The United States is home to some of the world’s most stunning and challenging golf courses, attracting avid golfers and enthusiasts year-round. From iconic venues steeped in history to modern marvels with imaginative landscapes, America’s top courses offer a diverse range of experiences for golfers at every skill level. Whether seeking out a picturesque public course for a leisurely round or indulging in the full amenities of a luxurious resort, players can find both solace and excitement on the greens across the nation.
There is no way in heck we could make an exhaustive list of courses to play throughout the U.S. Having said that, I think we might agree there are a handful of courses on this list that any of us would love to play. So I’m asking you, what are your top courses? Locally or nationally.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. offers a diverse range of exceptional golf courses for players at every skill level
- Accessing reviews and lists can help golfers identify must-visit destinations
- Unique course designs, layouts, and facilities contribute to unforgettable golf experiences.
Top U.S. Golf Courses
There are numerous outstanding golf courses in the United States, attracting players from all corners of the globe. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at three of the top golf courses: Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, and Whistling Straits.
Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach Golf Links, located in California, is often regarded as one of the greatest golf courses in the United States. The historic course, designed by Jack Neville and Douglas Grant in 1919, provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and some of the most challenging holes in golf. With its exceptional greens and fast fairways, Pebble Beach has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. In 2021, this iconic course ranked high in various national golf course rankings.
Pinehurst
Situated in North Carolina, Pinehurst Resort is home to several top-rated golf courses, including the renowned Pinehurst No. 2. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross and opened in 1907, Pinehurst No. 2 is a classic course that has tested the skills of the best golfers for over a century. The course is famous for its crowned greens and challenging bunkers, which demand accurate shot-making. Pinehurst No. 2 has also hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, such as the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, and Ryder Cup. It remains a popular choice for golf aficionados in the United States, consistently earning a place in top golf course rankings.
Whistling Straits
Located along the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, Whistling Straits is another top golf course in the United States. The course was designed by the famous course architect Pete Dye and opened in 1998. Featuring stunning views and dramatic terrain, Whistling Straits is known for its challenging links-style layout, with fast, undulating greens, deep bunkers, and rolling dunes. The course has been the venue for several major championships, such as the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup, confirming its status as a premier destination for golfers in the nation. Whistling Straits continues to be a staple in various golf course rankings.
Best Golf Courses by State
California Courses
California is home to some of the finest golf courses in the country. The Pebble Beach Golf Links is a must-visit for any golfer, with its stunning coastal views and challenging layout. Other top courses in the Golden State include the Pasatiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz and Los Angeles Country Club, both of which offer a mix of classic architecture and modern amenities.
Pennsylvania Courses
Golfers looking for a taste of history will find it in Pennsylvania, where the renowned Oakmont Country Club is located. This historic course has hosted multiple major championships and is known for its fast greens and challenging bunkers. Other notable courses in the Keystone State include the Merion Golf Club, which has a storied past, and the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, offering a picturesque setting in the Laurel Highlands.
New York Courses
New York boasts an impressive array of golf courses, from classic private clubs to top-tier public tracks. The Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on Long Island is one of the oldest golf clubs in the US, and its challenging layout has hosted multiple major championships. Other noteworthy courses in the Empire State include the Bethpage Black Course, site of the 2019 PGA Championship, and the scenic Leatherstocking Golf Course in Cooperstown.
Wisconsin Courses
Wisconsin has been gaining recognition as a premier golf destination in recent years, thanks to the addition of top-ranked courses like Sand Valley. This impressive resort features multiple courses designed by renowned architects, including the original Sand Valley course and Mammoth Dunes. Erin Hills, the site of the 2017 US Open, is another must-visit course in the Badger State, offering stunning views and intricate design features.
New Jersey Courses
Finally, New Jersey offers a mix of historic and modern courses that will satisfy even the most discerning golfer. The Pine Valley Golf Club is consistently ranked as one of the best courses in the world, with its challenging layout and pristine conditions. The state also features notable public courses like the Atlantic City Country Club, which has a storied history and offers beautiful views of the Atlantic coastline, and the Ballyowen Golf Club, known for its links-style layout and exceptional course conditioning.
Public Golf Courses
Bethpage State Park
Bethpage State Park, located in Long Island, New York, boasts five public golf courses, including the renowned Bethpage Black. This challenging course has hosted several major championship events, including the U.S. Open. Known for its narrow fairways, multi-tiered greens, and deep bunkers, Bethpage Black offers players a true test of golf prowess. Green fees may vary depending on the time of year and time of day, but New York State residents typically enjoy discounted rates.
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Set in a picturesque southern location, the Caledonia Golf & Fish Club in Pawleys Island, South Carolina combines natural beauty and exceptional golf. Designed by architect Mike Strantz, the course features ancient live oaks, vast marshes, and vibrantly colored azaleas throughout its 18-hole layout. With its antebellum-style clubhouse and wraparound porch, Caledonia provides a warm, casual atmosphere for players to relax after their round. Green fees fluctuate based on the season, so it’s best to check current rates before planning your visit.
Shadow Creek
While Las Vegas may be better known for its casinos and nightlife, it’s also home to one of the best public golf courses in the country: Shadow Creek. Designed by Tom Fazio, this luxurious and exclusive course offers players a unique golfing experience as they traverse its pristine fairways and meticulously maintained greens. The course’s privacy, lush landscapes, and cascading waterfalls make it feel like a private oasis in the midst of bustling Las Vegas. Green fees at Shadow Creek are on the higher end, reflecting its upscale experience and limited public access.
Resort Golf Courses
Pine Barrens
Pine Barrens is a unique golf course nestled within the sandy pine woodlands of southwest New Jersey. This distinctive course is known for its beautiful natural landscape and challenging terrain. Pine Barrens offers a serene destination for golf enthusiasts who long for an escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
Sea Pines Resort
Situated on picturesque Hilton Head Island, Sea Pines Resort is a golfer’s paradise, famous for its five-star accommodations and world-class facilities. Boasting multiple top-rated courses, this resort attracts players of all skill levels. The beautiful surroundings and mild climate provide the perfect setting for year-round golf, making Sea Pines Resort an exceptional choice for those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable golf experience.
Big Cedar Lodge
Nestled in the stunning Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge is a luxurious retreat that offers an unparalleled golf experience. Home to several championship courses designed by renowned architects, it caters to golfers with varying skills and abilities. With its affiliated hotel providing upscale amenities and accommodations, Big Cedar Lodge delivers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and excellent facilities, ensuring a memorable golf getaway for its guests.
Critiquing Golf Courses
When it comes to ranking the best golf courses in the United States, several publications and organizations are involved in establishing these prestigious lists. This section will discuss two of the most well-known golf course ranking systems: GolfDigest Methodology and GolfWeek Rankings System.
GolfDigest Methodology
GolfDigest has been publishing its list of America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses since 1966, earning the title as one of the oldest and most respected rankings in the game. The GolfDigest methodology relies on a panel of course panelists to evaluate and rank the courses.
These panelists are asked to review and assess courses based on a set of 10 criteria, including shot values, resistance to scoring, design variety, memorability, and aesthetics, among others. Each criterion is assigned a score, with the overall rating of a course determined by the sum of all criteria scores.
An interesting aspect of the GolfDigest methodology is the challenge it presents to raters. It encourages panelists to compare courses on a variety of factors, considering not just course design but also its natural surroundings and how it fits into its environment.
GolfWeek Ranking System
Another well-known golf course ranking system is the GolfWeek Rankings System, which also utilizes a team of course-ratings panel to evaluate and rank golf courses. In contrast to GolfDigest, GolfWeek’s criteria are slightly different, with more emphasis on layout, conditioning, and playability.
The raters are asked to provide scores for each course based on their personal experience, as well as to consider the course’s overall impact on the game of golf. Like GolfDigest’s panelists, GolfWeek raters face the challenge of comparing a wide variety of courses, striving to establish an objective and comprehensive ranking system.
In summary, both GolfDigest and GolfWeek maintain respected ranking systems by relying on expert panelists to evaluate and score golf courses in the United States. They use a combination of criteria and challenges to ensure that their rankings are meaningful and useful to golf enthusiasts.
Golf Fees and Value
Golfers looking for the best courses in the United States need to consider both the quality of the course and the cost. This section will help you understand golf course fees and how to find the best value.
Daily Green Fees
Daily green fees are the cost for playing a round of golf on a particular course. These fees can vary greatly depending on the course’s location, popularity, and exclusivity. On average, daily green fees can range from as low as $25 at Spring Valley in Salem, Wisconsin, to well over $400 at top-tier courses.
When considering daily green fees, it’s essential to remember that they often do not include additional costs, such as cart rental and sometimes even access to practice facilities. Be sure to factor in these expenses when planning your golf outing.
Value Rankings
Finding the best value golf courses means identifying courses that offer a high-quality golf experience for a reasonable price. There are several resources, such as GOLF’s Top 100 Value Courses and Golfers’ Choice 2022: Top 25 Courses for Value, that can help you find courses that provide good value for your money.
Example value courses:
- Belvedere Club in Charlevoix, Michigan: Renowned for its exceptional greens and a top-50 ranking in the country.
- Rustic Canyon near Los Angeles, California: A Top 100 public-access course with green fees at just $74 for walkers during peak season.
It is essential to read golfer reviews and check ratings when looking for value courses, as this will give you firsthand information about the overall experience, course conditions, and pace of play. With this information in hand, you can find the best golf courses to suit your budget and playing preferences.
Golf Destinations
Golf enthusiasts can find picturesque and challenging courses across the United States. Among them, Boston and the Phoenix/Scottsdale area stand out as popular destinations, offering a diverse array of golf courses and experiences.
Boston Courses
Boston, rich in history and tradition, boasts numerous top-notch golf courses within its vicinity. Golfers seeking a unique blend of urban sophistication and classic golf layouts can enjoy their favorite pastime at Southern Pines. With its tree-lined fairways and lush greens, Southern Pines provides a serene escape within the city’s borders. Another gem in the Boston area is Bay Harbor, a beautiful course nestled along the shoreline boasting stunning views. The course design requires strategic shot-making, and it receives rave reviews for its pristine condition and memorable layout.
Phoenix/Scottsdale Courses
The desert landscapes of Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, offer a dramatic backdrop for golf lovers. In this region, you can find a wide selection of courses, catering to various skill levels and preferences. One of the most renowned golfing experiences can be found at the Troon North Golf Club, where two highly-acclaimed courses, the Monument and the Pinnacle, weave their way through captivating desert terrain. The courses’ unique designs and breathtaking views make them a favorite among players.
Additionally, the Phoenix/Scottsdale area is home to a myriad of courses for the novice golfer, the weekend warrior, or those just looking to enjoy a casual round. With an emphasis on fun and approachability, these courses combine quality play with breathtaking surroundings, making your golfing experience one to remember.
Striking a balance between nature and challenge, the golf courses in both Boston and Phoenix/Scottsdale cater to a variety of players, giving golfers ample opportunities to create unforgettable memories while playing their favorite sport.
Where to Find Course Information
Individual Course Page
One way to find information about the best golf courses in the United States is by browsing individual course pages on their respective websites. These pages often provide details about the course layout, difficulty level, and history. Additionally, they can offer insights into the unique challenges and features of each course, such as water hazards, course elevation changes, and famous holes.
Map
Another useful tool for finding course information is a map that displays the locations of top-rated golf courses. Websites like Golf Digest and GOLF provide interactive maps that display their ranked golf courses, allowing users to explore the geographical distribution and identify potential destinations based on proximity or personal preferences.
Nationwide Network of Raters
The rankings of the best golf courses in the United States usually rely on a nationwide network of raters, who evaluate and score the courses based on various factors, such as design, conditioning, and playability. These raters are typically experienced golfers who travel extensively to review and assess courses. By understanding their methodology and evaluation criteria, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the courses that make the top lists and choose appropriately based on individual preferences and skill levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top public courses to play in 2023?
There are many great public golf courses to play in 2023. Some of the top choices include Pebble Beach Golf Links in California and Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon. These courses offer stunning views and challenging layouts, making them a must-play for any golf enthusiast.
Which classic courses are ranked in Golf Digest’s top 100?
Golf Digest’s top 100 includes many classic courses that have stood the test of time. Some of these include Pine Valley in New Jersey, Augusta National in Georgia, and Cypress Point Club in California. These courses are known for their rich history, pristine conditions, and iconic holes.
How can I find the best golf courses by state?
To find the best golf courses by state, you can refer to GOLF’s rankings of the best courses in every state. This comprehensive list provides a variety of options for golfers looking to explore new courses around the country.
Are there any famous golf courses in Oregon?
Yes, Oregon is home to several famous golf courses, most notably Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. This coastal retreat features multiple courses, each offering a unique and challenging experience. Bandon Dunes is known for its spectacular views, firm and fast playing conditions, and links-style golf.
What are the oldest golf courses in America?
Some of the oldest golf courses in America include Chicago Golf Club in Wheaton, Illinois, which was founded in 1892, and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, established in 1891. These historic courses have stood the test of time and are still enjoyed by golfers today.
Can the average golfer play at iconic courses like Pebble Beach and Pinehurst No 2?
Yes, the average golfer can play at iconic courses like Pebble Beach and Pinehurst No 2. While they may be more expensive and require advanced reservations, these courses are open to the public. This provides golfers of all skill levels with the opportunity to experience some of the most famous layouts in the United States.
