Best Golf Course in Every State
Come with us on a journey across the greens and fairways of the United States as we uncover the top golf destinations in every state. From the lush landscapes of Hawaii to the rugged terrains of Alaska, each state boasts its own unique gem for golf enthusiasts to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a course for every skill level and preference waiting to be discovered.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best golf courses that America has to offer. Get ready to tee off amidst breathtaking scenery, challenging holes, and top-notch amenities. Whether you’re in search of championship-caliber courses designed by golf legends or hidden gems tucked away in quaint towns, we’ve got you covered.
Join us as we highlight the signature features, notable challenges, and the overall allure of each course that has earned its spot on our list. Whether you’re planning your next golf getaway or simply curious about what your home state has to offer, this article is your ultimate guide to finding the best golfing experiences across the diverse landscape of the United States. So grab your clubs and let’s hit the links!
North Carolina
- Course: Pinehurst No. 2
- Location: Pinehurst, North Carolina
- Features: Donald Ross design, sandy waste areas, historic venue
Pinehurst No. 2 is a historic gem designed by Donald Ross, featuring challenging sandy waste areas and undulating greens. The course has hosted numerous major championships, cementing its reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in the United States.
Georgia
- Course: Augusta National Golf Club
- Location: Augusta, Georgia
- Features: Magnolia Lane, Amen Corner, pristine conditions
Augusta National Golf Club is synonymous with the Masters Tournament and is revered as one of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world. The course’s breathtaking beauty, particularly during the annual Masters Tournament in spring, captivates millions of golf fans worldwide.
Arkansas
- Course: Blessings Golf Club
- Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Features: Championship design, water features, challenging bunkers
Blessings Golf Club is a championship-caliber course known for its demanding layout and scenic beauty, with water hazards, bunkers, and undulating fairways providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers. The course is affiliated with the University of Arkansas and serves as the home course for the Razorbacks men’s and women’s golf teams, hosting prestigious collegiate tournaments.
Utah
- Course: Sand Hollow Resort (Championship Course)
- Location: Hurricane, Utah
- Features: Desert landscape, red rock views, dramatic elevation changes
Sand Hollow Resort’s Championship Course showcases the stunning desert landscape of Utah, with its red rock vistas and dramatic elevation changes. The course’s challenging layout and scenic beauty make it a must-play destination for golfers visiting the area.
Missouri
- Course: Bellerive Country Club
- Location: St. Louis, Missouri
- Features: Major championship venue, challenging layout, historic club
Bellerive Country Club is steeped in golf history and has hosted multiple major championships, including the PGA Championship and the U.S. Open. The course’s strategic bunkering and challenging layout provide a memorable and rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Colorado
- Course: The Broadmoor Golf Club
- Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Features: Mountain backdrop, challenging terrain, historic course
The Broadmoor East Course is nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, offering golfers a challenging yet rewarding experience on its historic layout. This course has hosted numerous championships, including the U.S. Women’s Open and the U.S. Senior Open.
Vermont
- Course: The Golf Club at Equinox
- Location: Manchester Village, Vermont
- Features: Mountain backdrop, historic venue, challenging layout
The Golf Club at Equinox offers golfers a scenic mountain golf experience with its stunning views and historic venue. The course’s challenging holes and serene setting make it a favorite among golf enthusiasts in Vermont.
Arizona
- Course: The Estancia Club
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
- Features: Desert landscape, elevation changes, dramatic vistas
The Estancia Club is renowned for its challenging desert layout and panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, offering golfers an unparalleled experience amidst the rugged beauty of Arizona. Notably, the course was designed by Tom Fazio, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world.
Wyoming
- Course: Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club
- Location: Jackson, Wyoming
- Features: Teton Mountain views, wildlife sightings, challenging design
Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club offers golfers a spectacular mountain golf experience with its backdrop of the Teton Range and scenic beauty. The course’s pristine fairways and the chance to spot wildlife add to the allure of this iconic Wyoming destination.
Oregon
- Course: Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
- Location: Bandon, Oregon
- Features: Links-style courses, coastal views, world-renowned destination
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort’s Pacific Dunes course offers golfers a true links experience with its rugged dunes and stunning coastal views. The course’s design by Tom Doak captures the essence of Scottish links golf, providing a challenging yet unforgettable round for players.
Delaware
- Course: Bidermann Golf Club
- Location: Wilmington, Delaware
- Features: Wooded surroundings, rolling terrain, secluded feel
Bidermann Golf Club offers golfers a serene and challenging experience amidst the wooded landscapes of Delaware’s Brandywine Valley. Notably, this private club boasts a traditional design and impeccable course conditions, providing members with an exclusive golfing sanctuary.
Michigan
- Course: Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club
- Location: Arcadia, Michigan
- Features: Lake Michigan views, links-style layout, dramatic bluffs
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club offers golfers a unique experience reminiscent of Scottish links courses, with its dramatic dunes-style layout and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The course has been recognized as one of the top public golf courses in the United States, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world.
New Hampshire
- Course: The Golf Club at Eastman
- Location: Grantham, New Hampshire
- Features: Wooded surroundings, challenging layout, natural beauty
The Golf Club at Eastman offers golfers a serene and challenging experience amidst the wooded surroundings of New Hampshire. The course’s picturesque setting and well-manicured fairways make it a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a memorable round of golf.
Alabama
- Course: FarmLinks at Pursell Farms
- Location: Sylacauga, Alabama
- Features: Links-style layout, pristine conditions, natural water hazards
FarmLinks at Pursell Farms offers a unique links-style experience in Alabama, with meticulously maintained fairways and greens set amidst the rolling hills and scenic beauty of the countryside. The course is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program.
South Dakota
- Course: Sutton Bay Golf Club
- Location: Agar, South Dakota
- Features: Lake views, secluded setting, Tom Fazio design
Sutton Bay Golf Club offers golfers a picturesque lakeside setting with a challenging links-style design. The course’s rugged terrain and stunning views of the Missouri River make it a hidden gem in South Dakota.
Hawaii
- Course: Kapalua Plantation Course
- Location: Maui, Hawaii
- Features: Ocean views, elevation changes, trade winds
The Kapalua Plantation Course is a spectacular golf destination offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands. Notably, the course hosts the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions, attracting the world’s top golfers to its challenging layout.
Idaho
- Course: Circling Raven Golf Club
- Location: Worley, Idaho
- Features: Tribal-owned, natural wetlands, scenic vistas
Circling Raven Golf Club showcases the natural beauty of the Idaho landscape, with its immaculately manicured fairways winding through meadows, forests, and wetlands. The course is owned and operated by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and offers a unique and memorable golfing experience.
Oklahoma
- Course: Southern Hills Country Club
- Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Features: Championship venue, rolling terrain, challenging layout
Southern Hills Country Club is a revered championship venue known for its undulating terrain and challenging bunkers. The course has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, showcasing its reputation as one of the top golf destinations in Oklahoma.
Illinois
- Course: Medinah Country Club
- Location: Medinah, Illinois
- Features: Historic venue, championship layout, challenging bunkers
Medinah Country Club’s Course #3 boasts a rich history as a championship venue, having hosted multiple major championships like the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course’s iconic design includes strategically placed bunkers and majestic tree-lined fairways, providing a challenging yet memorable experience for golfers.
Virginia
- Course: The Highland Course at Primland
- Location: Meadows of Dan, Virginia
- Features: Mountainous terrain, stunning vistas, remote location
The Highland Course at Primland offers golfers a luxurious mountain golf experience in a remote setting. Set amidst the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, the course provides stunning views and a challenging layout designed by renowned architect Donald Steel.
Indiana
- Course: The Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort
- Location: French Lick, Indiana
- Features: Dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, panoramic views
The Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort is a testament to legendary architect Pete Dye’s design prowess, featuring dramatic elevation changes and stunning panoramic views of the Indiana landscape. The course has hosted prestigious championships, including the Senior PGA Championship, showcasing its status as a premier golf destination in the Midwest.
Pennsylvania
- Course: Merion Golf Club
- Location: Ardmore, Pennsylvania
- Features: Historic venue, challenging layout, major championship host
Merion Golf Club is a historic venue steeped in golf tradition, featuring a challenging layout and iconic landmarks. The course has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in Pennsylvania.
Kansas
- Course: Flint Hills National Golf Club
- Location: Andover, Kansas
- Features: Rolling terrain, native grasses, strategic bunkering
Flint Hills National Golf Club offers golfers a scenic and challenging experience amidst the rolling terrain and native grasses of Kansas, with strategically placed bunkers adding to the course’s allure and difficulty.
Alaska
- Course: Settlers Bay Golf Course
- Location: Wasilla, Alaska
- Features: Breathtaking mountain views, challenging layout, wildlife sightings
Settlers Bay Golf Course provides golfers with an unforgettable experience in Alaska, featuring stunning vistas of the Chugach Mountains and strategic holes that test players of all skill levels. Additionally, the course is home to abundant wildlife, including moose, bald eagles, and occasional bear sightings, adding to its unique allure.
Kentucky
- Course: Valhalla Golf Club
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky
- Features: Championship venue, lush landscape, signature holes
Valhalla Golf Club is a championship-caliber course known for its meticulously manicured fairways and challenging layout. Interestingly, the signature par-3 8th hole, known as the “Island Green,” adds excitement and drama to the course, making it a memorable experience for golfers.
Louisiana
- Course: TPC Louisiana
- Location: Avondale, Louisiana
- Features: Pete Dye design, bayou views, challenging layout
TPC Louisiana is a premier golf destination featuring a Pete Dye-designed course surrounded by the scenic wetlands of Louisiana. Notably, the course is a regular stop on the PGA Tour, hosting the Zurich Classic, and offers golfers a challenging yet rewarding experience on its meticulously maintained fairways and greens.
Maryland
- Course: Congressional Country Club
- Location: Bethesda, Maryland
- Features: Major championship venue, tree-lined fairways, challenging greens
Congressional Country Club’s Blue Course is steeped in history and has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The iconic par-3 10th hole, known as “The Drought,” presents a formidable challenge for golfers, contributing to the course’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier golf destinations.
Massachusetts
- Course: TPC Boston
- Location: Norton, Massachusetts
- Features: Arnold Palmer design, New England charm, challenging layout
TPC Boston is a premier championship venue known for its challenging layout and New England charm. Notably, the course has hosted multiple PGA Tour events, including the Dell Technologies Championship, showcasing its reputation as one of the top golf destinations in Massachusetts.
Minnesota
- Course: Hazeltine National Golf Club
- Location: Chaska, Minnesota
- Features: Ryder Cup venue, championship layout, challenging hazards
Hazeltine National Golf Club is a renowned championship venue that has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course’s challenging design and impeccable conditions make it a favorite among both professional and amateur golfers alike.
Connecticut
- Course: The Course at Yale
- Location: New Haven, Connecticut
- Features: Traditional layout, challenging greens, mature trees
Yale Golf Course is a classic New England gem renowned for its strategic layout and picturesque setting amidst mature trees and rolling terrain. The course was designed by renowned architect Charles Blair Macdonald and is consistently ranked among the top collegiate courses in the country.
Mississippi
- Course: Fallen Oak Golf Club
- Location: Saucier, Mississippi
- Features: Tom Fazio design, lush landscape, secluded setting
Fallen Oak Golf Club is a hidden gem nestled in the Mississippi countryside, featuring a Tom Fazio-designed course that blends seamlessly with its lush surroundings. The course’s secluded setting offers golfers a peaceful and tranquil escape, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
Montana
- Course: The Wilderness Club
- Location: Eureka, Montana
- Features: Mountain backdrop, water features, secluded setting
The Wilderness Club in Eureka, Montana, offers golfers a captivating experience surrounded by scenic beauty and natural landscapes. Designed by golf legend Nick Faldo, the course features a challenging layout that blends seamlessly with the rugged terrain of northwest Montana.
Tennessee
- Course: The Honors Course
- Location: Ooltewah, Tennessee
- Features: Pete Dye design, challenging layout, natural beauty
The Honors Course is nestled within the wooded surroundings of Tennessee, offering golfers a challenging yet scenic experience. The course has hosted prestigious championships, including the U.S. Amateur and the Curtis Cup, showcasing its reputation as one of the top courses in the state.
Iowa
- Course: The Harvester Golf Club
- Location: Rhodes, Iowa
- Features: Prairie landscape, challenging design, immaculate conditions
The Harvester Golf Club stands out with its unique prairie-style design and picturesque setting amidst the Iowa countryside, offering golfers expansive views and a serene atmosphere for play. The course’s commitment to environmental sustainability includes preserving native grasses and habitats, enhancing its appeal to both golfers and nature enthusiasts.
Nebraska
- Course: Sand Hills Golf Club
- Location: Mullen, Nebraska
- Features: Natural dunes, minimalist design, remote location
Sand Hills Golf Club is renowned for its minimalist design that accentuates the natural beauty of the Nebraska Sandhills. The course has consistently been ranked among the top golf courses in the world, offering golfers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Midwest.
Nevada
- Course: Shadow Creek Golf Course
- Location: North Las Vegas, Nevada
- Features: Tom Fazio design, lush landscaping, exclusive access
Shadow Creek Golf Course offers golfers a luxurious and secluded oasis in the desert, with its lush landscaping and meticulously manicured fairways. Notably, the course’s exclusivity and unparalleled service make it a favorite among celebrities and high-profile golf enthusiasts.
New Jersey
- Course: Pine Valley Golf Club
- Location: Pine Valley, New Jersey
- Features: World-renowned, challenging layout, pristine conditions
Pine Valley Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the greatest golf courses in the world, known for its challenging layout and pristine conditions. The course’s exclusive membership and storied history contribute to its legendary status in the world of golf.
New Mexico
- Course: Paako Ridge Golf Club
- Location: Sandia Park, New Mexico
- Features: Mountain vistas, challenging elevation changes, diverse terrain
Paako Ridge Golf Club offers golfers a scenic mountain golf experience with its breathtaking views and challenging holes set amidst the high desert terrain of New Mexico. The course’s elevation changes and strategic design provide a memorable and rewarding round of golf.
North Dakota
- Course: Hawktree Golf Club
- Location: Bismarck, North Dakota
- Features: Prairie setting, challenging design, natural beauty
Hawktree Golf Club offers golfers a unique prairie links-style experience with its native grasses and challenging layout. The course’s design by renowned architect Jim Engh provides golfers with a memorable and enjoyable round in the heart of North Dakota.
Ohio
- Course: Muirfield Village Golf Club
- Location: Dublin, Ohio
- Features: Jack Nicklaus design, challenging greens, Memorial Tournament venue
Muirfield Village Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers golfers a championship-caliber experience with its pristine conditions and challenging greens. Notably, the course hosts the Memorial Tournament, attracting top professional golfers from around the world.
Rhode Island
- Course: Newport Country Club
- Location: Newport, Rhode Island
- Features: Oceanfront views, historic venue, challenging layout
Newport Country Club is a historic gem situated along the scenic shores of Rhode Island, offering golfers breathtaking seaside views and a classic design. The course’s rich history includes hosting the first U.S. Open Championship in 1895, adding to its prestige as one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States.
South Carolina
- Course: Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Ocean Course)
- Location: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
- Features: Oceanfront layout, challenging winds, Ryder Cup venue
Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Ocean Course is a stunning oceanfront gem designed by Pete Dye, offering golfers a challenging and scenic experience. The course has hosted major championships, including the 1991 Ryder Cup and the 2012 PGA Championship, showcasing its reputation as one of the premier golf destinations in South Carolina.
Washington
- Course: Chambers Bay
- Location: University Place, Washington
- Features: Links-style layout, Puget Sound views, challenging terrain
Chambers Bay Golf Course is a championship venue known for its links-style design and panoramic views of Puget Sound. Notably, the course has hosted the U.S. Open, showcasing its challenging terrain and stunning beauty.
Florida
- Course: TPC Sawgrass
- Location: Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
- Features: Island green, stadium course, challenging layout
TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course is home to the famous Players Championship, offering golfers a thrilling and unforgettable experience on its challenging layout. The par-3 17th hole, with its iconic island green, is one of the most recognized holes in golf.
New York
- Course: Bethpage Black
- Location: Farmingdale, New York
- Features: Public course, challenging layout, U.S. Open venue
Bethpage Black Course is a public gem known for its challenging layout and hosting major championships, including the U.S. Open. The course’s difficulty and accessibility make it a favorite among avid golfers seeking a true test of skill.
Texas
- Course: Cypresswood Golf Club (Tradition Course)
- Location: Spring, Texas
- Features: Piney woods setting, challenging layout, natural water hazards
Cypresswood Golf Club’s Tradition Course is set amidst the scenic piney woods of Texas, offering golfers a challenging and memorable round. Notably, the course’s strategic bunkering and water hazards provide a test of skill for golfers of all levels.
Maine
- Course: Sugarloaf Golf Club
- Location: Carrabassett Valley, Maine
- Features: Mountain vistas, challenging elevation changes, natural beauty
Sugarloaf Golf Club offers golfers a unique mountain golf experience amidst the breathtaking vistas of western Maine. The course’s challenging elevation changes and stunning natural surroundings make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
West Virginia
- Course: The Greenbrier (Old White TPC)
- Location: White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
- Features: Historic venue, challenging layout, luxurious amenities
The Old White TPC at The Greenbrier, a historic venue dating back to 1914, offers golfers a challenging layout and luxurious amenities, providing an unforgettable and prestigious golfing experience in the Mountain State.
Wisconsin
- Course: Whistling Straits (Straits Course)
- Location: Haven, Wisconsin
- Features: Links-style layout, Lake Michigan views, challenging bunkers
Whistling Straits’ Straits Course is a world-renowned links-style layout featuring stunning views of Lake Michigan and challenging bunkers reminiscent of those found in Ireland. The course has hosted multiple PGA Championships, including the Ryder Cup, showcasing its reputation as one of the top golf destinations in the United States.
California
- Course: Cypress Point Club
- Location: Pebble Beach, California
- Features: Coastal cliffs, iconic holes, ocean views
Cypress Point Club is a world-renowned golf course famed for its breathtaking coastal views and iconic holes along the Pacific Ocean, offering golfers a memorable and exhilarating experience in the heart of California’s Monterey Peninsula. Notably, the course has a strict invitation-only policy for membership and has been consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world by various publications and experts.
