Wisconsin, renowned for its cheese and scenic landscapes, is a haven for golf enthusiasts, featuring some of the nation’s most beautiful and challenging courses.
With Erin Hills’ rolling greens and Whistling Straits’ breathtaking views, each course offers unique experiences, well-maintained fairways, diverse layouts, and excellent facilities.
Ready to explore? Here are the top 10 golf courses in Wisconsin every golfer should visit. From the stunning coastal views of Whistling Straits to the lush, emerald fairways of Blackwolf Run, every course is a testament to Wisconsin’s rich golfing heritage.
Whether you seek a championship challenge or a relaxed 18 holes, these courses promise unforgettable rounds.
Next on our list is SentryWorld, known for its vibrant flower hole, and The Bull at Pinehurst Farms, where nature and design intertwine flawlessly. Additionally, Lawsonia and Sand Valley offer a mix of historic charm and modern innovation.
10 Best Golf Courses in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s picturesque landscapes and challenging golf courses make it a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. Discover the top 10 courses that every golfer should experience in the Badger State.
1. Whistling Straits (Straits)
Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, designed by Pete Dye, offers an unforgettable golfing experience with its windswept fairways, challenging bunkers, and undulating greens, along with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
The course, having hosted prestigious tournaments like the PGA Championship, features notable holes such as the par-4 8th and the difficult 17th. It also provides excellent facilities including a pro shop, practice areas, and dining options.
Another must-play course by Pete Dye is Blackwolf Run, known for its challenging layout, strategic water hazards, and scenic views. Having hosted events like the U.S. Women’s Open, it promises a rewarding round of golf.
2. Blackwolf Run (River)
Blackwolf Run (River), designed by Pete Dye, is celebrated for its beautiful interaction with the Sheboygan River, affecting 14 out of its 18 holes and integrating seamlessly into Wisconsin’s natural terrain.
Recognized as one of the top public courses in the US, it demands precision and strategy, especially on signature holes like the par-5 9th.
Another top destination, Whistling Straits (Straits), also designed by Dye, features dramatic bluffs along Lake Michigan and has hosted major championships, providing golfers with a challenging and visually stunning experience.
With its rugged terrain and breathtaking views, Whistling Straits is a must-play for any golf enthusiast.
3. Milwaukee Country Club
Milwaukee Country Club is considered one of Wisconsin’s top golf courses, enhanced by recent upgrades from Tom Doak and Don Placek.
These improvements include tree removals that reveal uninterrupted views of the Milwaukee River, amplifying the course’s natural beauty.
The club offers pristine conditions and a timeless design, with holes along the river providing both challenging play and serene landscapes.
Another standout course is Whistling Straits in Kohler, famed for hosting major championships and offering dramatic views of Lake Michigan. Designed by Pete Dye, this links-style course is a must-play for golfers seeking a challenge.
4. Erin Hills Golf Course
Erin Hills, nestled in Hartford, stands out as Wisconsin’s crown jewel. Voted the 9th Best Public Course in the U.S. by Golf Digest, it’s a magnet for golf enthusiasts.
The glacier-carved landscape offers natural undulations that elevate the gaming experience. Players appreciate the careful balance between fun and difficulty from tee to green. Designed for strategic and imaginative play, every hole presents a unique challenge.
Alongside its breathtaking scenery, Erin Hills boasts world-class facilities and outstanding service. Whether you’re a seasoned player or an enthusiastic novice, a visit to this course promises an unforgettable round of golf that will make you eager to return.
5. Whistling Straits (Irish)
The Irish Course at Whistling Straits is equally as impressive as its famed sibling. Golfers praise the design’s variety, with distinct bunkering, elevation changes, and rolling greens. Pot bunkers and wiry fescue grasses create an authentic Irish experience.
However, lush fairways, ponds, and streams throughout offer a modern twist on the traditional links style. Known for meticulous attention to detail, the Irish Course delivers a top-tier golfing experience in Sheboygan.
And let’s not forget the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, which enhance the overall ambiance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic amateur, the Irish Course offers a memorable challenge.
6. Blackwolf Run (Meadow Valleys)
Meadow Valleys at Blackwolf Run stands out among Wisconsin’s golf courses for its stunning setting and intricate design. It’s characterized by sprawling meadows, deep valleys, and dramatic ravines.
Golfers love the course’s natural beauty, which blends effortlessly with its strategic layout. This hidden gem among Destination Kohler’s four courses is a favorite for both local and visiting golfers.
Offering a challenging yet rewarding experience, each hole is thoughtfully designed to test players’ skills while providing breathtaking views. Meadow Valleys truly lives up to its name, embodying the blend of nature and sport.
7. Sand Valley Golf Resort
Established in 2017, Sand Valley Golf Resort has quickly ascended to the top ranks of Wisconsin’s golf courses. Encompassing five distinct courses, the resort includes the standout short course, the Sandbox.
Each course offers unique experiences but shares common features like firm, fast fescue turf and links-inspired designs. Golfers will appreciate the visual splendor and the strategic challenges of the layouts.
The design philosophies prioritize natural landforms, enhancing both the beauty and difficulty of play. Sand Valley’s commitment to quality has positioned it as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable round.
8. Blue Mound Golf & Country Club
Designed by Seth Raynor in 1926, Blue Mound Golf & Country Club holds historical significance as the first Wisconsin course to host a major tournament: the 1933 PGA Championship.
Its recent renovation highlights the stunning land it occupies, starting with relatively flat opening holes and progressing to more dramatic elevation changes.
Golfers often find Blue Mound “fun” yet challenging. The course features inventive green complexes including a Redan, Double Plateau, and Biarritz, making par attainable but not guaranteed.
As one of Wisconsin’s top courses, Blue Mound balances excitement with difficulty, exemplifying a perfect blend of history and modern play.
9. Pine Hills Country Club
Pine Hills Country Club, nestled in Sheboygan, is renowned for its rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Pigeon River. The course’s glacier-carved landscape and manicured fairways make it a standout.
The opening hole, with its elevation changes and complex green, sets the tone for the rest of the round. Despite being just 6,481 yards from the back tees, the course’s small, undulating greens provide a unique challenge.
Golfers may find their scorecards climbing due to these tricky putting surfaces. Pine Hills offers an engaging experience that combines natural beauty with strategic play, making it one of Wisconsin’s top golf destinations.
10. Geneva National Resort & Club
Geneva National Resort & Club stands as one of the premier golf destinations in Wisconsin. Situated along the picturesque shores of Lake Como, this semi-private club offers 54 holes of world-class golf.
Players can experience stunning courses designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
Nestled in the Midwest, Geneva National’s unique landscapes and meticulously maintained greens make it a standout. Golfers planning their trip can enjoy a hassle-free experience by shipping their golf clubs in advance.
This added convenience ensures they can focus entirely on the game and soak in the breathtaking scenery without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many top golf courses are there in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin features 10 golf courses in Golf Digest’s 2024 list of “America’s Top 100 Public Courses,” more than any other state in the country.
What are some notable golf courses in Wisconsin?
Some notable courses include Erin Hills, Whistling Straits, Blackwolf Run, Sand Valley Golf Resort, Pine Hills Country Club, and Geneva National Resort & Club.
What makes Sand Valley Golf Resort special?
Established in 2017, Sand Valley Golf Resort quickly gained prominence for its links-inspired courses, offering unique playability and stunning landscapes.
Where is Pine Hills Country Club located and what makes it unique?
Pine Hills Country Club is located in Sheboygan, renowned for its glacier-carved landscape, challenging greens, and breathtaking views of the Pigeon River.
What is special about Geneva National Resort & Club?
Geneva National Resort & Club offers 54 holes of world-class golf designed by legends Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino, set along Lake Como with unique and meticulously maintained landscapes.
Conclusion
Choosing the best golf course in Wisconsin is challenging due to the state’s exceptional options. Courses like Erin Hills and Whistling Straits offer challenging layouts, while Sand Valley and Pine Hills provide stunning vistas and strategic fairways.
Designed by legends such as Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, these courses ensure memorable rounds for golfers of all skill levels. Highlights include the University Ridge Golf Course in Madison and Lawsonia Golf Links in Green Lake.
Plan your trip to experience the top 10 courses and enjoy Wisconsin’s blend of natural beauty and top-tier golfing amenities.
Don’t miss out on Blackwolf Run in Kohler and SentryWorld in Stevens Point, both known for their immaculate conditions and world-class facilities. Book your tee times early to secure a spot on these premier courses.
Colin McCarthy