15 of the Best Public Golf Courses in America!

Golf was invented somewhere around 1457, making it one of the world's oldest sports. And for those who valiantly face the sand traps, water hazards and unforgiving fairways, it seems like it takes a lifetime (or more) to master the game.

No doubt, golf is addictive. President Woodrow Wilson played in the snow, using black golf balls. Astronaut Alan Shephard used a six-iron to hit a ball on the moon. Actor Samuel L. Jackson has a clause in his contract allowing him to play twice a week during a movie shoot.

Golf is so popular in the U.S. that almost half the courses in the entire world are set within these 50 states. About 12,000 of them are open to the public - which is a good thing: of the 26 million golfers in America, 9 out of 10 play public courses. Here are 15 that are worth checking out.

1. Wintonbury Hills, Bloomfield, CT

It's built on the site of an old farm, and offers two different, but challenging, experiences. The front nine holes are very open, so the wind can throw unexpected curve balls; the back nine winds tightly through trees. While you're deciding which club to use, take in some pretty gorgeous views.

2. Bethpage Black, Farmingdale, NY

As one of the top (and most difficult) public courses in the country, it attracts players all over who want to take it on. Those who've played it say they have a new respect for the game: it requires way more focus and thinking than almost anywhere else.

3. The Ocean Course, Kiawah Island, SC

True to its name, it hugs the Atlantic Ocean - thus, the coastal winds hug your game. It's considered one of the most beautiful courses in the country, but one with many challenges. Bunkers butt up against sand dunes, every green has a tricky slope….but the views of the surf might relieve some of the pressure.

4. Arrowhead Pointe, Elberton, GA

It's a little out of the way, but players rave over the many scenic holes on this course. Because ten of the eighteen holes run near the lake, you stand a good chance of losing any "zen" moments - along with your ball. The standard advice is to pack extra in the golf bag.

5. Crandon Park, Key Biscayne, FL

It offers amazing views of the Miami skyline and the tropical waters surrounding the Keys. So that may take some of the sting out of the challenging greens. No wonder the super-experienced players of the Senior PGA Tour keep returning to take them on.

6. The Old White at The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, WV

Built in 1913, this iconic course still ranks as a "must" to play -especially since getting a facelift in 2007. It still retains the park-like beauty that offers both challenges (tree-lined fairways) and serenity. It's the site of the annual Greenbrier Classic.

7. Harborside International (Starboard), Chicago, IL

It's a links-style course with no trees. But if you think you can play a nice relaxing few holes, take a look at all the sand and water features around you. Plus, that open design allows the unpredictable winds to take things up a notch. Hey, it's called the "Windy City" for a reason.

8. Whistling Straits, Haven, WI

It's built on the site of an abandoned army base, designed to look and feel like you're walking the links in Ireland. The winds coming off Lake Michigan add to that feel, as do the rugged fairways. This picturesque course will test your game, as it has with many PGA pros.

9. Karsten Creek, Stillwater, OK

It was developed for Oklahoma State University, and ranks among one of best collegiate courses in America. The greens are fast, the layout is challenging - but hey, if you want to compete against the youngsters, you better step up your game. Here's your chance.

10. Butterfield Trail, El Paso, TX

The course has an "Old West" flavor, making good use of the natural terrain. Expect plenty of natural sand dunes and tough desert plants - but the greens are always in top shape. It's challenging, but not soul-destroying, and players appreciate the chilled bottled water available at every third hole.

11. Shadow Creek, North Las Vegas, NV

It started out as a private course for high rollers, but is now open to Regular Joes. This oasis in the midst of the desert has impeccable greens and astonishing views of the mountains - which also means interesting elevation challenges.

12. Chambers Bay, University Place, WA

It was created to provide a taste of Scotland's St. Andrews - and because it's situated on Puget Sound, you get that whole "windswept moors" thing. As you battle the breezes, painting your face like "Braveheart" might give you an edge. Or not.

13. Pebble Beach, Carmel, CA

Since it opened in 1919, it's been something of a golf mecca, blending land and sea in breathtaking fashion. To start, nine holes sit right above the Pacific: the views, the noise of the surf and the winds can be supremely distracting. Yes, it's pricey to play (as in, "a few hundred") - but it's a true bucket-list item for the golf fan.

14. Torrey Pines, La Jolla, CA

This course, set atop ocean bluffs and with plenty of tangled rough, is an exhilarating challenge for (somewhat) experienced golfers. If you're just starting out, you're likely to toss your clubs in the ocean. And there are plenty of waterfront fairways to accommodate you.

15. Kapaluau's Plantation Course, Maui, HI

The course is built over a former pineapple farm. And because Hawaii is a series of islands, expect to battle tough ocean breezes. Expect a pretty amazing view, no matter what hole you're playing. The greens are in excellent shape, being irrigated by the same system that watered pineapples a century ago.

Share your favorites!
Kansas Search
Go Golfing Near You
Go Golfing Near You
32942 West Lakeside Drive, Osawatomie, KS
The Osawatomie golf course is a parkland golf course design offering two distinct nines.  The front nine built in 1941 puts a premium on appro... Read More
21731 Clubhouse Drive, Spring Hill, KS
About Us:Sycamore Ridge has earned its reputation as the Kansas City area’s premier public golf course with its stunning combination of bent ... Read More
15810 South Gardner Road, Gardner, KS
16445 South Lackman Road, Olathe, KS
About Us:Heritage Park Golf Course is one of the most beautiful courses in the Kansas City metropolitan area. It offers an exceptional combination ... Read More
16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe, KS
Heritage Park is a 1,238-acre park is located at 159th and Pflumm Road. Purchased in 1979 through voter-approved bonds, the park was dedicated on J... Read More
1201 North Lake Rd, Garnett, KS
About Us:   Garnett Country Club is a 9 hole public golf course located at the North Lake. The course features two different front and back ... Read More
15400 Mission Road, Leawood, KS
About Sitting just off the state line of Missouri & Kansas, Ironhorse Golf Club is a quick drive from any location. Just 20 minutes from downt... Read More
14695 South Inverness Street, Olathe, KS
11099 West 135th Street, Overland Park, KS
About Us:Renovated twice in the last five years, St. Andrews has become one of the most popular golf courses in Kansas City. Golfers enjoy this 18-... Read More
15101 Grand Summit Boulevard, Grandview, MO
Our mission is to provide a family friendly atmosphere, affordable championship golf, outstanding service and world class amentities. When you join... Read More
20800 East 215th Street, Pleasant Hill, MO
The newest addition, Hoot's Hollow, opened in July, 2002. Similar to The Rock and The Quarry, Hoot's Hollow features zoysia fairways stretched betw... Read More
21601 East State Route P, Pleasant Hill, MO
Country Creek Golf Club is a family owned, affordable public golf course just minutes away from Kansas City. Country Creek Golf Club features 54 ho... Read More
11215 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO
Minor Park was established in 1966.  This classic 18 hole municipal golf course is known throughout Kansas City for it's playability.  Th... Read More
10195 Monticello Terrace, Lenexa, KS
In business since 1948, Smiley's Golf Complex has been serving the Kansas City area for over 55 years. Smiley's mission is to be the area's premier... Read More
9801 Falcon Valley Drive, Lenexa, KS
About Falcon Valley Golf Course is the only championship length nine-hole golf course in the Kansas City area. Recently named by midwestgolfguide.... Read More
20200 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, KS
About Falcon Ridge Golf Club is locally recognized as one of the newest private golf courses in the Midwest. Located in the southwest suburbs of K... Read More
3161 South 291 Highway, Lees Summit, MO
About Us: Shamrock Hills Golf Club is a Lee's Summit golf facility that lies on 170 acres of scenic land. The course gives the golfer a feeling th... Read More
11100 View High Drive, Kansas City, MO
The Fred Arbanas Golf Course is in your own back yard, if you live in Jackson County. If you live elsewhere, playing on this picturesque, challengi... Read More
17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee, KS
About Us:Tomahawk Hills Golf Course, in beautiful Shawnee, Kansas, is the oldest golf course in the metropolitan area. The course was built in 1910... Read More
8800 Scott Drive, De Soto, KS
'Golf At A Great Value' is our slogan and we are confident you will agree when you play Oak Country. We offer a fun and challenging 18 hole public ... Read More
7501 Blue River Road, Kansas City, MO
The River Course:With Rolling Fairways, undulating greens, water in play on over half of the holes, natural areas on and around the course and a ri... Read More
1901 NW Blue Parkway, Lees Summit, MO
The Unity Village Golf Course welcomes all walk-in golfers. Read More
Show More