Best Golf Courses in Iowa
While states like California, Arizona, and Florida may first come to mind when thinking of golf destinations, there are some spectacular courses spread across just about every state in the union – including Iowa. When it comes to carving beautiful and challenging tracks out of the prairie, golf courses in Iowa may have perfected the art. Here are just three of the best golf courses in Iowa that are frequently mentioned by avid golfers and local golf lovers as being among their all-time favorite places to play.
Located in Ankeny, Iowa, Otter Creek Golf Course has consistently ranked as one of the best golf courses in Iowa for several years. Designed by Paul Miller to offer golfers of every skill level a few great challenges and an enjoyable round each time, the course welcomes players to really go for it on several holes. The 47 bunkers and 17 ponds, along with the tall grass and prairie winds, make sure to keep you honest and give you pause for shot line and club selection.
Marion, Iowa’s Hunters Ridge Golf Course, opened in 1997, has been a favorite of Iowa golfers and players from across the country for many years as well. Measuring in at just a shade over 7,000 yards from the back tees, the course features a great blend of short and long holes. The front nine eases you into your round with good sized landing areas and greens that give you a good look and a good shot at starting your scorecard strong. But don’t be fooled; the 50+ bunkers, 613-yard par-5 17th hole, and plenty of other interesting challenges along the way will make sure you get the chance to test your game.
While it’s just nine holes of golf, Stone Creek Golf Club in Williamsburg, Iowa is regularly mentioned by avid golfers as their favorite location for a quick-yet-challenging round. The well-manicured and well-maintained greenery, rolling fairways, unique and fast-rolling greens, and 18 bunkers placed perfectly throughout mean you can squeeze a lot of enjoyment into a short morning or afternoon tee time. Once you’ve played it, you’ll see why Stone Creek Golf Club has been selected as a nine-hole course of the year and one of the 25 best nine-hole courses in America.