Iowa is not only known for its cornfields and small towns but is also a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. The state offers a variety of courses suitable for different skill levels, combining natural beauty with challenging play.
With lush fairways, meticulously maintained greens, and picturesque landscapes, Iowa provides a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
Explore the top 10 golf courses in the state that promise an exceptional outing for both seasoned pros and weekend warriors.
From the iconic Spirit Hollow Golf Course with its undulating terrain to the scenic settings of the Amana Colonies Golf Club, each course delivers its own distinctive charm.
Whether you’re teeing off at the Tournament Club of Iowa or enjoying the serene ambiance at Bos Landen Golf Club, golf in Iowa offers something special for everyone.
Unveiling Iowa’s Top 10 Golf Courses for Every Golfer
Discover Iowa’s best golf destinations with our guide to the top 10 courses. From lush fairways to stunning views, find your next favorite course in the Hawkeye State.
1. Spirit Hollow Golf Club
Spirit Hollow Golf Club in Southeast Iowa, set on a 400-acre former cattle ranch, is acclaimed as one of Iowa’s top public golf courses for its challenging and scenic layout.
It boasts a world-class practice facility, a pro shop, dining options, and lodging at The Lodge at Spirit Hollow. Tournament Club of Iowa, located in Polk City, is the state’s only Arnold Palmer Signature Course and is renowned for its natural beauty and challenging design.
It features extensive practice facilities, a pro shop, and a welcoming clubhouse, making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
2. Tournament Club of Iowa
Designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer and his design company, Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City is nestled next to Big Creek State Park. Elevation changes mark its beautiful layout, creating a dynamic golfing experience.
Golfers will enjoy the challenge as it winds through forests, offering picturesque views at every turn. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the most scenic public courses in Iowa, perfect for those seeking both beauty and challenge in their game.
Next on our list is the Amana Colonies Golf Club in Amana. Known for its rolling hills and meticulously maintained greens, this course provides a serene yet challenging experience for golfers of all levels.
3. Amana Colonies Golf Club
Amana Colonies Golf Club in Amana, Iowa, offers one of the toughest golfing challenges in the state. Spanning 500 acres of towering timber, this course demands precise shot-making.
Golfers find breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife all around. Each hole at Amana Colonies has its unique challenge, from water hazards to strategically placed bunkers.
The natural beauty enhances the rugged difficulty, making it essential to bring your “A game.” Renowned for its meticulous course maintenance and design, it’s a favorite among serious golf enthusiasts.
Designed for precision, Amana Colonies stands out as a must-play course in Iowa.
4. Blue Top Ridge
Located at Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, Blue Top Ridge in Riverside, Iowa, stands out for its unique playability.
The course caters to golfers of all levels with its wide-open landscape and rolling terrain. Dramatic elevation changes, especially on the back nine, add visual appeal and challenge.
The standout feature is the 665-yard par-5 16th, the longest golf hole in Iowa. This specific hole exemplifies the course’s blend of beauty and challenge, making every round memorable.
Perfect for those seeking both scenic views and a test of skill, Blue Top Ridge ensures an enjoyable experience for everyone.
5. The Legacy Golf Club
The Legacy Golf Club offers a well-maintained, challenging layout in Norwalk, just south of Des Moines.
The front nine weaves through a newer residential neighborhood, providing an engaging start. The back nine transitions to Norwalk’s countryside, adding variety and natural beauty to the round.
Players appreciate the strategic design that tests their skills while offering scenic views. Golfers of all levels find something appealing here, making it a favorite.
The club also garners praise for its excellent maintenance and friendly staff, providing a top-tier experience among Iowa’s golf courses.
6. The Ridge Golf Club
The Ridge Golf Club, located in Sioux Center, Iowa, stands out as a hidden gem in the state’s golf scene. Opened in 2009, this links-style course features firm, fast greens and challenges golfers with its frequent winds.
The course’s design ensures an engaging experience, keeping players on their toes with its demanding layout. Golf enthusiasts appreciate The Ridge for its well-maintained fairways and the unique test it provides.
With its scenic views and high-quality playing conditions, The Ridge Golf Club has rapidly earned a reputation as one of Iowa’s must-visit courses.
7. Honey Creek Golf Club
Honey Creek Golf Club, nestled near Ledges State Park south of Boone, offers a picturesque golfing experience at an affordable price. The course presents a contrast between the flat front nine and the scenic back nine.
Players find the front nine ideal for building momentum, while the back nine runs along a scenic river valley and challenges every aspect of their golfing skills.
The varied terrain and beautiful views make Honey Creek a standout choice for golfers looking for both relaxation and a test of skill.
8. Waveland Golf Course
Waveland Golf Course, located in the heart of Des Moines, stands as the oldest municipal golf course west of the Mississippi River. Designed by Warren Dickenson and Tom Bendelow, it showcases a parkland-style layout that demands precision.
Accuracy is essential here due to its mature, tree-lined fairways. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the challenge provided by the narrow paths and strategic bunkering.
Waveland’s history and design intricacies make it a must-play destination for those visiting Iowa. Its unique combination of scenic beauty and historical significance adds to the golfing experience, offering a blend of tradition and challenge.
9. Bent Tree Golf Course
Bent Tree Golf Course, situated in the picturesque Loess Hills region near Council Bluffs, offers a unique golfing experience. This links-style course features gently rolling terrain and expansive greens, making it both challenging and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.
One standout feature of Bent Tree is its finishing hole. The 185-yard, par-3 hole plays downhill and incorporates both water and sand hazards. This hole tests players’ precision and strategic thinking, adding a memorable conclusion to the round.
Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, Bent Tree Golf Course provides stunning vistas and a strategy-oriented layout. It’s an ideal destination for golfers seeking both beauty and challenge.
10. Stone Creek Golf Club
Stone Creek Golf Club in Williamsburg offers one of the top nine-hole courses in Iowa. Designed by five-time PGA Tour champion D.A. Weibring, its layout features well-manicured fairways, nearly 20 bunkers, and gently sloping greens.
Golfers appreciate the strategic challenges the bunkers pose and the variety the fairways offer. The course’s greens maintain a balance between challenge and playability, making it suitable for both seasoned golfers and newcomers.
Stone Creek’s serene environment, combined with its meticulously designed landscape, ensures a memorable experience for anyone looking to enjoy a round of golf in Iowa.
Facilities You Will Get in the Golf Courses in Iowa
Golf courses in Iowa offer a variety of amenities to enhance your experience. Clubhouses provide comfortable spaces to relax and grab a bite. Pro shops stock the latest gear and apparel. Practice ranges with putting greens help golfers hone their skills.
Several courses feature on-site dining with diverse menus. Locker rooms ensure convenience for players. Equipped carts are often available for hire. Some courses offer golf lessons from seasoned professionals.
Many facilities include event spaces for tournaments and celebrations. Scenic trails allow for casual strolling between games. Finally, well-maintained fairways and greens set the stage for an exceptional round of golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Legacy Golf Club unique?
The Legacy Golf Club offers a unique experience with its beautifully designed course, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to excellent customer service. It caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Why is The Ridge Golf Club popular among golf enthusiasts?
The Ridge Golf Club is known for its scenic vistas and well-maintained greens, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf lovers. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among local and visiting golfers.
What amenities does Honey Creek Golf Club offer?
Honey Creek Golf Club offers affordable rates, picturesque views near Ledges State Park, and a well-maintained golf course, ensuring a satisfying round of golf for players of all abilities.
What is the historical significance of Waveland Golf Course in Des Moines?
Waveland Golf Course is the oldest municipal golf course west of the Mississippi River. Its historical roots and challenging design make it a notable choice for both history buffs and avid golfers.
What makes Bent Tree Golf Course near Council Bluffs unique?
Bent Tree Golf Course features a links-style layout with a strategic finishing hole that offers a mix of challenge and enjoyment. It’s a top choice for those looking for variety in their golfing experience.
Conclusion
Iowa offers a variety of top-tier golf courses, each brimming with unique features and amenities. From the historical Waveland Golf Course in Des Moines to the strategic layout of Bent Tree Golf Course near Council Bluffs, golf enthusiasts can find an array of appealing options.
These courses boast comfortable clubhouses, pro shops, practice ranges, and on-site dining. Players also benefit from well-maintained fairways and greens, which enhance the overall golfing experience.
Furthermore, facilities like locker rooms, golf lessons, and event spaces contribute to their appeal. Whether they’re seasoned players or beginners, golfers are sure to discover exceptional rounds of golf throughout Iowa.
Adding to the allure, many of these courses host regional and national tournaments, offering spectators and participants a chance to witness top-level play.
Additionally, the scenic beauty of Iowa’s landscapes, from rolling hills to serene lakes, provides a picturesque backdrop for your game. Golfers can enjoy seasonal variations that test different skills and provide a fresh challenge with each visit.
Colin McCarthy