Did you know Kansas has a par-5 hole with a 100-foot drop from tee to green? This amazing hole at Colbert Hills in Manhattan is 600 yards long. It’s a big challenge for even the best golfers.
Kansas has many great golf courses, each with its own special features. You can enjoy the beautiful views at Prairie Dunes Country Club or the top-notch amenities at Flint Hills National Golf Club. There’s something for everyone.
If you love golf or are just visiting, Kansas has lots to offer. With about 75 public and private courses near Kansas City, you’re always close to a great game. Get ready for exciting golfing adventures.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas offers diverse golfing experiences for all skill levels
- Many courses feature scenic views and challenging layouts
- World-class amenities are available at several top-rated clubs
- Some courses have hosted prestigious tournaments
- Kansas golf courses offer year-round play opportunities
Discovering Kansas’ Golfing Gems
Kansas is home to many hidden golf treasures. You can find everything from top-notch championship courses to affordable spots for all skill levels. The state’s golf scene is diverse, with unique features like zoysia fairways and bent-grass greens.
Overland Park is a highlight of Kansas golf. It has famous courses like St. Andrews Golf Club and Sykes/Lady Overland Park Golf Club. For a special experience, try the Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate.
Kansas City also has a great golf scene. It has 7 private clubs and many public courses. Stone Canyon Golf Club, designed by Greg Norman, is one of Missouri’s best public courses. Falcon Valley Golf Course offers a unique nine-hole layout for a quick game.
| Course | Location | Par | Holes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sycamore Ridge Golf Course | Spring Hill | 72 | 18 |
| Auburn Hills Golf Course | Wichita | 72 | 18 |
| Mariah Hills Golf Course | Dodge City | 71 | 18 |
| Turkey Creek Golf Course | McPherson | 70 | 18 |
Kansas golf courses offer a wide range of experiences. From Salina Municipal Golf Course’s bluegrass fairways to Sugar Hills Golf Club’s challenges, each place is unique. Even with Oklahoma City’s affordable green fees, Kansas has its own budget-friendly gems and top courses.
Top 9 Golf Courses in Kansas
Kansas is home to some of the Midwest’s best golf courses. In 2023, 27 courses across the state received 230 reviews. These courses are known for their challenging layouts and beautiful scenery.
The top-rated courses, based on golfer reviews and rankings, are:
- Firekeeper Golf Course
- Buffalo Dunes Golf Course
- Ironhorse Golf Club
- Sand Creek Station Golf Club
- Colbert Hills Golf Course
- Prairie Highlands Golf Course
- Sycamore Ridge Golf Course
- Village Greens Golf Course
- Turkey Creek Golf Course
These courses are great for all skill levels. For example, Sycamore Ridge in Spring Hill has 7,000 yards of play. It features wide valleys, streams, and rock formations. Ironhorse Golf Club in Leawood offers a challenging par-72 layout.
Green fees vary, making these courses accessible to everyone. Here’s a look at some popular courses’ fees:
| Golf Course | Green Fee |
|---|---|
| Village Greens Golf Course | $15 |
| Turkey Creek Golf Course | $27 |
| Ironhorse Golf Club | $60 |
| Spring Creek Golf Club | $50 |
| Falcon Lakes Golf Course | $62 |
With over 75 courses within an hour of Kansas City, you have many choices. These courses offer more than 1,300 holes and 480,000 yards of play. This rivals the diversity found in Charleston, South Carolina’s golf scene.
Firekeeper Golf Course: A Native American-Inspired Masterpiece
Firekeeper Golf Course in Mayetta, Kansas, is a standout among the state’s golf spots. It’s a Native American-inspired design that mixes tough play with cultural importance.
Course Design and Features
Notah Begay III, the first Native American on the PGA Tour, designed Firekeeper. It respects the natural land with its layout. The course has rolling fairways, smart bunkers, and perfect greens for all skill levels.
Rates and Booking Information
Firekeeper Golf Course has great green fees and easy tee time booking. You can book online or by phone. Golf packages are also available for longer stays.
| Day | Green Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | $65 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekends | $85 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Twilight (After 3 PM) | $45 | 3:00 PM – Close |
Unique Cultural Experience
Firekeeper is more than just a golf course. It dives deep into Native American culture. The course shows off Prairie Band Potawatomi heritage in its design. This mix of golf and culture makes Firekeeper a top spot for both golf lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Buffalo Dunes Golf Course: A Hidden Treasure in Garden City
In Garden City, Kansas, Buffalo Dunes Golf Course is a gem. Frank Hummel designed it in 1976. It’s the second-best course in the state, known for its tough layout.
The course has seen big changes. Experts removed trees, rebuilt greens and bunkers, and regrassed areas. These updates saved money and improved the game.
Buffalo Dunes is great for golf lovers because it’s affordable. Green fees are $25 to $30 for everyone. You can book your tee time online, making planning easy.
| Golfer Type | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| All Golfers | $25 | $30 |
Frank Hummel’s design is evident in every hole. The course tests players of all levels. You’ll enjoy the natural beauty of Kansas as you play.
Buffalo Dunes Golf Course is perfect for anyone who loves golf. It offers great value, challenging play, and beautiful views. It’s a top spot for golfers in Kansas.
Prairie Dunes Country Club (Hutchinson)
Prairie Dunes Country Club is a top spot among Hutchinson golf courses. It’s a private club with a championship course that’s among the best in Kansas. The club opened in 1937 and covers 480 acres of land, similar to Scottish courses.
The course has 18 holes and is 6,759 yards long, with a par of 70. It’s a tough course, with a rating of 75.5 and a slope of 148. Perry Maxwell designed it, and it’s still a favorite today.
Prairie Dunes has hosted big tournaments like the U.S. Women’s Open and NCAA Men’s Golf Championships. It’s known nationwide and has been ranked #23 in America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses for 2023-2024 by Golf Digest.
| Tee | Par | Yardage | Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | 70 | 6,853 | 75.5 | 148 |
| Blue | 70 | 6,535 | 74.1 | 144 |
| White | 70 | 6,119 | 72.3 | 141 |
| Silver | 70 | 5,492 | 69.2 | 135 |
| Bronze (Women) | 70 | 5,035 | 70.5 | 126 |
The 14th hole is a 405-yard par 4 that shows off the course’s beauty and challenge. Golfers love the 2nd hole, a par 3. The 8th hole, a 468-yard par 4, is tough for even the best players. The 3rd hole is a chance for a birdie, but the 11th hole is very hard.
Ironhorse Golf Club: Challenging Greens in Leawood
Ironhorse Golf Club was built in 1995 by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and CE Golf Design. It’s in Leawood, Kansas. The course is a par-72, stretching 6,889 yards, and has a rating of 74.0 and a slope of 143. It’s a tough test for golfers of all levels.
Course Layout and Difficulty
The course at Ironhorse is tough but rewarding. It has Zoysia grass fairways and tricky greens. The 11th hole is a great example of the strategic play needed.
Amenities and Facilities
Ironhorse has great practice areas and a top-notch clubhouse. Golfers love the course conditions and the friendly staff. The club offers golf services all year, making it a great place to visit.
Tee Time Booking and Fees
Green fees are $45 to $80, showing the high quality of the golf. You can book online for convenience. Keep in mind, peak rates apply during busy times.
| Tee | Par | Yardage | Handicap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 4 | 374 | 9 |
| Blue | 4 | 354 | 9 |
| White | 4 | 326 | 9 |
Ironhorse Golf Club has a 4.5-star rating from 162 reviews. It’s highly recommended, making it a top choice for golfers in Kansas.
Sand Creek Station Golf Club: Newton’s Links-Style Wonder
Sand Creek Station Golf Club is Newton’s top links-style golf spot. It opened in 2006, designed by Jeff Brauer. It mixes tough play with stunning views, thanks to native grasses.
On the course, you’ll find four holes by a beautiful watercourse. Eleven ponds and the Amtrak railway line make it even more exciting. These features require you to be precise with your shots.
The 10th hole, “The Beast,” is a 640-yard par-5 that crosses Sand Creek. It’s a big test for golfers. The course’s native grasses have made it famous across Kansas.
After golf, try the German Buffet on Fridays and Saturdays. For a local taste, visit The Breadbasket. It’s a Mennonite-influenced restaurant with great food for nearly 40 years.
| Day | Greens Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | $45 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekends | $55 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Twilight (After 3 PM) | $35 | 3:00 PM – Close |
Sand Creek Station Golf Club is a top spot for golf in Newton. Its links-style design and great features make it a must-visit for golf lovers in Kansas.
Colbert Hills Golf Course: Manhattan’s Premier Golfing Destination
Colbert Hills Golf Course is a top choice for golf in Manhattan, Kansas. It was designed by Jeff Brauer and Jim Colbert in 2000. This 18-hole course covers over 7,000 yards of beautiful terrain.
Course Overview and Design
The course has unique features that challenge and thrill golfers. It has rolling hills and hazards placed just right. The signature holes, designed by Jim Colbert, show off the Flint Hills’ natural beauty.
Stay and Play Packages
Colbert Hills has great package deals for golf vacations. These packages include golf and comfortable places to stay. They’re perfect for weekend trips or longer golf adventures.
| Package | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Weekend Warrior | 2 rounds of golf, 1 night stay | $199 |
| Golf Getaway | 3 rounds of golf, 2 nights stay | $299 |
| Ultimate Experience | 4 rounds of golf, 3 nights stay, dinner | $449 |
Scenic Views and Unique Features
The views at Colbert Hills are stunning. As you play, you’ll see the Kansas landscape in all its glory. The course has water hazards and bunkers that make the game more exciting. It’s also an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, showing its care for the environment.
Prairie Highlands Golf Course: Olathe’s Golfing Pride
Prairie Highlands Golf Course is a gem in Olathe. It’s a Scottish-style public course built in 2000. Golfers find it challenging yet rewarding.
The course has Zoysia Grass fairways and Bent Grass greens. This makes it great to play all year.
The layout is versatile. From the tips, it’s 7100 yards. The blues are 6300 yards. The whites are 5700 yards. It’s a par 72 with a course rating of 74.6.
Many praise the course conditions and value. The layout is strategic, with well-placed bunkers and fast greens. Some find the rough and bunkers challenging, but they add to the course’s charm.
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Course Conditions | 3.8 |
| Value | 4.0 |
| Layout | 4.4 |
| Friendliness | 4.1 |
| Pace | 3.7 |
| Amenities | 3.9 |
Prairie Highlands supports the Evans Scholarship Foundation. Over 60 caddies have received scholarships. This shows the course’s dedication to young talent.
This commitment makes Prairie Highlands an important part of Olathe’s golfing community. Just like San Antonio is a top spot for golf.
Sycamore Ridge Golf Course: Spring Hill’s Challenging Fairways
Sycamore Ridge Golf Course in Spring Hill offers a unique and challenging experience. This 7,000-yard, par-72 course has wide valleys, streams, and huge rock formations. Every round is memorable.
Course Highlights and Standout Holes
Designed by Baxter Spann in 2000, with later help from Jim Colbert and CE Golf Design, Sycamore Ridge features Bent Grass fairways and greens. It focuses on shot placement and short game skills, especially on the back nine. Players love the different challenges of the front and back nines.
Greens Fees and Tee Times
Sycamore Ridge offers golf all year, with the peak season from April to October. You can book your tee time online. Here’s the pricing:
| Day | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday | Morning | $45 |
| Weekday | Afternoon | $35 |
| Weekend | Morning | $65 |
| Weekend | Afternoon | $55 |
Player Reviews and Ratings
Sycamore Ridge Golf Course has a 4.3 out of 5 rating from players. They love the course’s features, like great conditions and scenic views. The staff is friendly, and the play is fast.
Some suggest adding more sand to bunkers and improving amenities. But, with a 100% recommendation rate, Sycamore Ridge is known for its quality and challenge.
Village Greens Golf Course: Affordable Excellence
Village Greens Golf Course is a top choice for budget-friendly golf in Kansas. Green fees start at just $15, making it perfect for those who want to play without spending a lot. The course is well-maintained, ensuring a great experience for all players.
It welcomes golfers of all skill levels. The course offers a fair challenge, fitting both beginners and seasoned players. Despite its low prices, the course is known for its high quality, thanks to regular maintenance.
| Day | Green Fees | Cart Rental |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday | $15 | $10 |
| Weekend | $20 | $12 |
| Twilight | $12 | $8 |
The staff at Village Greens adds to the joy of playing golf. They are friendly and always ready to help. This makes every visit a pleasant one, whether you’re a regular or new to the course.
Village Greens is a great value for golfers. It offers affordable rates, excellent maintenance, and great playing conditions. It’s a favorite among golfers in Kansas, and golf enthusiasts often say it’s a must-visit.
Turkey Creek Golf Course: A Hidden Gem for All Skill Levels
Turkey Creek Golf Course is a great choice for those looking for affordable golf. It’s known for its quality and recent upgrades. The course is a hidden gem that offers a great experience.
Course Conditions and Recent Improvements
People love the maintenance quality at Turkey Creek. The course has seen big improvements. Now, the fairways are well-groomed and the greens are fast and true.
Pricing and Value for Money
Turkey Creek is affordable without losing quality. Green fees are just $27. This makes it a great choice for those watching their budget.
| Day | Green Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | $27 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekends | $32 | 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
Player Testimonials
Many golfers say Turkey Creek is a great value. They love the course layout, the staff, and how fast the game moves. The affordable prices make it even better.
One player said, “Turkey Creek offers amazing conditions at great prices. The recent upgrades have made it even better.” Many agree, making Turkey Creek a top choice for golfers.
Spring Creek Golf Club: Natural Beauty Meets Golfing Challenge
Spring Creek Golf Club is a scenic gem that blends natural beauty with a thrilling golfing challenge. The course conditions are top-notch, with fairways and greens that test your skills.
The layout is both challenging and fun. Native grasses line the fairways, adding to the course’s charm while penalizing bad shots. This mix of beauty and strategy makes your golfing experience unforgettable.
The club recently opened a new clubhouse. After your game, you can unwind and enjoy food and drinks. It’s a great place to share stories with friends or other golfers. This new addition makes Spring Creek a top golfing spot.
| Day | Green Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | $45 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekends | $55 | 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Twilight (After 3 PM) | $35 | 3:00 PM – Close |
Spring Creek Golf Club offers great rates, with green fees around $50. The quality of the course and facilities makes it a fantastic value. Book your tee time now and see why it’s a hit among Kansas golfers.
Trails West Golf Course: Top-Notch Facilities and Service
Trails West Golf Course covers 190 acres of open meadows and tree-lined fairways. It’s an 18-hole regulation course designed for all skill levels. It offers a mix of challenge and fun.
Course Layout and Difficulty
The course is 6,155 yards long with a par of 71. It’s rated 70.0 and has a slope of 120, making it moderately challenging. The fairways are covered in Zoysia grass, and the greens are bent grass. This ensures great playing conditions all year.
Staff and Customer Service
Trails West Golf Course is known for its excellent service. The staff is friendly and professional. With a 4.8 out of 5 rating from 56 reviews, it’s clear players love it here.
Pricing and Accessibility
Green fees at Trails West are very affordable. You can book tee times online up to 7 days in advance. The course has a pro shop, driving range, and the Fairway Grille.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Length | 6,155 yards |
| Par | 71 |
| Rating | 70.0 |
| Slope | 120 |
| Recommendation Rate | 98.3% |
| Contact | +1 (913) 651-7176 |
Trails West Golf Course is a top pick for golfers in Kansas. It has well-kept facilities, a friendly staff, and great playing conditions.
Tallgrass Country Club (Wichita)
Tallgrass Country Club is a top spot for golf lovers in Wichita. It’s a private club with a challenging 18-hole course by Arthur Hills from 1981. The course is a par-71 layout, 6,758 yards long, with a 73.5 course rating and a 141 slope.
Golfing in Wichita is special at Tallgrass. The course has bent grass fairways and greens. Some golfers love the layout and the friendly vibe.
As a private club, Tallgrass has lots to offer. You can rent clubs, get fitted, and book private events. It’s the 11th best golf spot in the area, drawing locals and visitors.
| Feature | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Course Layout | 3.2 |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.0 |
| Pace of Play | 3.6 |
| Value for Money | 2.2 |
| Course Conditions | 1.8 |
| Amenities | 2.0 |
Despite its potential, Tallgrass Country Club needs work on course conditions and amenities. Still, it’s a key part of Wichita’s golf scene. It offers a private golfing experience for those looking for exclusive play.
Auburn Hills Golf Course (Wichita)
Auburn Hills Golf Course is a top choice for public golf in Wichita. Designed by Perry Dye, ASGCA, it opened in 2001. It offers a modern and challenging golf experience.
The course is 7,169 yards long from the black tees, with a par of 72. It has different tee options for all skill levels. The black tees are the toughest, with a 76.4/141 course rating and slope.
The blue tees are 6,695 yards long, with a 74.4/138 rating. The white tees are 6,068 yards, with a 71.3/132 rating. For an easier game, try the gold tees at 5,412 yards or the red tees at 4,923 yards.
The course has well-kept bluegrass fairways and smooth bentgrass greens. Each hole is a fair test, with a handicap ranking from 1 to 18. Playing here will be both fun and memorable.
| Tee Color | Yardage | Course Rating/Slope |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 7,169 | 76.4/141 |
| Blue | 6,695 | 74.4/138 |
| White | 6,068 | 71.3/132 |
| Gold (Men) | 5,412 | 70.0/123 |
| Red | 4,923 | 70.0/123 |
The pro shop at Auburn Hills has top brands like Titleist, Ping, and Foot Joy. PGA Professionals offer custom club fitting and lessons. Green fees are around $52 for 18 holes, with lower rates on weekdays and twilight hours.
Auburn Hills is known for hosting big events, like web.com qualifiers and U.S. Golf Association tournaments. This challenging course is an important part of Wichita’s golf scene. About 200,000 rounds are played annually on public courses here.
Planning Your Kansas Golf Getaway: Tips and Recommendations
Kansas has a wide range of golf courses, from affordable to premium. When planning your trip, think about these tips to enjoy your Sunflower State adventure.
Choosing the right courses is key. Kansas City alone has 11 featured golf courses. You can find public and private options like Paradise Pointe Golf Complex with 40 holes and Shoal Creek Golf Course’s 18-hole layout.
The best times to golf in Kansas are spring and fall. Summer is too hot, and winter might not have many options. Try to go in April-May or September-October for the best weather.
Choosing the right course is important for a great experience. Look at the difficulty level, amenities, and cost. Overland Park, with over 2 million visitors a year, has three public and four private clubs. Deer Creek Golf Club, a 2011 Kansas City Visitor’s Choice Award winner, is a must-visit.
| Golf Course | Type | Holes | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Pointe Golf Complex | Public | 40 | Largest hole count |
| Blue Hills Country Club | Private | 18 | Designed by A. W. Tillinghast |
| Nicklaus Golf Club at Lions Gate | Private | 18 | Hosts Midwest Classic Golf Tournament |
For places to stay, Overland Park has 36 hotels near highways. This makes it easy to get to courses. Look for stay-and-play packages for a full golfing vacation. With over 250 restaurants and 80 public parks, there’s lots to do outside of golf too.
How Kansas stacks up against Missouri, Nebraska, and other nearby golf destinations
Kansas has a golfiness rating of 72 out of 100. This shows the state’s strong golfing performance. It has a good mix of avidness, courses, legacy, and vibe, making it a great place for golfers.
In the Midwest, Kansas is known for its variety of golf courses. There are about 75 courses within an hour of Kansas City. This makes Kansas a top choice for golf tourism, drawing visitors from all over.
Kansas is also known for being affordable and well-maintained. While Nebraska and Missouri have their own golfing highlights, Kansas stands out. It offers unique experiences like the Firekeeper Golf Course and Buffalo Dunes.
The National Golf Foundation says Kansas has good participation rates and rounds played. The state has many top-rated courses, making it a strong player in Midwest golf. Kansas’s mix of quality, affordability, and unique experiences makes it a top choice for golfers.
