If you’re looking for a budget-friendly golfing vacation that combines your passion for the sport with some scenic views and attractions, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 U.S. states to choose from. These states offer some of the best courses in the country, with green fees under $80, and plenty of other things to do and see.
1. Arizona
Arizona is a golfer’s paradise, with over 300 courses to choose from. Many of the courses are designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. The state also boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the U.S., from the Grand Canyon to the Sonoran Desert. A couple of courses to check out:
– Quintero Golf Club: Ranked as one of the best public courses in Arizona by Golf Digest, Quintero offers a challenging layout with elevation changes, water hazards, and desert views. Green fees from $77 on weekdays and $83 on weekends.
– Papago Golf Course: Located in Phoenix, Papago is one of the oldest and most popular courses in the state. It features luscious wide fairways, large greens, and beautiful mountain vistas. Green fees from $53 on weekdays and $58 on weekends.
2. North Carolina
North Carolina is home to some of the most prestigious golf courses in the world, such as Pinehurst No. 2 and Quail Hollow. But you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some quality golf in this state, as there are plenty of affordable options as well.
– Olde Beau Resort & Golf Club: This Bruce Satterfield-designed course is highlighted by stunning mountain vistas, panoramic views, and beautiful seasonal foliage. This is a fun yet challenging course, and one you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Tar Heel State. Green fees from $39 on weekdays and $59 on weekends.
– Tanglewood Park Championship Course: The host the 1974 PGA Championship won by Lee Trevino, Tanglewood Park, in Clemmons NC, is a classic parkland course designed by legendary architect, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. with tree-lined fairways, bunkers, and some challenging water hazards. Green fees from $50 on weekdays and $60 on weekends.
3. Michigan
Michigan may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of golf, but it actually has more than 800 courses to choose from, many of them along the shores of the beautiful Great Lakes. The state also offers a variety of attractions, such as museums, breweries, and national parks. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly golf vacation in Michigan, take a look at these two courses:
– Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course: Arcadia Bluffs offers quite stunning scenery overlooking Lake Michigan, and features rolling hills, sand dunes, and some tricky fescue grasses. Green fees from $75 on weekdays and $85 on weekends.
– Diamond Springs Golf Course: Located just south of Grand Rapids, Diamond Springs is nestled in oak and pine clad sandhills, and offers breathtaking views whle offering unique challenges between the front and back nines. Probably one of the best “bang for the buck” courses in all of America. Green fees from $45 on weekdays and $55 on weekends.
4. Florida
Florida is a no-brainer for golf lovers, as it has more than 1,200 courses to choose from, many of them open year-round. The state also has some of the best weather in the U.S., as well as plenty of beaches, theme parks, and nightlife options. Budget-friendly courses are widely available in Florida, including:
– Orange County National Golf Center (Panther Lake Course): Orange County National is one of Orlando’s most popular courses. Located in Winter Garden, this Phil Ritson designed course features natural lakes, wetlands, and huge oak trees. Green fees from $65 on weekdays and weekends.
– Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club: A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this course offers a unique layout that features 100 feet of elevation changes, rolling fairways, and over 180 bunkers to test your sand game. The course is also known for its fast and smooth greens that require a good touch. Green fees from $45 on weekdays and $65 on weekends.
5. Oregon
Oregon really is a hidden gem for golfers, as it has some of the most diverse and beautiful courses in the country, from coastal links to mountain meadows. The state also has a rich culture of art, music, and food, as well as breathtaking natural wonders like Crater Lake and Mount Hood. Our top two picks to try on a budget:
– Running Y Ranch: Located in Klamath Falls, this is one of Arnold Palmer’s most cherished designed courses. Stunning views every direction you look, and nestled in the Cascade mountain range, Running Y is a fair but true test of any golfer’s ability. Green fees from $54 on weekdays and weekends.
– Aspen Lakes Golf Course: Located in Sisters, and offering some of the most stunning scenery in Oregon, Aspen Lakes features red sand bunkers that perfectly contrast with the green fairways and blue skies, as well as views of the magnificent Three Sisters mountains. Green fees from $89 on weekdays and weekends.
Hopefully these will help you to plan out your next budget golfing vacation with your clubs and your friends this summer… Happy golfing!
