Ohio boasts an impressive array of top-notch golf courses, each one with its unique setting and challenging features, attracting golf enthusiasts of all levels. With a rich golfing history, the state’s courses offer something for everyone, from sweeping landscapes to impeccable course designs. This article will discuss some of the finest golf courses in Ohio that have earned high praises from players and avid fans alike.
From the quaint and charming Dublin suburb to the bustling hub of Toledo, Ohio’s golfing scene is as diverse as the locations where the courses are built. World-renowned course architects have flocked to the state to perfect their craft, creating masterpieces that honor both the tradition and the beauty of the game. The quality and variety of these courses have led to Ohio being a top destination for golfing expeditions.
As we delve into the details of these exceptional courses, you’ll discover the reasons behind their esteemed reputations. From challenging layouts to picturesque surroundings, Ohio’s best golf courses are sure to captivate and challenge golfers, promising memorable experiences that will last a lifetime.
Best Golf Courses in Ohio
Ohio is home to some amazing golf courses that have consistently ranked high in various golf course rankings. In this section, we will cover some of the top golf courses in the state, including Muirfield Village, The Golf Club, Inverness Club, Scioto Country Club, Camargo Club, and Double Eagle Club.
Muirfield Village
Muirfield Village Golf Club, located in Dublin, Ohio, is often considered the top golf course in the state. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course has hosted numerous high-profile tournaments and events. Known for its challenging layout and breathtaking scenery, Muirfield Village is a must-play for any serious golfer visiting Ohio.
The Golf Club
The Golf Club, situated in New Albany, Ohio, is another prominent golf course in the state. This Pete Dye-designed course has garnered praise for its challenging yet enjoyable layout. With rolling fairways, well-guarded greens, and superb course conditions, The Golf Club provides an exceptional experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Inverness Club
The Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, boasts a rich history and a classic course design by the legendary Donald Ross. With recent renovations elevating its status, Inverness Club now sits atop GOLF’s course rating for 2022-23. The course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Scioto Country Club
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Scioto Country Club is another Donald Ross masterpiece. Known for its tight fairways and challenging greens, this course requires precise shot-making and strategic course management. With a strong history of hosting top-tier events like the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup, Scioto Country Club is a must-play when in Ohio.
Camargo Club
Nestled in the Indian Hill area of Cincinnati, the Camargo Club is a top-ranked course designed by Seth Raynor. Its 1925 offering is often listed in the national Top 100 rankings. The magnificent layout features challenging holes, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Double Eagle Club
Rounding out our list of top golf courses in Ohio is the Double Eagle Club in Galena. This exclusive, members-only course is known for its stellar course conditions and challenging layout. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, Double Eagle Club features a mix of traditional and modern elements that make for a memorable golfing experience.
Public Access Courses
The Virtues Golf Club
The Virtues Golf Club is a highly regarded public access course in Ohio. Designed by Arthur Hills, the course offers golfers of all skill levels a challenging and enjoyable experience. Golfers consistently praise the course for its well-manicured greens and fairways, as well as its picturesque landscape. Based on ratings and reviews, The Virtues Golf Club consistently ranks among the best public access courses in the state.
Stonelick Hills
Stonelick Hills Golf Course is another top-rated public access course in Ohio. Known for its pristine conditions and challenging layout, Stonelick Hills offers a memorable round of golf. The course layout features various elevation changes and well-placed bunkers, which provide a good test for golfers. Golfers appreciate the course’s beauty and challenge, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course is a must-play public access course for those seeking a challenging yet enjoyable round. With its rolling hills, bunkers, and water hazards, this course will test a golfer’s skills while still offering a casual and enjoyable atmosphere. The course has garnered high public access ratings and reviews, making it a favorite among Ohio golfers.
Manakiki Golf Course
Manakiki Golf Course is another public access gem in Ohio. Located in Willoughby, the course is known for its beautiful setting amid dense forests and scenic hills. Golfers frequently praise Manakiki’s well-maintained fairways, challenging greens, and overall great course design.
Fowler’s Mill Golf Course
Fowler’s Mill Golf Course in Chesterland offers two public access courses: Lake and River, which are consistently ranked among the best in Ohio. The courses’ beautiful natural settings and challenging layouts make for an unforgettable experience. Fowler’s Mill Golf Course has received high ratings and reviews from both casual and serious golfers.
The Quarry Golf Club
The Quarry Golf Club is a public access course set in a former rock quarry, providing a unique golfing experience. With its dramatic elevations and water features, The Quarry challenges golfers while offering incredible panoramic views. The club has earned excellent public access ratings and reviews, earning it a place among Ohio’s top courses.
Boulder Creek Golf Club
Boulder Creek Golf Club is a highly-regarded public access course situated in Streetsboro, Ohio. The course’s beautiful landscape, combined with challenging holes, provide golfers an enjoyable experience. Boulder Creek’s reputation for its outstanding course conditions and friendly staff make it a popular choice among Ohio golf enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems and Classic Courses
Kirtland Country Club
Kirtland Country Club, nestled in the hills of Willoughby, is a true hidden gem in Ohio. With its Golden Age design, this course offers picturesque views and challenging gameplay to golfers of all skill levels. The rolling fairways and well-guarded greens make it a classic course that’s well worth a visit.
Canterbury Golf Club
Canterbury Golf Club, located in Beachwood, is a Donald Ross-designed course that features strategic bunkering and undulating greens. Its rich history and notable tournament play make it an absolute must-visit for golf enthusiasts. And with its revered design, it’s easy to see why it remains a favorite among both casual and serious golfers in Ohio.
Moraine Country Club
Moraine Country Club in Kettering is another classic Donald Ross-designed track that has hosted several significant tournaments. Known for its subtle elevation changes and challenging greens, Moraine Country Club showcases the timeless Ross design that keeps players coming back for more.
NCR South Course
The NCR South Course in Kettering has a rich golfing heritage and is yet another prime example of a golden age design. This challenging course features pristine fairways and tough bunkering that will test the skills of even the most seasoned golfer. Its classic layout and ample natural beauty make it a popular choice for golf outings in the Buckeye State.
Brookside Country Club
Brookside Country Club in Canton is best known for its Donald Ross-designed layout and picturesque setting. The meticulously maintained course offers golfers an enjoyable and challenging experience that combines the best of classic course design with modern amenities. Expect to be both charmed and challenged by this Ohio golf staple.
Pepper Pike Club
Pepper Pike Club, situated in the Cleveland suburb of Pepper Pike, is yet another example of a classic course in Ohio. Its beautiful, tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers make it a pleasure to play for all skill levels. If you’re a fan of traditional, classic courses, Pepper Pike Club won’t disappoint.
With such a diverse array of hidden gems and classic courses to choose from, golfers in Ohio are spoiled for choice. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual golfer, these clubs offer some of the finest golf experiences in the region.
Golf Courses in Major Cities
Columbus Area Courses
The Columbus area boasts a variety of excellent golf courses for players of all skill levels. With a blend of both private and public courses, golf enthusiasts can enjoy challenging layouts and picturesque scenery. Some notable courses in the area include Raymond C. Firestone Golf Course in Akron and Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala.
Golf Courses in Dublin
Dublin, a suburb of Columbus, also offers some great golfing opportunities. Home to the prestigious Memorial Tournament, Dublin features the renowned Muirfield Village Golf Club, designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. The area also has several public courses, providing various options for golfers of different levels.
Cleveland Golf Scene
Cleveland has a rich golf scene, with Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in Brecksville and Pine Hills Golf Club in Hinckley being two of the top-rated courses in the area. Besides these, the area features numerous well-maintained public courses, offering a good balance of challenge and playability for players of various abilities.
Toledo’s Top Courses
Toledo offers some equally impressive courses, such as the well-regarded private course of Inverness Club, which has hosted multiple major championships. The public golf scene provides players with various options like Ottawa Park Golf Course and Collins Park Golf Course, which are both affordable and enjoyable.
Best Courses in Canton
Canton is a haven for golf enthusiasts, with the renowned The Quarry Golf Club leading the pack. The club offers a unique and challenging layout, with stunning views and excellent course conditions. Canton also has a variety of public courses, providing options for all skill levels and budgets.
New Albany Golf Courses
New Albany, an affluent suburb of Columbus, features several top-notch golf courses. The New Albany Country Club is a standout in the area, offering 27 holes of championship golf in a beautiful setting. Golfers can also find several public courses in the vicinity, giving them a chance to enjoy the sport without necessarily being a member of an exclusive club.
PGA Tour and Notable Tournaments
Courses Hosted by Tournaments
Ohio is home to several prestigious golf courses that have hosted notable PGA Tour tournaments. One such course is the renowned Firestone Country Club’s South Course, which has been the venue for three PGA Championships, and various PGA Tour events, including the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.
Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village
Another standout course is Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio. This gem was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1974. The course has been the host site of the prestigious Memorial Tournament, an annual PGA Tour event, since its inception in 1976.
Muirfield Village is not only ranked as the top golf course in Ohio but also holds a noteworthy position among the top courses in the United States. Its challenging layout and impeccable maintenance make it a favorite amongst professionals and golf enthusiasts alike.
The Memorial Tournament, founded by Jack Nicklaus, is held in memory of individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of golf. It has attracted some of the biggest names in golf history and continues to be a staple event in the PGA Tour calendar. The tournament not only pays tribute to these legends but also provides an opportunity for emerging talents to compete against the best in the game.
Golf Course Designers and Architects
Pete Dye Design Courses
Pete Dye, a legendary golf course architect, has left his mark on some of Ohio’s finest golf courses. One of his most iconic designs in the state is the Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin. This course is not only a testament to Dye’s creative and strategic designs but also offers a challenging and rewarding golf experience for players of all skill levels. Muirfield Village has continually been ranked as one of the top golf courses in Ohio.
Keith Foster-Designed Golf Courses
Keith Foster is another notable golf course designer who has contributed to Ohio’s golf landscape. Foster is best known for his ability to create challenging courses that both respect golf’s traditions and incorporate modern advancements in course design. Unfortunately, none of Keith Foster’s courses were listed in the top golf courses of Ohio based on the provided search results.
Alex “Nipper” Campbell’s Creations
Alex “Nipper” Campbell was an influential golfer and course designer in the early 20th century. Though there is limited information available on Campbell-designed courses in Ohio, his contributions to golf course designs overall have earned him a place in golf history.
In conclusion, Ohio’s best golf courses showcase the talents of various outstanding designers such as the legendary Pete Dye. These courses offer players unique, challenging experiences that keep Ohio at the forefront of the golfing world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find a map of Ohio golf courses?
A map of Ohio golf courses can be found on various websites and guidebooks focused on golf course listings. One such resource is GolfPass, which allows you to search and filter through Ohio golf courses based on location, rankings, and reviews, and provides course information and directions.
Can you recommend any great golf courses in nearby states like Kentucky?
Of course! We look at some of the best golf courses in Kentucky as well as all states. In Lebanon, a neighboring city of Ohio, you can find Shaker Run Golf Club, a highly-rated course with a challenging layout. Also, in Kentucky, you can visit the Valhalla Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus and located in Louisville. This course has hosted multiple major championships, offering an incredible golfing experience for those traveling from Ohio to neighboring states.