best golf courses in michigan great lakes beauty
best golf courses in michigan great lakes beauty

If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for the ultimate golfing experience, look no further than Michigan’s awe-inspiring golf courses. With its breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the Great Lakes, Michigan offers a golfing paradise like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these top-notch courses are guaranteed to leave you in awe. From the challenging fairways to the meticulously manicured greens, each course offers a unique blend of natural beauty and exceptional design. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off at the best golf courses Michigan has to offer. Get ready for a golfing adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Best Golf Courses in Michigan

Table of Contents

Michigan is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, offering a diverse range of options for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a top-rated course, a championship-level challenge, a scenic getaway, a historic gem, a hidden treasure, a luxurious resort experience, a public course accessible to all, a private club for exclusivity, a links-style adventure, or a parkland escape, Michigan has it all. Let’s explore the various categories and discover the best golf courses across the state.

Top-Rated Golf Courses

When it comes to top-rated golf courses in Michigan, several stand out for their exceptional design, impeccable conditioning, and outstanding service. These courses have consistently received high praise from golfers and experts alike.

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

Nestled on the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club offers a breathtaking setting for a round of golf. The course, designed by architects Warren Henderson and Rick Smith, combines the beauty of the natural landscape with strategic play, creating a memorable golfing experience.

Forest Dunes Golf Club

Another top-rated course, Forest Dunes Golf Club, showcases the beauty of Northern Michigan. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, the course features challenging holes that wind through towering pines and sandy waste areas. The scenic views and pristine conditions make it a favorite among golfers.

Tullymore Golf Resort

Located in Stanwood, Tullymore Golf Resort boasts two championship golf courses designed by renowned golf architect, Jim Engh. The courses offer a mix of Scottish-style links and traditional inland holes, providing a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Crystal Downs Country Club

Known for its classic design and stunning natural beauty, Crystal Downs Country Club in Frankfort is a golfing gem. Designed by Alister MacKenzie and Perry Maxwell, the course features undulating fairways, challenging greens, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

Oakland Hills Country Club

With a rich history and championship pedigree, Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills is a must-play for avid golfers. The course has hosted numerous major tournaments, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. Its challenging layout and impeccable conditioning have earned it a place among the top-rated golf courses in Michigan.

Championship Courses

For golfers seeking a challenging and competitive experience, Michigan offers a variety of championship courses that test players’ skills and stamina.

Oakland Hills Country Club

As mentioned earlier, Oakland Hills Country Club is not only a top-rated course but also a championship venue. The club’s South Course has a storied history of hosting major championships, including multiple U.S. Opens. Its demanding layout and strategic design make it a formidable test for even the most skilled golfers.

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

While Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club is known for its picturesque setting, it also offers a championship-caliber experience. The course challenges golfers with its length, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens, providing a true test of skill and precision.

Forest Dunes Golf Club

Forest Dunes Golf Club, with its challenging layout and well-manicured fairways, is another championship-worthy course. The combination of natural hazards and strategically placed bunkers requires precision off the tee and accuracy on approach shots.

Tullymore Golf Resort

Tullymore Golf Resort, with its two championship courses, offers players the opportunity to test their skills in a tournament-grade setting. The courses’ challenging layouts and diverse hole designs provide an exciting and competitive golfing experience.

Boyne Highlands – The Heather

The Heather course at Boyne Highlands is a championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. It has hosted numerous high-profile events, including the Michigan PGA Championship. The course’s undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and tricky greens make it a true championship test.

Scenic Courses

Michigan’s natural beauty is on full display at the state’s scenic golf courses. These courses not only offer a great golfing experience but also provide stunning views that add to the enjoyment of the game.

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club

As mentioned earlier, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club’s location on the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan provides golfers with breathtaking panoramic views. Playing a round at this course allows golfers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding Great Lakes region.

Forest Dunes Golf Club

The Forest Dunes Golf Club’s location amidst towering pines and sandy waste areas creates a unique and picturesque backdrop for a round of golf. The course’s scenic beauty enhances the overall experience, making it a favorite among nature-loving golfers.

Bay Harbor Golf Club

Situated along the shores of Little Traverse Bay, Bay Harbor Golf Club offers spectacular views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The course’s rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers provide not only a challenging game but also an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan.

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

Located just outside of Grand Rapids, The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe offers golfers scenic views of the Thornapple River and the surrounding countryside. With its mature trees, pristine fairways, and well-manicured greens, this course provides a serene and beautiful setting for a round of golf.

Stoatin Brae Golf Course

Nested atop rolling hills in Augusta, Stoatin Brae Golf Course offers stunning views of Michigan’s countryside. The course’s links-style design allows golfers to enjoy panoramic vistas throughout their round, making it a top choice for scenic golf.

Historic Courses

For golfers who appreciate the rich history and heritage of the game, Michigan is home to several historic courses that have stood the test of time.

Oakland Hills Country Club

Oakland Hills Country Club, with its prestigious heritage, is not only a top-rated and championship course but also a historic gem. Founded in 1916, the club has hosted numerous major championships, cementing its place in golf history. Playing a round at Oakland Hills is like stepping back in time and experiencing the storied past of the game.

Crystal Downs Country Club

Crystal Downs Country Club, founded in 1927, is another historic golf course that showcases the timeless elegance of the sport. Designed by Alister MacKenzie and Perry Maxwell, the course has been ranked among the best in the world. Playing at Crystal Downs is like embracing the spirit of golf’s golden age.

Belvedere Golf Club

Belvedere Golf Club, located in Charlevoix, has a rich history dating back to 1925. This historic course offers a traditional layout and charming character that harkens back to golf’s early days. Playing a round at Belvedere is like stepping into a bygone era of the game.

Indianwood Golf and Country Club

Indianwood Golf and Country Club has been a staple of Michigan’s golf scene since its founding in 1925. The course has hosted multiple major championships and continues to provide a challenging and historic golfing experience. With its classic design and well-preserved character, Indianwood is a must-play for history-loving golfers.

Country Club of Detroit

Founded in 1897, Country Club of Detroit is one of Michigan’s oldest and most storied golf courses. The course’s traditional architecture and rich history create a sense of nostalgia for the game’s early days. Playing a round at Country Club of Detroit is like walking in the footsteps of golfing legends.

Hidden Gems

Michigan is home to a few hidden gems, lesser-known courses that offer exceptional quality and a unique golfing experience.

Stoatin Brae Golf Course

As mentioned earlier, Stoatin Brae Golf Course not only offers stunning scenic views but also deserves recognition as a hidden gem. The course’s links-style design and superb conditioning make it a hidden treasure for golfers seeking an off-the-beaten-path golf experience.

Arcadia Bluffs South Course

While Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club is well-known for its main course, the South Course is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Designed by Dana Fry, the South Course is a true hidden treasure for golfers looking for a challenging and memorable round.

Eagle Eye Golf Club

Located in Bath Township, Eagle Eye Golf Club is a hidden gem designed by Chris Lutzke and Pete Dye. The course offers a mix of challenging holes and picturesque views, providing a delightful experience for those who seek hidden treasures in Michigan.

The Fortress Golf Course

The Fortress Golf Course, nestled in Frankenmuth, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of challenging holes and serene surroundings. The course’s well-manicured fairways, strategic bunkering, and scenic views make it a must-play for golfers seeking hidden gems in Michigan.

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club, located in Pierson, is a hidden treasure that has been receiving acclaim from golf enthusiasts. Designed by Richard Jacobson, the course takes advantage of the natural landscape, creating holes that are both challenging and enjoyable to play.

Resort Courses

Michigan is an ideal destination for a golf resort getaway, offering a range of courses set within luxurious resorts that provide an all-in-one vacation experience.

Tullymore Golf Resort

Tullymore Golf Resort not only offers championship-level golf but also provides luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities to make your stay unforgettable. The resort’s two courses, Tullymore and St. Ives, provide a diverse golfing experience set against the backdrop of Michigan’s natural beauty.

Boyne Highlands – The Heather

Located in Harbor Springs, Boyne Highlands offers a resort experience like no other. The resort features world-class accommodations, dining, and recreational activities, all centered around its renowned golf courses. The Heather course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a highlight that offers a challenging and beautiful round of golf.

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa – The Bear

Set amidst the scenic beauty of Northern Michigan, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is a premier destination for golfers and vacationers alike. The resort’s courses include The Bear, a challenging and iconic Jack Nicklaus-designed course that has hosted numerous professional events. Playing a round at The Bear is a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Crystal Mountain – Mountain Ridge

Crystal Mountain is a popular haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities including skiing, hiking, and, of course, golf. The resort’s Mountain Ridge course, designed by Desmond Muirhead, is a championship-caliber course that winds through majestic forests and showcases panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Shanty Creek Resorts – The Legend

Shanty Creek Resorts, located in Bellaire, offers a variety of accommodations and recreational activities, including golf. The Legend course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is a highlight of the resort. The course’s rolling terrain and scenic views create a memorable golfing experience.

Public Courses

Michigan is renowned for its public golf courses, providing access to great golf for players of all skill levels.

Stoatin Brae Golf Course

As previously mentioned, Stoatin Brae Golf Course not only offers stunning scenery but is also accessible to the public. The course’s links-style layout provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe, located in Grand Rapids, is a public course that offers an exceptional golfing experience. The course’s well-manicured fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens provide a memorable round for players of all abilities.

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club, a hidden gem mentioned earlier, is also a public course. This award-winning course features a challenging layout and stunning natural scenery, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Fortress Golf Course

The Fortress Golf Course, nestled in Frankenmuth, welcomes golfers of all levels to experience its challenging yet enjoyable layout. The course’s accessibility to the public allows golf enthusiasts to test their skills on a well-maintained and thoughtfully designed course.

Sweetgrass Golf Club

Located in Harris, Sweetgrass Golf Club offers a public course that combines challenging golf with the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The course’s rolling terrain, pristine fairways, and strategic hazards create an enjoyable round for golfers of all abilities.

Private Courses

For golfers seeking exclusivity and the amenities of a private club, Michigan has a range of options to choose from.

Crystal Downs Country Club

Crystal Downs Country Club, mentioned earlier as a historic gem, is a private club that has long been revered for its classic design and pristine conditions. The club offers an exclusive golfing experience for its members, with the opportunity to play on a course that is consistently ranked among the best in the world.

Oakland Hills Country Club

Oakland Hills Country Club, already mentioned for its top-rated and championship courses, is also a private club. The club’s rich history, exceptional facilities, and renowned golf courses make it a sought-after destination for those looking for an exclusive golfing experience.

Belvedere Golf Club

Belvedere Golf Club, mentioned earlier as a historic course, is a private club that offers an intimate and exclusive golfing experience. Its traditional design and well-preserved character make it a special place for members who appreciate the history and heritage of the game.

Orchard Lake Country Club

Orchard Lake Country Club, located in Orchard Lake Village, offers an exclusive golfing experience amidst beautiful surroundings. The club’s private course, designed by Harry Colt, provides an elegant and well-manicured setting for members to enjoy the game.

Indianwood Golf and Country Club

Indianwood Golf and Country Club, mentioned earlier for its historic charm, is a private club that caters to golf enthusiasts seeking exclusivity. The club’s course, set within a scenic landscape, offers a challenging and private golfing experience.

Links-Style Courses

For golfers who dream of experiencing the unique challenges of links-style golf, Michigan offers several courses that emulate the classic links layouts found in Scotland and Ireland.

Forest Dunes Golf Club

Forest Dunes Golf Club, already mentioned as a top-rated and championship course, also stands out as a links-style gem. The course’s fescue-lined fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens emulate the challenging and natural characteristics of traditional links golf.

Tullymore Golf Resort

Tullymore Golf Resort, with its two championship courses, offers golfers the opportunity to experience a links-style adventure in the heart of Michigan. The resort’s courses feature wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating dunes, ensuring a true links experience.

Boyne Highlands – The Heather

The Heather course at Boyne Highlands, mentioned earlier as a resort course, also emulates the spirit of links golf. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course incorporates the natural undulations of the terrain and features pot bunkers, mounding, and fescue, creating a true links experience.

Belvedere Golf Club

Belvedere Golf Club, in addition to its historical significance, is also known for its links-style design. The course’s traditional layout, fast-running fairways, and large, undulating greens provide an authentic links golf experience.

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe, already mentioned as a public course, offers golfers the opportunity to play a links-style layout. The course’s open and rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and firm playing conditions create an authentic links experience.

Parkland Courses

For golfers who prefer a more traditional and tree-lined golfing experience, Michigan’s parkland courses offer a welcome retreat.

Forest Dunes Golf Club

Forest Dunes Golf Club, known for its top-rated and links-style course, also offers a parkland course. The course, named The Loop, provides a unique and enjoyable round of golf with its reversible design and lush fairways lined with mature trees.

Tullymore Golf Resort

Tullymore Golf Resort, already mentioned as a championship and links-style resort, also boasts a parkland course. With its tree-lined fairways, strategic hazards, and beautifully landscaped surroundings, the course provides a tranquil and picturesque golfing experience.

Boyne Highlands – The Heather

The parkland-style Heather course at Boyne Highlands, mentioned earlier as part of the resort, offers golfers a traditional and scenic round. Surrounded by mature trees and featuring well-placed bunkers, this course provides a classic parkland golf experience.

Belvedere Golf Club

Belvedere Golf Club, in addition to its historic and links-style design, offers a parkland-style course. The course’s tree-lined fairways, small greens, and gentle elevation changes create a peaceful and enjoyable setting for a round of golf.

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe, known for its public accessibility, provides a parkland golfing experience. The course’s tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and manicured conditions combine to create a relaxing and picturesque round of golf.

In conclusion, Michigan offers a wide array of golf courses to suit every golfer’s preference and skill level. Whether you’re seeking a top-rated course, a championship challenge, a scenic retreat, a historic gem, a hidden treasure, a luxurious resort experience, a public course accessible to all, a private club for exclusivity, a links-style adventure, or a parkland escape, Michigan has something for everyone. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off on some of the best golf courses in the Great Lakes State.

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John Tucker
Hi there! My name is John Tucker, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the Golfweek Store website. As an avid golfer and enthusiast, I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the world of golf. I have been deeply immersed in the golf industry for over a decade, which has allowed me to gain a strong understanding of the game and its nuances. Throughout my journey, I have achieved several notable accomplishments, including being the proud recipient of various prizes and awards. My passion for golf extends beyond personal achievements. I have dedicated my energy to sharing my expertise and insights with fellow golf enthusiasts through my writing. Over the years, I have contributed to numerous golf-related publications, both online and offline, providing valuable tips, strategies, and in-depth analyses of the sport. When it comes to golf, I firmly believe that it's not just a game; it's a way of life. I approach my writing with a genuine passion, aiming to inspire and help golfers elevate their game to new heights. My goal is to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, no matter their skill level. In addition to my golf expertise, I strive to inject personality into my writing, ensuring that each article reflects my unique voice and perspective. I believe that golf is not only about technique and skill, but also about camaraderie, sportsmanship, and fun. Through my writing, I aim to capture the essence of the game and convey it to readers in an engaging and relatable manner.