Best Golf Courses in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting 43 courses within a 15-mile radius of the city center. This paradise offers a diverse selection of 26 public and 16 private courses, suitable for all skill levels. With 27 18-hole layouts and 14 nine-hole options, the city’s golf scene is truly remarkable.

The landscape of Atlanta’s golf scene is ever-evolving. In 2023, seven of Georgia’s top 20 courses underwent or planned renovations. The Lookout Mountain Club, for instance, was awarded Golf Digest’s Best Renovation for 2023. This dedication to quality ensures that top-tier golfing experiences are always available in Atlanta.

Green fees in Atlanta vary from an economical $29 to a high-end $155+, with an average of about $72. This range allows players to select courses that match their budget and style. Whether you’re up for a quick nine-hole game or a full-scale championship challenge, Atlanta’s courses have something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Atlanta offers 43 golf courses within a 15-mile radius
• There’s a mix of 26 public and 16 private courses
• Green fees range from $29 to $155+
• Seven top courses started renovations in 2023
• Lookout Mountain Club won Best Renovation award for 2023
• Atlanta’s golf scene caters to all skill levels and budgets

Discovering Atlanta’s Golfing Paradise

Atlanta’s golf scene is a true paradise for enthusiasts. The city boasts a rich tapestry of courses, each with its own unique features and design. From historic clubs to modern layouts, you’ll find a diverse range of golfing experiences that cater to all skill levels.

East Lake Golf Club, established in 1904, holds the distinction of being Atlanta’s oldest course. It’s now the permanent host of the PGA Tour Championship, showcasing its world-class status. The course’s design has stood the test of time, offering challenging play and stunning views.

For those seeking variety, Stone Mountain Golf Club presents 36 holes of championship golf. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., these courses feature breathtaking landscapes and strategic layouts that will test your skills.

If you’re looking for something unique, Bobby Jones Golf Course offers a reversible layout. This innovative design allows for varied experiences, keeping the game fresh and exciting with each visit.

Greens fees and rates vary across Atlanta’s golf courses, reflecting their diverse offerings:

• Public courses often have more affordable pricing
• Private clubs typically require membership for access
• Some semi-private courses offer public tee times at premium rates

Atlanta’s golf paradise extends beyond just playing. Many clubs offer premium amenities, practice facilities, and dining experiences. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious golfer, Atlanta’s courses promise unforgettable rounds amidst beautiful Southern scenery.

Stone Mountain Golf Club: A Robert Trent Jones Sr. Design

Located just 30 minutes from Atlanta, Stone Mountain Golf Club presents a premier golfing experience. The club, designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1969, features two championship courses. These courses cater to golfers of all skill levels.

The Stonemont Course is slightly favored by golfers, offering unique challenges with its bent grass greens. It features standout holes with stunning views of the landscape. The Lakemont Course also presents a distinct set of challenges for players.

While fees at Stone Mountain are reasonable, remember to factor in the $20 parking fee. To enhance your experience, consider using a golf rangefinder. This tool can improve your accuracy and help lower your scores.

With a year-round golf season and recent renovations, Stone Mountain Golf Club is a top choice for Atlanta golfers. The club boasts an average rating of 3.5 stars from 570 reviews. This reflects its consistent quality and enduring appeal.

Bear’s Best Atlanta: Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest Hits

In Suwanee, just 45 minutes from Atlanta, Bear’s Best Atlanta presents a distinctive golf outing. This exceptional course features 18 holes, meticulously chosen from Jack Nicklaus’ global portfolio. It showcases his design brilliance.

18 Holes from Worldwide Nicklaus Designs

Each hole at Bear’s Best Atlanta mirrors a hole from renowned Nicklaus-designed courses. You’ll encounter elements from Sherwood Country Club, Shoal Creek, PGA National, and Muirfield Village. This blend of European and American course features offers a unique golfing experience.

Premium Practice Facilities

Bear’s Best Atlanta features superior practice facilities. Enhance your swing at the driving range or refine your short game on the putting greens. These amenities prepare you for the course’s diverse challenges.

Upscale Dining Experience

Post-game, unwind at the clubhouse’s upscale dining area. It’s an ideal spot to relax, discuss your game, and enjoy tasty meals and drinks.

Bear’s Best Atlanta boasts a variety of unique features. The course design accommodates different skill levels with various tee options. Players will face strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens. The experience extends beyond golf, with charity tournaments and streamlined event planning services available.

Charlie Yates Golf Course

Charlie Yates Golf Course in Atlanta, Georgia, presents a distinctive golfing experience. Designed by Rees Jones and Greg Muirhead in 1998, this compact layout covers 1953 yards with a par of 30. It’s ideal for those aiming to refine their short game and enhance their slope rating skills.

The course features Bent Grass greens and Bermuda Grass fairways, ensuring excellent conditions throughout the year. Green fees vary, yet the course is highly valued by golfers. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 482 reviews, its quality is evident.

Booking a tee time at Charlie Yates is straightforward, but securing a spot early is advised. The course can be busy, especially during peak hours. Despite occasional slow play due to its executive Par 3 layout, most golfers find the experience worthwhile.

Despite its compact size, Charlie Yates presents unique challenges. Many reviewers liken the fast, true greens to those at Augusta National. The course layout, rated 4.4 out of 5, offers a variety of holes that challenge your short game skills.

Located at 10 Lakeside Dr., Atlanta, GA 30317, Charlie Yates Golf Course is conveniently situated. The comprehensive driving range and short game facility make it perfect for practice. Bucket prices range from $9.50 to $13, providing affordable options for golfers at all levels.

Bobby Jones Golf Course

Since its opening in 1933, Bobby Jones Golf Course has provided a distinctive golfing experience in Atlanta. Renovated in the early 2000s, it honors the legendary golfer Bobby Jones. It’s the only reversible public course in the South, sprawling over 128 acres of greenery.

The course’s layout is circular, similar to the Old Course at St. Andrews. It offers two distinct layouts: the Azalea and the Magnolia. With eight tee options, it welcomes golfers of every skill level.

Starting at $45 for a nine-hole walk, the course is perfect for both beginners and experts. Its unique features include short par-5 holes and challenging par-3s, such as the 223-yard second hole and the 195-yard seventh hole from the tips.

For booking information, visit the course’s website or call them directly. The staff’s friendliness is rated 4.6 out of 5. While some find it pricey, many praise its top-notch conditions, layout, and amenities.

Echelon Golf Club: A Rees Jones Masterpiece

Located less than an hour north of Atlanta, Echelon Golf Club showcases Rees Jones’ exceptional design skills. This semi-private club invites golfers to a course that harmoniously combines challenge with aesthetic appeal.

Breathtaking Elevation Changes

The layout of Echelon leverages the natural terrain’s rolling hills. Its course rating of 77.2 and slope of 149 from the back tees highlight its challenging nature. Golfers will encounter wide fairways and flexible tee shots, especially on the par-4 5th hole.

Scenic 600-Acre Property Views

Players are treated to sweeping vistas of the landscape as they play. The par-5 11th hole, with its strategic complexity, offers a unique challenge set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery.

Semi-Private Club with Public Access

Echelon extends an invitation to both members and daily fee players, ensuring everyone can experience its exceptional facilities. Georgia’s favorable golfing climate throughout the year adds to its appeal.

Echelon Golf Club presents a superior golfing experience with its demanding layout, picturesque views, and elite facilities. Whether you’re a member or a visitor, you’ll be fully engaged in one of Atlanta’s premier golfing locales.

Chateau Elan Golf Club: Vineyard Vibes and Fairways

In Braselton, just 45 minutes from Atlanta, Chateau Elan Golf Club presents a distinctive golf outing. Spanning 3,500 acres, it features 63 holes across four courses, including three public and one private. The club’s amenities harmonize with its vineyard backdrop, offering a serene getaway for golf lovers.

The Chateau Course, with its recent renovation, is a standout. It boasts breathtaking views of vineyards and rolling hills. The club’s dedication to excellence is clear in its exceptional staff and meticulous course upkeep.

Chateau Elan extends its luxury beyond golf:

• A 35,000 sq ft spa mansion with 14 guest suites
• Seven restaurants, including the award-winning Marc and Sarazen’s Bar and Grille
• A nine-court, Stan Smith-designed Tennis Center
• A pool featuring a stone waterfall and fireside entertainment

The resort’s accommodations are as diverse as they are luxurious. Custom homes range from $400,000 to over $1 million, catering to various tastes. Chateau Elan Golf Club merges golf, luxury, and vineyard allure, creating a unique golfing haven.

The Frog Golf Club: Tom Fazio’s Challenging Creation

In Villa Rica, just 40 minutes from Atlanta, The Frog Golf Club showcases Tom Fazio’s design prowess. This 18-hole masterpiece provides a top-tier experience with its strategic bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens.

Top-Rated Course with Numerous Accolades

The Frog Golf Club is a standout among Atlanta’s elite courses. It boasts a 4.5-star rating from Golf Digest and consistently ranks in the Top 10. This course’s layout, scoring a 4.5 out of 5, highlights Fazio’s ability to craft challenging yet engaging holes.

Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Status

The Frog Golf Club is also recognized as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. This status underscores the course’s dedication to environmental stewardship, merging unique features with nature conservation.

Host of the Georgia Open

The Frog’s prestige is amplified by hosting the Georgia Open. This event attracts top talent, testing the course’s standout holes. Elevation changes across the course add a layer of complexity, requiring players to adapt their strategies.

While The Frog Golf Club excels in many areas, there’s room for improvement in bunker maintenance and fairway conditions. Nevertheless, the course remains a top choice among Atlanta’s daily-fee options. It offers a mix of challenge and beauty, drawing golfers back time and again.

Ansley Golf Club (Settindown Creek): Underrated Excellence

In Roswell, Georgia, the Ansley Golf Club’s Settindown Creek course stands out as a hidden gem. It’s ranked as the 3 1/2th best golf course in Atlanta. This Bob Cupp design combines challenges with scenic views, making it unique among local courses.

The course is relatively flat, making it ideal for walkers, especially on the front nine. As you navigate through, you’ll encounter the Little River, enhancing the course’s natural allure. However, the flat terrain belies strategic challenges that will challenge golfers at all levels.

The 13th hole, a dogleg left, is particularly noteworthy. Its tricky green setup and strategically placed trees make it a favorite yet frustrating hole for many. Features like this highlight the importance of a golf rangefinder on this course.

Throughout the round, you’ll face big trees and large native areas. These elements add to the course’s visual appeal and difficulty. They prompt strategic shot-making, requiring careful consideration for each play.

Despite its high ranking, Settindown Creek is somewhat underappreciated in Atlanta’s golf circles. Its hidden status often means fewer players, allowing you to fully experience its subtle excellence and natural beauty.

Hawks Ridge Golf Club: Secluded Golfing Paradise

In Ball Ground, north of Atlanta, Hawks Ridge Golf Club presents a secluded golfing experience. Designed by Bob Cupp and opened in 1999, it has swiftly become a top-tier course in Georgia.

U.S. Open Sectional Qualifying Host

The course’s challenging layout and superior conditions have made it a U.S. Open Sectional Qualifying host. Ranked as Georgia’s No. 5 golf course by Golf Digest, it draws top-tier players.

No-Tee-Times Policy

Hawks Ridge stands out with its no-tee-times policy. This approach ensures a relaxed pace, enhancing the golfing experience. With a limited membership, groups are well-spaced, offering a more personal and enjoyable round.

Challenging Hilly Terrain

The course features standout holes against a backdrop of hilly terrain. From the gold tees, it measures under 6,800 yards, while the black tees extend to 7,225 yards. This variety caters to all skill levels, presenting unique challenges throughout.

Hawks Ridge Golf Club offers seclusion, challenge, and prestige for a memorable golfing experience. Whether you’re navigating the hilly terrain or honing your short game, this club provides an unmatched experience for avid golfers.

Atlanta Country Club: A Historic Golfing Experience

Founded in 1964, Atlanta Country Club in Marietta is steeped in history and offers breathtaking views. The course features the winding Chattahoochee River and Sope Creek, enhancing the natural beauty. These elements make your golfing experience unique. Significant elevation changes on the course add a thrilling challenge to each hole.

The course’s design leverages the natural landscape, presenting a variety of holes that challenge your skills. You’ll need to use every club in your bag as you tackle the diverse terrain. A golf launch monitor can be invaluable in adapting to the elevation changes and enhancing your game on this demanding course.

Atlanta Country Club’s location near historic Civil War sites adds an intriguing layer to your game. As you play, you might catch glimpses of these landmarks, blending golf with history. The course’s design integrates these elements seamlessly, ensuring an unforgettable golfing experience.

Atlanta Athletic Club (Highlands Course): Championship Pedigree

The Atlanta Athletic Club’s Highlands Course is a paragon of championship golf design. Established in 1898, this historic club presents a course that pushes even the most adept players to their limits. With a length of 7,613 yards from the championship tees, it ranks #148 on Golf Digest’s Top-200 List.

Renovations by Rees Jones have amplified the course’s formidable challenges. Deep bunkers, water hazards, and closely mown run-off areas demand precision and strategy from golfers. The course’s design emphasizes the need for straight, long, and accurately aimed shots.

Several standout holes make the Highlands Course experience unforgettable:

• The second and fifth holes: Par-5s with deep bunkers guarding the right side of the drive and near the green
• The third hole: A long par-4 with fairway bunkers on the right and a narrow driving area
• The ninth hole: Features a midline bunker fronting the green, offering a precise test to finish the front nine
• The eleventh hole: Considered the best on the course, potentially one of Atlanta’s finest

The Highlands Course has hosted several prestigious events, including the US Open, PGA Championship, US Amateur, and Women’s PGA Championship. Its rich history and challenging layout make it a top choice for golf enthusiasts visiting Atlanta.

East Lake Golf Club: Home of the Tour Championship

East Lake Golf Club, established in 1904, is Atlanta’s oldest golf course. It has hosted the Ryder Cup in 1963 and The Tour Championship since 2004. The course’s unique layout and challenges make it a top choice for both golf enthusiasts and professionals.

Bobby Jones’ Home Course

Bobby Jones, a legendary golfer, considered East Lake his home course. The clubhouse is filled with memorabilia from his career, enhancing its historical appeal. In 1993, a local foundation bought the course to honor Jones and other amateur golfers.

GOLF Top 100 Course

East Lake is a GOLF Top 100 course, stretching over 7,346 yards with a par of 72/70. Its rating and slope reflect its challenging nature. Donald Ross redesigned the course in 1913, making it a true test of skill and strategy.

Challenging Back Tees

The back tees at East Lake are known for their toughness. The 18th fairway became famous after Tiger Woods’ 2018 victory. Zach Johnson set the course record of 60 strokes in 2007, highlighting the potential for great play here.

East Lake Golf Club continues to draw golf lovers with its rich history, challenges, and unique features. It’s a key spot on the PGA Tour, where top players like Viktor Hovland, Rory McIlroy, and Tiger Woods have competed on its historic fairways.

Druid Hills Golf Club

Druid Hills Golf Club, located in Atlanta’s heart, provides a historic and exceptional golfing experience. Established in 1912, this exclusive club features a 6,836-yard course with a par of 72. Its challenging layout, with a rating of 73.7 and a slope of 142, appeals to golfers across various skill levels.

The course is a paradise for those who prefer a strategic game, thanks to its Bent Grass greens and well-maintained fairways. The club’s dedication to quality is reflected in its high ratings, with all reviewers recommending it. Members and their guests can access green fee details and booking information for a smooth golfing experience.

Druid Hills Golf Club also boasts a range of amenities beyond golf. The two-story clubhouse is perfect for social events, and the top-notch practice facilities help golfers refine their skills. Members enjoy:

• Banquet facilities for special events
• Swimming amenities for family fun
• Fitness and tennis facilities for year-round activity

Located at 740 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30307, Druid Hills Golf Club remains a key part of Atlanta’s golf scene. It hosts notable amateur tournaments like the Dogwood Invitational, solidifying its reputation as a top golf destination.

Peachtree Golf Club: A Bobby Jones and Robert Trent Jones Collaboration

Peachtree Golf Club is a pinnacle of golfing excellence in Atlanta. With only 200 members, it offers a unique experience akin to Augusta National. The course, measuring 6,700 yards at its longest, was designed by Bobby Jones and Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1947.

The course features forgiving fairways and massive, undulating greens. These greens offer both opportunities and challenges for golfers. Dense tree stands along the fairways enhance the course’s beauty and strategic complexity. A golfer once shot a 79, set a personal putting record of 26, and made 139 feet of holed putts.

But Peachtree Golf Club is more than just a course. Its clubhouse, an 1857 plantation home, survived General Sherman’s Civil War burning of Atlanta. This historical setting, combined with the course’s excellence, makes Peachtree a unique gem in Atlanta’s golf scene.

Golfing in Atlanta: Seasonal Considerations

Atlanta’s golf scene is vibrant all year, offering unique experiences across seasons. When planning your tee times, consider the city’s climate changes. Summer brings hot, humid weather, ideal for early or late rounds. Spring and fall, with their pleasant temperatures, are perfect for midday play.

Winter golfing in Atlanta is surprisingly enjoyable, with milder temperatures unlike those in northern states. Many courses stay open, providing chances for off-season play. However, rates often change with the seasons, peaking in spring and fall.

Rain can sometimes affect play in Atlanta. To ensure a smooth experience, always check the weather forecast before booking. Some courses offer indoor facilities or simulators for bad weather, letting you enjoy golf regardless of the conditions.

Atlanta’s golf courses maintain high standards all year. With proper planning and flexible booking, you can enjoy quality golfing in every season. Whether you’re local or visiting, Atlanta’s diverse golf options cater to all preferences and skill levels throughout the year.

Booking Tee Times: Tips and Tricks

Securing the perfect tee time in Atlanta requires some insider knowledge. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding the nuances of booking can make your golfing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Peak Season vs. Off-Season Rates

Atlanta’s golf scene thrives year-round, but rates fluctuate with the seasons. Peak season typically runs from spring to fall, with higher prices and busier courses. To snag better deals, consider booking tee times during the off-season winter months. You’ll enjoy lower rates and less crowded fairways.

Membership Options and Benefits

For avid golfers, club memberships offer incredible perks. Many Atlanta courses provide membership details that include priority tee times, discounted rates, and access to exclusive events. Some clubs even offer reciprocal privileges with other courses, expanding your golfing horizons.

Guest Policies at Private Clubs

If you’re eyeing a round at a private club, guest access policies vary. Some clubs allow non-members to play during specific times, while others require member sponsorship. It’s best to call ahead and inquire about guest policies and available tee times.

Remember, booking early is key, especially for popular courses. Many clubs offer online booking systems, making it easy to secure your preferred tee time. By planning ahead and considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable golfing experience in Atlanta.

Beyond the Greens: Atlanta’s Golf Culture

Atlanta’s golf scene is a vibrant tapestry of diverse courses and rich history. It offers everything from 9-hole layouts to championship 18-hole designs, catering to all skill levels and preferences. The city’s golf culture goes beyond the fairways, providing a variety of amenities and facilities for avid golfers and social enthusiasts alike.

Iconic clubs like Druid Hills and Ansley Golf Club blend historical elegance with challenging play, drawing in Atlanta’s social elite. For a unique experience, try the Bobby Jones Golf Course with its reversible 9-hole design. John A. White Golf Course offers an affordable option, perfect for beginners and seasoned players.

Atlanta’s golf culture celebrates diversity and history. The Alfred Tup Holmes Golf Course, named after a civil rights pioneer, features a challenging layout amidst rolling hills and forests. Many clubs provide additional benefits, including fitness centers, dining options, and social events, making them community hubs.

From the top-ranked Echelon Golf Club to the scenic Stone Mountain Golf Club, Atlanta’s golfing paradise awaits. Whether you’re teeing off at Bear’s Best Atlanta or enjoying the vineyard vibes at Chateau Elan Golf Club, Atlanta’s golf culture is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.