Golf Advisor called Branson Hills Golf Club the “#1 Best Golf Place to Play in Missouri.”  It’s not hard to see why either.The Chuck Smith design sits in the heart of the Ozark Mountains and offers an experience that ...

Even though Rolling Hills is located in the quiet town of Versailles, it’s considered one of the finest public courses in the whole state. The Zoysia fairways and Bermuda greens are a dream to play from.  It’s more ...

St. Louis, the Gateway to the West.  A city steeped in American history unlike any other.  Today, this great city is home to culture, sports, food, commerce, and some of the best golf you’re going to find in the ...

Another 18 holes of great golf await at Riverside Golf Club.  Since 1965, golfers have strolled these fairways. This course isn’t long, but it’s a blast to play.  Playing to a par of 69 and a length of ...

Another timeless track in the St. Louis area is Creve Coeur Golf Course.  It dates all the way back to 1924.Even though this course is only nine holes, it’s full of character and charm. The fairways are sloped so ...

Even though Paradise Valley is located in an urban area, strolling its fairways gives you the sense you’re far away from the hustle and bustle. Situated in a pristine valley and surrounded by hardwood forest, quiet and ...

Unlike a lot of golf courses in the St. Louis area, the fairways are wide at Far Oaks Golf Club.  You can tee it high and let it fly. The front nine resembles a Scottish links layout with fairways that are surrounded ...

Just minutes from downtown, you’ll find Forest Park Golf Course.One of the finest munis in the state, Forest Park is full of character.  You’ll have to work the ball both ways as there are numerous doglegs.  Well ...

Opened in 1964, Florissant Golf Club has been enjoyed by golfers from all over for a long time.While the layout is both fun and challenging, the greens are what this track is known for.  They’re undulating and as fast ...

Gary Player designed 27 holes of spectacular golf at Tapawingo. Here, you’ll find three distinct nines that are characterized by hardwood forests, plenty of water, and abundant native wildlife.Target golf is on display ...

Stonewolf Golf Club is another course just across the Mississippi River in Illinois, but it’s only a short drive from downtown St. Louis. This Jack Nicklaus Signature design is considered one of the premier tracks in ...

Normandie Golf Club is one of the oldest golf courses in St. Louis.  It opened its doors in 1901.  That’s reflected in the design too.  Tree lined Bermuda fairways and small, undulating greens demand precision.  You’d ...

Even though Gateway National is technically across the Mississippi River in Illinois, it’s only a short drive from St. Louis.True to its name, this links course is one of the best you’ll find in the ...

The Land of 10,000 Lakes.  If you’ve never ventured to Minnesota and like to be outside, you’re missing out.  This great state is full of outdoor activities 12 months a year. While I’m not a huge fan of snow myself, I ...

One of the best values in Minneapolis is Forest Hills.You’re not going to find the lavish trappings of the finest private clubs at Forest Hills.  Instead, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile, and a golf facility that’s ...

Hastings Golf Club is the social hub in the community of Hastings. Along with great golf, this facility plays an integral part in hosting community events, meetings, and social gatherings.Without a doubt however, the ...

Since 1987, Centerbrook Golf Course has been a staple in the Minneapolis golf scene. Located just minutes from downtown, this course is one of the more challenging par three layouts you’ll find anywhere.  Not to ...

Oak Marsh Golf Course is a muni favorite for all kinds of golfers in the Twin Cities. Even though this layout is somewhat flat and wide open, it’s anything but a pushover.  Water hazards come into play on no less than ...

If you’re a fan of hidden gems like me, you’ll want to check out Shamrock Golf Course.  Will you be lucky and play well?  That’s up for the golf gods to decide.What you will find is a course that’s surprisingly ...

When golfers think of Chaska, they think of Hazeltine.  Unfortunately, most of us common folk won’t ever get to play this prestigious private club.The good news is Chaska Town Course offers a tremendous ...

Loggers Trail is considered to be one of the premier golf courses in all of Minnesota, not just the Twin Cities. A varied layout, you’ll experience a number of holes that are open and exposed, and others that are ...

Designed by Joel Goldstrand and opened in 1997, Heritage Links is centrally located in the heart of the Twin Cities.This isn’t a long golf course measuring a touch over 6,600 yards.  However, it demands course ...

The Meadows at Mystic Lake is a modern design that complements many of the older designs that are present on the Minneapolis golf scene. The layout is fairly open and features plenty of water.  Yes, you can swing ...

Eagle Valley is owned and operated by the city of Woodbury.  When you hear the term “city course,” it’s easy to assume the track is rundown and overcrowded.Such couldn’t be further from the truth when you’re talking ...

If you’ve lived in the state of Michigan, or have spent any significant amount of time here, you know the rivalry between those that live in the central and southern parts of the state, and those that live up north.  ...

Tullymore was named the “#1 Upscale Public Course in America” by Golf Digest when it opened in 2002. Golfers of all skill levels revere Tullymore for it’s outstanding condition and it’s unique layout.  The course ...

A true resort course in every sense of the word, the Mountain Ridge Course is downright fun to play for everyone.Set amongst the towering pines of the Northern Michigan forest, this course will have you feeling like ...

The Cedar River Course is another gem designed by Tom Weiskopf. Set on what was a glacier thousands of years ago, this course is classic Northwoods golf today. The fairways are narrow and tree lined.  Green complexes ...

It’s only fitting that this course is called the Bear.  It was designed by the Golden Bear himself. When it opened in 1985, this track was ranked the “18th Toughest Course in America” by Golf Digest.  It still has ...

The Heather Course at Boyne Highlands was named “National Course of the Year” in 2019.  Though I haven’t played here personally, I’m told it’s more than deserving of such high praise.Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. ...

The Tribute Course sits on 1,100 acres of pristine ground in the heart of the Sturgeon River Valley. Here, you can expect breathtaking views, dramatic elevation changes, and excellent playing conditions during the ...

When the Masterpiece Course opened in 1987, it was named the “Second-Best Course in the Country” by Golf Digest. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this track is built into deep, mountainous ravines.  Plenty of ...

My favorite designer of all-time, Arnold Palmer, gets all the credit for designing the outstanding Legend Course at Shanty Creek Resorts.As you might expect from a Palmer design, this track is meant for people to have ...

Locals say that there are 18 signature holes at Black Lake Golf Club. This Rees Jones design was the creation of nature, not man.  That’s evidenced by the abundant wildlife and lack of infrastructure that’s visible ...

Not only is Forest Dunes one of the finest golf courses in Northern Michigan, it’s one of the best in the entire state.Located in the town of Roscommon, this Tom Weiskopf design has both elements of links and target ...

If you’ve never been to Louisiana and played golf, you’ve haven’t lived a full life.  I’m a native Arizonan who’s used to dry heat and trying to hit it over a certain cactus to shave off some yardage on doglegs. While ...

Even though there are a lot of notable courses in New Orleans, Lakewood occupies a spot near the top by all accounts. Ron Garl is credited with the renovation of Lakewood that largely maintains the course’s ...

Located in the historic town of Lafayette, the Wetlands Golf Course is golf at its finest.The course measures anywhere from 5,000 to 7,000 yards so it’s playable for everyone. If you like to swing away from the tee, ...

This Dennis Griffiths design is located only minutes from downtown New Orleans.Even though this track plays to only a par of 62, it’s the setting and condition that make it such a treat to play.The course is set inside ...

Less than a half-hour drive from New Orleans, you’ll find Oak Harbor in the quaint community of Slidell.Given 4.5 stars by Golf Digest, Oak Harbor is a classic southern design.  The fairways are surrounded by native ...

By now you know I’m a fan of staying and playing all in one spot.There’s no better place to do it in Louisiana than Koasati Pines at Coushatta Casino Resort.The course winds through tall, mature pine trees and features ...

As I mentioned, the Zurich Classic used to be played at English Turn.  Now, it’s played at TPC Louisiana.Designed by the one and only Pete Dye, this tracked was named the “#4 Upscale Public Golf Course” by Golf Digest ...

Southern Charm is the word that comes to mind when you visit this gem of a property.The golf course was designed by Louisiana native, David Toms.  It’s been named a “Top 10 Course You Can Play” by Golf Magazine.Part of ...

Here we go again with a golf course with its state’s name in it. The National Golf Club of Louisiana has been called a “Best of the Best” by Golfweek Magazine. Some 14 lakes and 65 bunkers provide a wonderful aesthetic ...

Copper Mill presents the opportunity to play a round on a links course, not something you’ll find too often in Louisiana.Since opening in 2004, this course has continued to exceed everyone’s expectations.  What ...

English Turn is a Jack Nicklaus design and played host to a PGA Tour event for years.  You know how much I enjoy playing where the pros play, so it should come as little surprise that I’ve played here a few times.  It ...

I’ve been fortunate to spend some time in Kansas.  Even though I still don’t know exactly what a Jayhawk is, I’ve chased plenty of pheasants and whitetail deer in this state. What I haven’t done is play any golf.  I’ve ...

Designed by Steve Wolfard, Shoal Creek is one of the best public facilities in Kansas City.  That’s saying something for a course that’s owned by the city.Even though this track is built in an urban area, the layout ...

Buffalo Dunes is currently ranked as the “#1 Golf Course in Kansas” by Golf Digest. Located in the community of Garden City, this course opened in 1976 and has an air of a Scottish links in its design.  The wind can ...

Mariah Hills is the premier course in Western Kansas.  Even at that, it remains somewhat of a hidden treasure. The layout spans the rolling hills of the high plains that are covered in native grasses.  Holes are spread ...

Osawatomie Golf Course dates all the way back to 1941.  It’s rich with history and tradition to say the least.A story of two different nines, the outward stretch demands precision, especially into the greens.  They’re ...

Jay Morrish was the genius behind the design at Falcon Lakes which opened in 2002. This links-style layout features Zoysia fairways which are a dream to play off.  You’ll feel like you’re hitting every shot off a ...

Cherry Oaks Golf Course is the premier track in the Cheney area.  Owned and operated by the city, this course is open an astounding 362 days a year.  Not many other courses in Kansas can say that. Even though the ...

Turkey Creek has been open since 1990.  Since then, it’s become well known for its beautiful bent grass greens and bluegrass fairways.Native golden grasses line most holes and provide a wonderful contrast against the ...

Falcon Valley is hands down the best nine-hole golf course in the state.  Some say it’s the best in the Midwest. The mixture of holes that make up this track is really something.  Short, risk reward holes offer chances ...

Right on the Kansas and Missouri state line, Ironhorse Golf Club is one of the most renowned public courses in the state.Having received four stars from Golf Digest, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that players rave ...

Spring Creek Golf Course is one of the newer courses in the state. It’s also one of the most fun to play.  A diverse variety of holes creates plenty of chances for risk and reward.  Both the payoffs and ...

For as far north as the great city of Indianapolis sits, and as short as the golf season is, it’s remarkable how vibrant the golf culture is.  Not only does that mean people take their golf seriously, it also means ...

South Grove Golf Course dates all the way back to 1902.  It’s one of the oldest golf courses in Indiana. Set in the heart of downtown, this track affords splendid views of the Indianapolis skyline. The rolling ...

Plum Creek Golf Club was the vision of the venerable Pete Dye. Characteristics of this course include penal bunkers, plenty of water, and difficult greens.  From the tees, the fairways look narrower than they ...

In the suburb of Greenwood, you’ll find Hickory Stick Golf Club. Designed by Tom Liddy, this course’s rolling bent grass fairways and mounded rough are unlike anything else in the area.  While the fairways are a dream ...

Indianapolis’ best nine-hole golf course is Dakota Landing. This course is short but asks a lot from your game.  Narrow fairways mean you have to hit it straight.  Small greens dictate that your approaches have to be ...

Called the finest course on the eastside of Indianapolis, Morningstar Golf Club is most known for having some of the most challenging greens in Indiana.  Not only are they undulating, they’re especially firm and fast ...

Situated on 152 acres, Saddlebrook Golf Club is said to be the most welcoming, inclusive golf course in the Indianapolis area.  That set of values can be seen by how every staff member treats guests.  Unbelievable ...

Smock Golf Course is revered as one of the finest and most accessible public facilities in the entire state of Indiana. While the layout is somewhat open, it’s prone to afternoon winds that can make keeping the ball in ...

Opened in 2,000, Winding Ridge has spent the last 20 years providing a first-class experience to golfers of all levels.  There’s no sign of slowing down either.The course was designed for all golfers from beginners to ...

Prairie View Golf Club is the only course in Indiana that was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course sits on the banks of the White River in Hamilton County. A traditional parkland layout, the fairways ...

The original Fort Golf Resort Course underwent a major redesign by Tom Liddy and Pete Dye in 1998.  That was over 20 years ago. Since then, this track has continued to reign supreme as the premier daily fee facility in ...

At the time of this writing, the PGA Tour just finished up it’s two-week Hawaii swing that christens the beginning of the golf season. Even though the days are still short, and the temperatures remain frigid in most ...

In a land full of high-end prestigious golf facilities, it’s nice to know there’s a muni to be found amongst the lot.  That’s exactly what you’ll find at Waiehu Municipal Golf Course. This course overlooks the ...

Hence this course’s name, the Dunes at Maui Lani is the only course in Hawaii that exists on naturally occurring sand dunes. When this course was designed, minimal earth was moved.  Each hole was crafted in concert ...

Pukalani Country Club is arguably one of the more underrated courses on Maui. The course is set high up in the hills of “Up-Country” Maui.  For that reason, the layout features plenty of elevation change and ...

Maui Nui Golf Club is considered one of the best values on the island.  You can play here for less than $100.  That’s cheap by Hawaii standards, take it from me. At this property, you’ll experience generous fairways ...

A round at Kahili Golf Course allows you to understand why Maui is known as the Valley Isle.  Unlike a lot of the courses mentioned above, this track is nestled into the foothills of the West Maui Mountains.Designed by ...

Formerly home to the ancient Royal Chiefs of Maui, this course affords incredible views and gently sloping fairways. The layout is geographically diverse in that some holes are along the water while others wander into ...

The other course at the famed Kaanapali Resort is the Kai Course.  The property on which this track sits was once the vacation spot for the Royal Chiefs of Maui.  It was in this very spot where they enjoyed games like ...

The Gold Course at Wailea Golf Club is the most challenging of the three.  Since it opened, it’s been touted as one of the finest resort courses in the country.The design traverses rugged lava fields not far from the ...

If you’re just starting out with golf or are looking for a fun round with family and friends, the Emerald Course at Wailea Golf Club is the perfect venue. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this course’s features are ...

The Old Blue Course was designed by Arthur Jack Snyder.  For a long time, this course has been a favorite for both its challenge and charm. While the panoramas have to be seen to be believed, the layout demands your ...

As I continue to churn out these guides as quickly as I can, I keep getting requests to write yet another one about a specific location in Florida.  Having spent ample time in the Sunshine State, I thought I knew quite ...

Mark Alden was the one chosen to re-design Serenoa Golf Club.  His vision was to create a golf course unlike anything else in Sarasota.  That’s exactly what he proceeded to do.Serenoa Golf Club is designed with the ...

Misty Creek Country Club has a distinction that belongs to no other course in Southwest Florida.  It sits inside a wildlife preserve.  If you fancy nature along with your golf, this place gives you the best of both ...

Locals say that Rosedale is arguably the best conditioned golf course in Sarasota.  I don’t know about you, but that certainly piques my interest. The layout is challenging in that it asks you to execute a wide variety ...

Designed by Ted McAnlis, Tatum Ridge is a favorite track for both better players and seniors.  If you’re looking to test your game, you’ve come to the right place. A rarity in Florida, this track is a Scottish-style ...

In the summer of 2015, Bent Tree underwent a substantial renovation.  Since then, golfers have had nothing but glowing reviews.  Notable improvements include excellent bunker conditions, and pure TifEagle Bermuda ...

One of the things everyone seems to love about The Palms is its location.  It’s just a short drive from Bird Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, and downtown Sarasota.Variety, distinct water features, and beautiful landscaping ...

Rolling Green Golf Club is the epitome of Suncoast public golf.Plenty of lakes, strategic bunkers, and tree lined fairways make golfers think their way around this track.Perhaps the most challenging holes at Rolling ...

If you’re looking for a country club experience at a public price, you’ll be treated to an exceptional round of golf at the Highlands Course at the Meadows Country Club.Quality ball striking is the name of the game at ...

Legacy Golf Club was designed by the late, great Arnold Palmer.  By now you know he’s my favorite course designer of all-time.  For that reason alone, you know I’m putting this track on my bucket list. Touted as one of ...

One of the newer courses in the Sarasota area is University Park Golf Club.  The course was rated as the “#1 Golf Course in Southwest Florida” by Golf Digest. This 27-hole facility was designed by Ron Carl and boasts ...

Most everyone has a story to tell about spending time in San Francisco.  For my parents, the memories were somewhat blurred by their time there in the peace, love, and happiness of the 60’s.  Or so I’m told.My ...

Franklin Hills is located in the verdant, rolling hills that surround San Francisco in the town of Hercules.This Robert Muir Graves design is characterized by narrow fairways, tight doglegs, and expansive greens that ...

Lake Chabot is about as close to mountain golf as you’re going to find in the Bay Area. Situated high up in the Oakland Hills, this track has plenty of undulation and elevation change to keep you guessing.Originally ...

If you’re a fan of muni culture and history, you’ve come to the right place at Sharp Park.This seaside links was designed by none other than Alister MacKenzie.  Yeah, the same guy whose genius was Augusta ...

The 18-hole course at Monarch Bay boasts a reputation as one of the best kept courses, and also one of the best values in the Bay Area. Designed by John Harbottle, this seaside layout features six sets of tees making ...

One of the Bay Area’s most memorable golf courses, Crystal Springs sits high on the rolling hills above Crystal Springs Reservoir. The course opened for play in 1924 and was designed by William Herbert Fowler.  This ...

Metropolitan Links is an iconic American links layout.  You won’t find many tree lined fairways out here.  Instead, they’re expansive and rolling. Don’t be fooled though, there are plenty of well-placed bunkers and ...

Locals say Diablo Hills is one of the best kept secrets in San Francisco. Even though it’s only nine holes, this course is touted as one of the best tests you’re going to find anywhere.  The holes are ...

I was on the edge of my seat for hours during the 2020 PGA Championship.  Colin Morikawa stole the show, and when he drove the green on a short par four on the back nine on Sunday, I was in awe of how impressive that ...

Australia is home to some of the finest golf courses in the world.  Most of them are located in the country’s Sandbelt Region. The good news is you can find the same experience in the Bay Area at Corica Hills. Having ...