When it comes to golfing in the Midwest, Iowa is a hidden treasure. In this blog post, we will unveil the top 10 golf courses in Iowa, showcasing their exceptional layouts, scenic beauty, and impressive amenities. Whether you’re a local golfer or planning a golfing getaway to the Hawkeye State, get ready to explore some of the most popular and well-regarded courses that Iowa has to offer.
1. The Harvester Golf Club – Rhodes
Located in Rhodes, The Harvester Golf Club is a championship course designed by Keith Foster. The course offers a unique blend of prairie and links-style golf, with rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and picturesque views. Golfers can also enjoy the club’s practice facilities and elegant clubhouse.
2. Tournament Club of Iowa – Polk City
Designed by Arnold Palmer, the Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience. The course features undulating fairways, well-placed hazards, and fast greens. Golfers can also take advantage of the club’s amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and clubhouse.
3. Davenport Country Club – Pleasant Valley
Davenport Country Club in Pleasant Valley is a private club with a rich history. The course, designed by Charles B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor, offers a classic parkland layout with tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and pristine greens. Golfers can also indulge in the club’s dining options and social events.
4. Blue Top Ridge Golf Course – Riverside
Blue Top Ridge Golf Course in Riverside is a premier public course designed by Rees Jones. The course showcases dramatic elevation changes, challenging water features, and well-manicured greens. Golfers can also enjoy the clubhouse amenities and panoramic views of the Iowa countryside.
5. Spirit Hollow Golf Course – Burlington
Spirit Hollow Golf Course in Burlington is known for its picturesque setting and immaculate conditioning. Designed by Rick Jacobson, the course offers a mix of tree-lined fairways, strategic water hazards, and undulating greens. Golfers can also practice their skills at the driving range and enjoy the club’s hospitality.
6. Wakonda Club – Des Moines
Wakonda Club in Des Moines is a private club with a challenging and beautifully maintained course. Designed by William Langford, the course features rolling terrain, well-placed bunkers, and mature trees. Golfers can also take advantage of the club’s practice facilities and upscale clubhouse.
7. Amana Colonies Golf Club – Amana
Amana Colonies Golf Club in Amana is a scenic course nestled in the heart of Iowa’s historic Amana Colonies. The course, designed by Robert Lohmann, offers a tranquil golfing experience with tree-lined fairways, meandering streams, and gentle elevation changes. Golfers can also relax at the clubhouse and enjoy the charming Amana community.
8. Otter Creek Golf Course – Ankeny
Otter Creek Golf Course in Ankeny is a public course known for its challenging layout and beautiful surroundings. Designed by Dick Phelps, the course features tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and water hazards. Golfers can also utilize the practice facilities and enjoy the welcoming clubhouse.
9. Hyperion Field Club – Johnston
Hyperion Field Club in Johnston is a private club with a well-regarded golf course. Designed by Art Schaupeter, the course offers a blend of wooded and prairie-style holes, with strategic bunkering and undulating greens. Golfers can also enjoy the club’s amenities, including dining options and social events.
10. Ames Golf & Country Club – Ames
Ames Golf & Country Club in Ames is a prestigious private club with a challenging yet enjoyable golf course. The course, designed by William Diddel and updated by Tom Fazio, offers a mix of tree-lined fairways, strategic water hazards, and well-manicured greens. Golfers can also take advantage of the club’s practice facilities, upscale clubhouse, and dining options.
Conclusion
Iowa may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of golf, but the top 10 golf courses in Iowa prove that the Hawkeye State has much to offer to golf enthusiasts. From championship courses designed by renowned architects to picturesque settings and impeccable amenities, these courses provide an unforgettable golfing experience.
Whether you’re a local golfer looking to explore the best courses in Iowa or a visitor planning a golfing trip, these courses offer a variety of challenges and beauty. Discover the hidden gems of the Hawkeye State, tee off on the lush fairways, and enjoy the warm hospitality that awaits you at these top-notch golf courses.
So, grab your clubs and experience the best of golf in Iowa. From challenging layouts to stunning landscapes, these top 10 golf courses in Iowa are sure to satisfy every golfer’s appetite for a memorable round of golf.