The Best Golf Course in Each of the 50 states

Starting off in Alabama, one of the top golf courses is Ross Bridge in Hoover. Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Ross Bridge has all the classic hallmarks of a traditional Scottish links course, complete with sprawling fairways, rolling hills, and natural hazards. The Robert Trent Jones design features wide-open fairways, generous landing areas, and tricky greens that will challenge and reward golfers of all skill levels.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable golf experience, head to Alaska and check out Anchorage Golf Course. This 18-hole length course offers stunning views of the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. You’ll also likely catch a glimpse of some of Alaska’s iconic wildlife like moose, bald eagles, and bears! With its challenging terrain and manicured greens, Anchorage Golf Course is a must-play for any golfers visiting the Last Frontier.

Arizona offers the unique and memorable experience of Troon North. Set at the base of Pinnacle Peak and among the natural rock formations of the majestic Sonoran Desert, Troon North’s two championship courses offer an absolutely unforgettable golf experience. Featuring tight fairways, demanding greens, natural cacti, and dramatic elevation changes, the courses at Troon North are truly one of a kind.

For golfers in Arkansas, the Mystic Creek Golf Club in El Dorado is a must-see. This 18-hole par 72 championship course, designed by avid golfer Tom Fazio, boasts breathtaking views at every turn along with interesting features that make it one of the most popular golf courses in the area. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned pro, Mystic Creek Golf Club has something for every skill level.

California offers a variety of great courses, but the best golf course has got to be Pebble Beach Golf Links. Just 12 miles south of Monterey, this magnificent course has served as the site of countless PGA championships, star-studded special tournaments, and celebrity favorites. Its spectacular views of the Pacific, five sets of tees, and challenging layout provide golfers of every skill level with a breathtaking experience.

Moving on, Colorado’s best golf course undoubtedly is CommonGround Golf Course. Located near Denver, this 18-hole championship course was designed by world renowned architect Tom Weiskopf and has been named the top public golf course in the nation. With its challenging greens, long fairways, and spectacular mountain views, golfers are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

When it comes to golf in Delaware, the Rehoboth Beach Country Club is the one to beat. This championship course has hosted prestigious golf tournaments, including the 2004 U.S. Open Local qualifier. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Rehoboth Beach Country Club’s challenging layout will keep you on your toes. Plus, the course is a picturesque landscape that offers stunning views of the marshlands and the Atlantic Ocean

Florida is home to some of the best courses in the country, and the Streamsong Resort’s Black Course is at the top of the list. Streamsong Black is a Par-72 course that’s pummeled players since it was designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. The Streamsong Black features various elevations and spectacular views of the sand dunes and lakes, making it a must-play for golfers in the Sunshine State.

 
In Georgia, the best golf course in the state is The Ocean Course at Sea Island, located just outside of St. Simons Island. This oceanfront course was designed by Tom Fazio and traverses 4,000 acres of salt marsh. From up high, you can take in stunning ocean views and then work your way through the rugged terrain to challenge your game. With five tee options and a variety of holes, this course represents the best golf that Georgia has to offer.

Heading over to Hawaii, the best golf course in the state is the Mauna Kea Golf Course, located on the Big Island. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. design is one of the most picturesque courses you will ever experience. With 11 oceanfront holes set against the backdrop of stunning mountaintops, players of all levels are sure to have a memorable experience. The course also features a 14th hole called the “Hula” hole which is shaped like a hula girl dancing in the waves and has been a fan favorite since its opening in 1964.

The best golf course in the state of Idaho is the Circling Raven Golf Club. Located in Worley, this golf course was designed by the legendary Gene Bates and is set on a Native American reservation. This par-72 layout is made up of six par 5s, six par 4s and six par 3s. With impeccable greens, incredible scenery, and tranquil wildlife, this golf course will have you wanting to come back for more. Whether you’re hoping to show off your skills or just enjoy the scenery, the Circling Raven Golf Club is the perfect choice in Idaho.

For a championship golf experience, The Chicago Golf Club is the best course to play in Illinois. Located in Wheaton, the course is a 27-hole championship facility that has been designed using traditional golf course architecture. Featuring rolling hills and picturesque landscaping, the course offers a good mix of difficulties and plenty of interesting challenges to keep golfers feeling engaged and entertained.

for the best golf course in Indiana, the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course remains unmatched. This Pete Dye designed course is located near the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway and it is easily one of the best courses in the Midwest. The course features four holes right on the track and another 12 that feature views of the iconic oval. Plus, golfers also get to enjoy the pleasant Indiana weather.

One of the best courses in the state of Iowa is Cedar Rapids Country Club. Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this 18-hole championship course features a layout that blends challenge and fun. You’ll be challenged by hidden bunkers and small greens, while also treated to great views of the surrounding area. Cedar Rapids Country Club even boasts one of the longest championship holes in all of Iowa, measuring an incredible 615 yards from the back tee.

In Kansas, the Nicklaus Design-designed Prairie Dunes Country Club in Hutchinson is a must-play for golfers looking for a challenging round. The Emporia Golf Course is another popular destination for golfers and offers stunning scenery with a classic midwestern charm. Other great courses in Kansas include the Pawnee Prairie Country Club in Topeka, the Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, and The Kansas City Country Club in Mission Hills.

Moving on in Kentucky, the Pine Mountain Golf Course & Country Club is one of the most beautiful courses in the region. Located in Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountain region, this 18-hole course provides an unparalleled view of the mountains from every angle on the course. Pine Mountain is well known for its tight fairways and tricky greens, making it a challenging but enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The amenities at the course include a driving range, a practice green, and a full-service clubhouse. 

TPC Louisiana, located in Avondale, is a championship-caliber golf course that has been home to some of the PGA’s prestigious tournaments, including the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. The course was designed by renowned golf course architects Pete Dye and Steve Elkington and is known for its lengthy, difficult par 5s, vast wetlands, and its renowned 16th hole. It’s open to the public, so you can experience this unique course that offers a challenge for golfers of every skill level.

Our journey continues to Maine’s The Ledges Golf Club. This 18-hole championship course is located just outside of Portland, and it’s known for its beautiful views of the ocean. The layout of the course features wide fairways and fast greens, making for an enjoyable round of golf for all. The amenities at The Ledges include a driving range, short-game area, and a well-stocked pro shop.

When it comes to Maryland, the Caves Valley Golf Club is the top-rated option. This beautifully designed championship course has hosted numerous PGA and LPGA tournaments, and has often been recognized for its superior playability. With its rolling terrain, undulating fairways and hard-to-reach par-3s, Caves Valley Golf Course is both demanding and rewarding for all who brave it.

Heading to Massachusetts, the Cape Cod National Golf Course in Brewster is the premier golfing destination in the state. Located just minutes from the coast, this world-class course offers stunning coastal views, challenging terrain, and an approachable layout that appeals to golfers of all skill levels. The course also features a range of amenities, such as advanced GPS yardage systems, a well-stocked pro shop, and a variety of dining options.

The North Course at Oakland Hills Country Club is the best golf course in Michigan. Located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, this championship golf course measures almost 7,000 yards from the Championship tees. With its notoriously difficult layout, this course has tested the skills of some of the greatest golfers in history and hosts some of the biggest events in the golf world.

In Mississippi, the most popular course is Old Waverly Golf Club. Located in West Point, this championship course features gentle rolling terrain, dense forests, and picturesque lakes. The course is well known for its fast and true greens, which are some of the favorite targets on the course. Old Waverly Golf Club is the perfect course for all types of players, featuring an array of par 3s, 4s and 5s, as well as several water hazards. 

For a great golfing experience in Missouri, look no further than Buffalo Ridge Golf Club. Located near Branson, this top-rated championship course features a par-71, 18-hole layout. The course is renowned for its stunning layout and dramatic elevation changes, as well as its lush green terrain. With an incredibly challenging course and unmatched views of the lake and wooded hillsides, Buffalo Ridge is a must-play for all golfers. 

For top golfing action, start with Montana and head to the award-winning Canyon River Golf Club in Billings. This 18-hole championship golf course has been voted the “Best Place to Play Golf” by Golf Digest and is home to the Blackfoot River, which meanders through several of the holes. This course has been ingeniously designed by golf architect Dick Nugent and features lush fairways, lightning quick greens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. 

Sand Hills Golf Club in Mullen is a challenging, championship course located in the heart of the scenic sandhills. Featuring a unique blend of links-style holes surrounded by prairie and meadows, the course is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. The signature hole, number four, is a par 3 so dramatic it looks like it’s straight out of a painting – from the tee box you’ll be able to take in endless views of the distant Sandhills.

Moving along, Montreux Golf and Country Club takes the podium in Nevada. This breathtaking course is located on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountains and features views of Lake Tahoe and the ocean. You’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring 18 holes as you make your way through this picturesque golf course.

New Hampshire’s Lake Sunapee Country Club is a must if you’re looking for a relaxing game on a picturesque golf course. This 18-hole championship course winds its way through the inter-mountain valleys, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area. There’s plenty of bunkers to challenge your short game, as well as plenty of water features to watch out for.

In New Jersey, the Old Course at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster is known throughout the golf community as one of the premier courses in the area. With plenty of bunkers and elevated greens, it’s a challenging course which promises a fun and rewarding round of golf. From the scenic views to the luxurious clubhouse and fine dining, you’ll be treated to a memorable golf experience. 

In the desert of New Mexico, the Twin Warriors Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa offers a beautiful and challenging course. The layout features wide fairways, undulating greens, and plenty of water features to test your wedge play. The resort also boasts a wonderful golf academy, so even if you’re just starting out, you can be assured of a great round.

For the avid golfer, it’s hard to beat Bethpage State Park in Long Island. Famous for hosting the 2002 and 2009 U.S. Open, this 18-hole championship course is a true gem. Its signature holes are the par-3 4th, the par-4 5th, and the monster par-5 6th. With sweeping views of Long Island, it’s one of the best courses in the state.

Head south to North Carolina, and you will find your way to the world-renowned Pinehurst Experience. Home to eight courses, Pinehurst is known for its impressive courses that feature impeccably maintained greens and fairways. One of the highlights of the Pinehurst Experience is the No. 8 Course, which was designed by the legendary Donald Ross and is considered one of the best courses in the Carolinas. 

For the best golf course in Oklahoma, there’s no doubt that Karsten Creek Golf Club is the top choice. This gorgeous course was designed by Tom Fazio, a legend of golf course architecture, and boasts some of the best views of rolling hills and picturesque landscape. This championship course is also home to the Big 12 Conference Men’s Golf Championship and has hosted the US Amateur Championship in 2019. With its state-of-the-art A-1 bentgrass greens, a pro shop, and the Karsten Creek Golf Academy, Karsten Creek Golf Club is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best golfing in Oklahoma.

Take a look at the great state of Oregon where you will find the highly-rated Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. This resort includes four world-class courses that have taken their place in the top of Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public Courses in America list. The Dunes Course was ranked at 25th, demonstrating the caliber of golf offered at this renowned golf resort. Each of the four courses at Bandon Dunes offer a unique and exciting experience validating why it’s one of the must plays on the west coast.

In Pennsylvania, the best golf course has to be Merion Golf Club. Located in the outskirts of Philadelphia, Merion has an amazing layout with multiple doglegs, bunkers, and elevated greens. The course has held several national championships and is steeped in Pennsylvania golf history. It has hosted events such as the PGA Tour, the U.S. Open, and the Ryder Cup. With a difficult par 71 layout, Merion is considered one of the nation’s finest courses. 

In Rhode Island, the best golf course is the Newport Country Club. This storied track was first opened in the late 1800s, making it one of the oldest golf courses in the entire country. It has been host to multiple USGA events, and its world-class layout has earned it accolades from such luminaries as Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson. The ocean views are remarkable too – Newport Country Club is definitely worth checking out.

We come to South Carolina. Here, the top golf course is Harbour Town Golf Links. The course is home to the annual RBC Heritage tournament and has long been renowned as one of the toughest on the tour. With its lush fairways, narrow roughs, and undulating greens, it can be a challenge for sure. However, a round here is sure to leave a lasting impression on any golfer. 

When it comes to golf courses, South Dakota is not often at the top of the list. However, there is one course in the state that really stands out. The Dakota Dunes Golf Links, located outside of Sioux City, is a top-notch championship golf course and one of the best in South Dakota. The 18-hole course boasts spectacular views of the Big Sioux River and is praised for its challenging and unusual terrain. The course is both playable and competitive, perfect for advanced and beginner golfers alike. 

Texas is a state that has it all. Every year some of the best golfers from around the world come to the Lone Star State to enjoy its wide array of courses. One of the top choices for professional golfers is the Tanglewood Golf Club in Fort Worth. This 18-hole, par 72 golf course is considered one of the finest courses in the state and has hosted several major tournaments. With its rolling hills, beautifully manicured greens, and stunning views of the surrounding area, it’s easy to see why the Tanglewood Golf Course has become a must-play for golfers of all abilities.

In Utah, the Red Ledges Golf Course is widely recognized as the best course in the state. This 18-hole championship length course features stunning views of the Wasatch Range, stunning elevation changes mixed with winding fairways and a few water hazards that make the course challenging while still being playable. The club also offers a modern practice facility which makes it a great choice for all levels of players as well. 

The beautiful state of Vermont holds a treasure of a course, the Country Club of Vermont is considered by many to be the best golf course in the state. The club boasts a beautiful 18-hole championship course which is perfect for golfers of all levels. The layout is both challenging and aesthetically pleasing with a variety of very appealing holes. The clubhouse amenities are first-class and the scenery surrounding the premises is something to behold. 

In West Virginia we find the world renowned The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs. The Greenbrier features several courses, but the most elite courses for golfers are The Old White TPC and The Meadows. The Old White TPC was designed by C.B. Macdonald and was recently renovated to modern standard, while The Meadows offers a demanding layout conceived by golf icon Jack Nicklaus. The Greenbrier also offers one of golf’s best training facilities, with a full staff of veteran and PGA Tour players who specialize in every aspect of the game.

Wisconsin has some of the greatest courses in the entire country, and The Legend at Bristlecone in the town of Hartland is one of the best. This course was designed by championship course designer Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and offers golfers a challenging layout with many different elevation changes, great views, and spectacular bunkering. It was also named one of the top public courses in the country by Golf Digest Magazine, so you can rest assured that you’re getting a high-quality course.

Last but not least, Wyoming. The granddaddy of all golf courses in the state is definitely the Teton Pines Country Club in Jackson Hole. Teton Pines is a championship-caliber course, featuring 6,900 yards of tight fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. The views at Teton Pines are exceptional, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests. With a four-star rating from Golf Digest, Teton Pines is a must for any serious golfer looking for a challenge in Wyoming.