mountains and is highly recommended by golf enthusiasts. It has also hosted various prestigious events, cementing its reputation as one of the BEST Colorado Springs Golf courses.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just beginning to explore the sport, the Broadmoor East Course promises an unforgettable event against the backdrop of Pikes Peak and the surrounding natural beauty.

Nestled near the iconic Pikes Peak and the stunning landscapes of the Garden of the Gods, Kissing Camels Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque and challenging adventure with its tree-lined fairways and small, strategically placed greens.

As you step onto the course, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the Garden of the Gods, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your game. The club’s design by J. Press Maxwell and Mark Rathert ensures that every hole presents a new and exciting challenge, making for an unforgettable round of golf.

The first-class amenities and facilities, including multiple tee options suitable for all skill levels, cater to every golfer’s needs, enhancing the overall experience. Kissing Camels Golf Club is highly recommended for its top-notch facilities and beautiful surroundings, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one.

• Panoramic views of the Garden of the Gods
• Challenging and diverse holes designed by J. Press Maxwell and Mark Rathert
• First-class amenities and facilities catering to all skill levels

Silver Spruce Golf Course offers an 18-hole layout that remains open year-round, featuring narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards to challenge golfers of all skill levels. Nestled in the stunning mountain scenery of Colorado Springs, this public course provides a unique and enjoyable golfing event.

In addition to the 18-hole course, there’s a nine-hole par three course, making it suitable for families and beginners. The well-maintained conditions of the course are complemented by the friendly and helpful staff, ensuring a pleasant visit for all players. After a round, the Greenside Grill and Smokehouse provide a perfect spot for post-game gatherings, with reasonable prices and great conditions.

The Silver Spruce Golf Course has gained popularity for its challenging yet enjoyable layout, and it’s not hard to see why. This hidden gem is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable golfing experience in the heart of God’s Resort. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, the course caters to players of all levels, ensuring a gratifying time amidst the breathtaking Colorado landscape.

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With its rich history and demanding layout, Patty Jewett Golf Course stands out as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts in Colorado Springs. The course, established in 1898, is the third oldest golf course west of the Mississippi and is owned and operated by the city of Colorado Springs.

Patty Jewett Golf Course offers a variety of holes with classic design elements by renowned golf architect Donald Ross. As you navigate through the 27 holes, you’ll be surrounded by centuries-old trees, adding to the course’s scenic beauty and creating a serene atmosphere for your game. The well-maintained tees and fairways, along with the challenging greens with subtle breaks, make every round at Patty Jewett Golf Course an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Additionally, the course provides amazing views of Colorado Springs, adding to the overall allure of this historic and best golf course in Colorado Springs Country.

Located in the picturesque landscape of Colorado Springs, Cherokee Ridge Golf Course offers a diverse and enjoyable golfing happening for players of all skill levels. Situated just miles south of Denver, this golf course presents an 18-hole championship course and a nine-hole par three course, catering to a range of abilities.

Whether it’s your first time on the green or you’re a seasoned player, Cherokee Ridge Golf Course offers something for everyone. The championship course features generous fairways and short clubs into greens, providing an opportunity for an enjoyable round of golf. Meanwhile, the par three course is ideal for honing specific skills, making it a great option for those looking to refine their game.

Cherokee Ridge Golf Course is renowned for its good conditions and affordable prices, ensuring a high-value golfing event for all players. With a mix of short and straightforward holes, it creates a varied and engaging round of golf. Additionally, the practice facilities at Cherokee Ridge Golf Course make it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their game while surrounded by the stunning landscape of Woodland Park, Gods Resort, and Cheyenne Shadows.

As its name suggests, Cheyenne Shadows sits at the base of Cheyenne Mountain. 

Even though this course was built for the Cheyenne Mountain Space Force, it’s open to the public and civilians are welcomed with open arms, so long as you can pass a background check. 

The course is known for always being well-kept and the layout is fun to play.  A wide variety of holes allow you to hit a plethora of different shots and use every club in your bag. 

Even for civilians, this is one of the best values you’ll find anywhere.

Shining Mountain just sounds like a happy place to be.  I can personally attest that it is. 

Set in the community of Woodland Park, this is a classic mountain design that meanders through alpine meadows while affording spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. 

Even though the layout appears wide-open at first glance, there’s a premium placed on ball striking due to the plentiful penalty areas that can be found on most holes. 

Along with a great layout, the staff here are some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet.  No matter how busy they are, they’re happy to answer all your questions and genuinely want to hear about where you’re from and your experience.  These folks care and it shows.

Eisenhower Golf Club is the home facility for the Airforce Academy. 

These are big courses that ask a lot of your game from tee to green.  Drive is straight and long, and pick your clubs into greens wisely. 

The Blue Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and measures 7,300 yards from the back tees. 

Even though the Silver Course is significantly shorter, it demands just as much from your full clubs. 

Whichever course you decide to play, one thing is certain, the Rocky Mountain panoramas make it hard to concentrate.

Conclusion

Colorado Springs is a happening place.  Whether you find yourself here serving our country, or want to pursue outdoor recreation in any capacity, this is a great place to be.

While Denver receives a lot of attention for its tremendous golf scene, the quality of golf in Colorado Springs is equally as noteworthy.

I’m fortunate to have played a number of the courses on this list and along with our readers, I have nothing but positive things to say.

For those of you that so kindly shared your thoughts about golf in Colorado Springs, my sincerest thanks.  If you have any additional words of wisdom to add, drop us a note in the comments below.