The Midwest, often referred to as America’s heartland, is a vibrant tapestry of rolling plains, sweeping landscapes, and shimmering lakes. These features have given rise to some of the most acclaimed golf courses in the U.S. Combining traditional design with modern innovation, these courses capture the essence of Midwest charm while offering world-class golfing experiences.
Here are the top 10 golf courses in the Midwest that are a must-visit for every golf aficionado.
1. Whistling Straits (Straits Course) – Haven, Wisconsin
- Overview: A Pete Dye-designed gem, it mimics the traditional links courses of the UK.
- Signature Hole: Par-3 17th, offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Tournaments Hosted: PGA Championship, Ryder Cup.
- Facilities: Multiple courses, luxury accommodations, spa.
- Location: N8501 Lakeshore Rd, Sheboygan, WI 53083.
- Contact Details: (920) 565-6050
2. Oakland Hills Country Club (South Course) – Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
- Overview: Historically significant, it’s one of the Midwest’s premier golf destinations.
- Signature Hole: Par-4 16th, with its undulating green.
- Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Open, PGA Championship.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, dining, pool.
- Location: 3951 W Maple Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301.
- Contact Details: (248) 644-2500
3. Hazeltine National Golf Club – Chaska, Minnesota
- Overview: A challenging layout that has tested the world’s best.
- Signature Hole: Par-3 8th, with water guarding the green.
- Tournaments Hosted: Ryder Cup, U.S. Open.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, practice facilities.
- Location: 1900 Hazeltine Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318.
- Contact Details: (952) 556-5400
4. Medinah Country Club (Course No.3) – Medinah, Illinois
- Overview: Known for its iconic clubhouse and pristine layout.
- Signature Hole: Par-4 15th, with Lake Kadijah in play.
- Tournaments Hosted: Ryder Cup, PGA Championship.
- Facilities: Three courses, pool, dining.
- Location: 6N001 Medinah Rd, Medinah, IL 60157.
- Contact Details: (630) 773-1700
5. Interlachen Country Club – Edina, Minnesota
- Overview: A classic design featuring rolling terrains and strategic bunkering.
- Signature Hole: Par-3 9th, with its island green.
- Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, pool, tennis courts.
- Location: 6200 Interlachen Blvd, Edina, MN 55436.
- Contact Details: (952) 929-1661
6. Erin Hills – Erin, Wisconsin
- Overview: Known for its windswept fairways and fescue grasses.
- Signature Hole: Par-5 18th, offering panoramic views.
- Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Open.
- Facilities: Lodge accommodations, dining.
- Location: 7169 Co Rd O, Hartford, WI 53027.
- Contact Details: (866) 772-4769
7. Chicago Golf Club – Wheaton, Illinois
- Overview: One of the five charter clubs of the USGA.
- Signature Hole: Par-4 6th, with its cross bunkers.
- Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Open, U.S. Amateur.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, caddy program.
- Location: 25W253 Warrenville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189.
- Contact Details: Membership by private invitation only.
8. Prairie Dunes Country Club – Hutchinson, Kansas
- Overview: A links-style course set amidst the heartland’s prairies.
- Signature Hole: Par-4 9th, with its elevated green.
- Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Senior Open.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, dining.
- Location: 4812 E 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502.
- Contact Details: (620) 662-0581
9. The Dunes Club – New Buffalo, Michigan
- Overview: A minimalist design offering a pure golfing experience.
- Signature Hole: Par-3 6th, with its deep pot bunkers.
- Tournaments Hosted: Various regional events.
- Facilities: Clubhouse.
- Location: 10600 Marquette Dr, New Buffalo, MI 49117.
- Contact Details: (269) 469-5539
10. Sand Hills Golf Club – Mullen, Nebraska
- Overview: Set in the Sandhills of Nebraska, it offers a pure golfing experience amidst natural dunes.
- Signature Hole: Par-4 18th, encapsulating the essence of the course’s natural beauty.
- Tournaments Hosted: Various invitational events.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, practice areas.
- Location: 36410 Sandhills Rd, Mullen, NE 69152.
- Contact Details: Membership and contact primarily through private channels.
From the shores of the Great Lakes to the dunes of Nebraska, the Midwest offers an eclectic range of golfing experiences. These courses, with their storied histories and challenging designs, remain must-visits for any avid golfer.
