Did you know Michigan led in new golf course openings from 1995 to 2000? This boom has made Metro Detroit a golfer’s dream with over 650 public courses. Whether you’re a pro or play on weekends, there’s a course for everyone.
Metro Detroit’s golf scene is a mix of city and countryside. You can see the Detroit skyline or enjoy a peaceful “Up North” view. From top tournament courses to hidden spots, there’s something for every golfer.
Ready to play golf? We will look at the best golf courses in Metro Detroit. We’ll look at top spots, tee times, and green fees for your perfect golf trip.
Key Takeaways
- Metro Detroit boasts over 650 public golf courses
- The region offers courses for all skill levels and budgets
- Many courses provide unique views, including the Detroit skyline
- Several Metro Detroit courses have hosted prestigious tournaments
- Tee times and green fees vary widely across the region
Detroit’s Rich Golfing Heritage
Metro Detroit has a long history in golf, just like its car and culture scenes. The area’s old golf courses have made the sport special for fans.
Walter Hagen and Oakland Hills Country Club
Walter Hagen was an important figure in Detroit golf. He was the first pro at Oakland Hills Country Club. This club has hosted big events like the U.S. Open and PGA Championship, making it famous in golf.
Donald Ross’s Influence on Metro Detroit Golf
Donald Ross made a big impact on Detroit golf. His designs are on many local courses, like Rackham Park and Warren Valley. Golfers of all levels love playing on these challenging courses.
| Course | Greens Fees (Weekday) | Greens Fees (Weekend) | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oakland Hills Country Club | $200 | $250 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Rackham Park Golf Course | $30 | $40 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Warren Valley Golf Course | $25 | $35 | 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
In the last 20 years, Metro Detroit golf has changed a lot. More women, African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics, and young players are joining. This change is seen in golf shops like Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills.
Tiger Woods has inspired a new generation of golfers. This has made golf more popular among different groups. Women, in particular, are spending more on golf gear and clothes, following a national trend.
Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in Metro Detroit
Metro Detroit is home to many public golf courses. These courses offer challenging layouts and beautiful views. Michigan is known as a top golfing spot, ranking second in the U.S. for public golf, according to GolfDigest.
The area has courses for all skill levels. Boulder Pointe Golf Club and Banquet Center is the best, based on GolfNow.com ratings. Moose Ridge Golf Course is second, with tee lengths from 4,758 to 6,790 yards.
Coyote Preserve Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer, is third. Eagle Crest Golf Club in Ypsilanti and The Majestic at Lake Walden are also in the top five. These courses offer great golfing experiences.
| Golf Course | Greens Fees (Weekday/Weekend) | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Boulder Pointe Golf Club | $45/$65 | 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Moose Ridge Golf Course | $55/$75 | 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Coyote Preserve Golf Club | $49/$69 | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Eagle Crest Golf Club | $40/$60 | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| The Majestic at Lake Walden | $52/$72 | 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM |
Shepherd’s Hollow in Clarkston has 27 holes over 350 acres. The Orchards in Washington Township was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It has tee lengths from 5,158 to 7,036 yards. These courses show Metro Detroit’s dedication to great golf for all players.
Oakland Hills Country Club (South Course), Bloomfield Hills
Oakland Hills Country Club is a historic golf club in Metro Detroit. The South Course is ranked 25th globally. It has hosted six U.S. Opens, three PGA Championships, and the 2004 Ryder Cup.
The South Course starts with two amazing holes. The 10th hole is a 462-yard par four with a falling fairway. It tests your tee shot skills. The 11th hole is parallel, with a severe left-to-right slope.
The back nine is very challenging. The 16th hole is famous for needing a second shot over water. The final hole, a 498-yard par five (played as a par four by pros), ends your round with a big test of skill.
Robert Trent Jones made big changes before the 1951 U.S. Open. Ben Hogan won the tournament and said he “brought the course, this monster, to its knees.”
| Tee Time | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM | $225 | $275 |
| 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | $200 | $250 |
| 2:00 PM – Close | $175 | $225 |
Oakland Hills Country Club attracts golf lovers. They come to test their skills on a course that has faced the world’s best in many major tournaments.
TPC Michigan, Dearborn
TPC Michigan in Dearborn is a top PGA Tour venue. It offers golfers a chance to play like the pros. The course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a true test of skill for all players.
The course is 7,057 yards long from the championship tees. Its greens are small and fast, with a speed of 10.5. It’s known for its precision, making it a challenge for even the best golfers. As Michigan’s first Audubon golf course, it also cares for the environment.
About 80% of TPC Michigan’s members are from corporations. This shows its appeal for business events. It hosted the Ford Senior Players Championship until 2006. San Antonio is known for golf, but TPC Michigan is a top spot in Detroit.
There are many ways to play this Jack Nicklaus design. Members of Heritage Golf Group or TPC Network can play. Hotel guests at places like the Hyatt Regency Dearborn can get tee times. Non-members can play through their club pro, if spots are available.
| Tee Time Category | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Member Guest | $125 | $150 |
| Hotel Guest | $175 | $200 |
| Reciprocal Play | $200 | $225 |
After golf, enjoy the clubhouse’s food. Try the Steak Bites ($19), Festive Flatbread ($18), or the Blue Jalapeno Burger ($19). For a bigger meal, go for the Braised Short Rib ($35) or Fire Grilled Filet Mignon.
Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club: A Northern Michigan Experience
Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club is in Clarkston and offers a golf experience like no other. It’s ranked 42nd best public golf course by Golf Digest. This 27-hole championship design brings a scenic course to Metro Detroit’s backyard.
Course Design and Unique Features
Shepherd’s Hollow opened in 2000 on 420 acres of former Jesuit land. It stretches to 7,200 yards from the back tees, challenging even the best golfers. Its wide fairways and tricky greens give you a taste of Northern Michigan.
The club has a full-service driving range, practice center, and lots of water hazards and sand bunkers. These features make it an award-winning golf experience in Oakland County, rivaling the best golf courses.
Clubhouse Amenities and Dining Options
After your game, check out the pro shop with top brands like Titleist and Under Armour. The clubhouse offers lunch and dinner, and on summer weekends, a cooked-to-order breakfast. It’s a great place to relax.
Shepherd’s Hollow also offers professional tournament services and wedding planning. They even have Stay & Play options for a full golf getaway.
| Green Fees | Weekday | Weekend |
|---|---|---|
| 18 Holes with Cart | $55 | $75 |
| Twilight (after 3 PM) | $40 | $50 |
| Junior (under 18) | $30 | $35 |
Located near Lansing, Grand Rapids, Flint, and Detroit, Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club is easy to get to. Yet, it offers a secluded golf experience that feels like Northern Michigan right in Metro Detroit.
The Orchards Golf Club: Skyline Views and Championship Challenges
The Orchards Golf Club in Washington Township is a top golf spot. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and offers a fun challenge for all players. On clear days, you can see the Detroit skyline from the first tee, 40 miles away.
Since 1993, the course has been set on a 525-acre apple orchard. It has two 9-hole layouts, 88 sand bunkers, and big greens. The record of 62 by Doc Redman in 2019 shows its potential for great scores.
The Orchards hosts many tournaments, like the Michigan Open Championship. It’s also the site for the Rocket Mortgage Classic’s Monday qualifier. This brings top golfers to its fairways.
- Championship: 7,036 yards (74.9/144 rating)
- Tournament: 6,487 yards (71.8/137 rating)
- Invitational: 5,868 yards (69.2/128 rating)
- Competition: 5,158 yards (70.1/124 rating)
| Season | Weekday 18 | Weekend 18 | Weekday 9 | Weekend 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring/Fall | $59 | $69 | $35 | $40 |
| Summer | $75 | $85 | $45 | $50 |
The Orchards Golf Club has seasonal passes for all. You can get a Junior Seasonal Pass, Range Pass, or Handicap Service. If you don’t have golf equipment, club rentals are available.
Indianwood Golf and Country Club, Lake Orion
Indianwood Golf and Country Club in Lake Orion is a top spot for championship golf. The “Old” Course is ranked among America’s top 100 classic golf courses. It offers a challenging layout that has drawn major tournaments for years.
This historic course has hosted four big championships. These include the 1930 Western Open and three USGA events. The 1989 and 1994 Women’s US Opens, along with the 2012 US Senior Open, have also been held here. This makes Indianwood a major tournament venue.
As you walk up to the clubhouse, you’ll see centenarian pine trees. They frame the course, creating a timeless feel. The clubhouse itself has a unique style. It combines Viking Castle and Renaissance elements both inside and out.
| Membership Level | Green Fees | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Full Golf | Included | 7 days in advance |
| Executive | $85 weekdays, $110 weekends | 5 days in advance |
| Social | $100 weekdays, $125 weekends | 3 days in advance |
| Junior | $50 weekdays, $75 weekends | 2 days in advance |
Indianwood offers four membership levels for different golfing needs. Whether you play often or just sometimes, there’s a membership for you. This club is esteemed for its golfing excellence.
Moose Ridge Golf Course: An Up North Feel in South Lyon
Moose Ridge Golf Course is in South Lyon, bringing the Up North feel to Metro Detroit. It’s one of Southeast Michigan’s best public courses. The Oakland County Press and Detroit Free Press have both praised it.
Course Layout and Scenic Beauty
Ray Hearn designed Moose Ridge in 2000. It has bent grass fairways and greens. The course is famous for a tough 630-yard par-five hole.
Golfers love its natural beauty and varied terrain. It gets a 4.5 rating for its layout.
Moose Grille: Post-Round Dining
Relax at the Moose Grille after your game. It’s like a cabin, adding to the Up North atmosphere. It’s perfect for dining and unwinding.
| Day | Tee Times | Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | $48 – $72 |
| Weekends | 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM | $62 – $92 |
Moose Ridge is known for its friendly staff and quick play. It scores 4.3 and 4.0 for these. Some worry about the course conditions, but most golfers love it.
75.3% of golfers recommend it. They say it’s a great mix of challenge and beauty.
Northville Hills Golf Club: Arnold Palmer’s Metro Detroit Masterpiece
Northville Hills Golf Club is a shining example of Arnold Palmer’s design in Metro Detroit. It beautifully combines Michigan’s varied landscapes, featuring woodlands, wetlands, lakes, and hills. The course offers lengths from 5,166 to 7,003 yards, appealing to all skill levels.
Water features on 14 holes add a thrilling element to your game. The gold tees, at 7,003 yards with a slope of 132, are a challenge for skilled players. Meanwhile, the blue tees at 6,193 yards are perfect for mid-handicappers, and beginners will find the forward tees more accessible.
Northville Hills also values modern convenience with its app-based services. You can book tee times, order food, and follow live scores right on your phone. This makes your golfing experience smooth from start to finish.
| Tee Type | Yardage | Slope |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | 7,003 | 132 |
| Blue | 6,193 | 124 |
| White | 5,627 | N/A |
| Forward | 4,956 | N/A |
The club boasts a 55,000 sq. ft. grass driving range and golf carts with weather shields. It also has sprinkler heads and yardage plates for better play. Northville residents get special deals, with discounts for seniors and juniors.
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center: 63 Holes of Golfing Paradise
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center in Plymouth offers a wide range of golfing experiences. It has 63 holes spread over 500 acres. This place is great for all skill levels, with many courses and open all year.
The Golden Fox: Links-Style Challenge
The Golden Fox course brings a bit of Scotland to Michigan. It has rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and tough greens. Golfers looking for a challenge will find it rewarding and demanding.
Fox Classic: Traditional American Design
The Fox Classic course is for those who love traditional golf. It has tree-lined fairways and tricky hazards. It’s a mix of challenge and fun for all players.
Strategic Fox: Par-3 Family Fun
The Strategic Fox is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting to improve their short game. It’s a fun and easy course for everyone.
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center is known as the ‘Best Public Golf Course’ in ‘Best of Detroit 2023’. It has two driving ranges and three clubhouses. There’s also a Golf Performance Center for lessons and club fitting all year.
| Course | Weekday Rates | Weekend Rates |
|---|---|---|
| The Golden Fox | $55 | $75 |
| Fox Classic | $40 | $60 |
| Strategic Fox | $18 | $25 |
Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center offers a diverse golfing experience with multiple course options and year-round golf facilities. It’s perfect for all players, from beginners to pros. For those looking for variety, Fox Hills is a top spot in Metro Detroit, like Charleston’s golf scene.
Coyote Preserve Golf Club: Arnold Palmer’s Fenton Gem
In Fenton, Michigan, Coyote Preserve Golf Club is a gem designed by Arnold Palmer. It opened in 2001 with a 6,921-yard, par-71 layout. The course is surrounded by thousands of trees and wetlands, offering a peaceful golfing experience.
The course is easy to get to, located off US-23. It has five par 3 holes, known as the best in the area. The “Coyote Trap” at the end is a challenging sequence of par 5-3-5 holes.
The 16th hole is a high-risk, high-reward challenge. With 14 holes near water, precision and strategy are critical for success. This makes Coyote Preserve a test for all players.
| Day | Rate |
|---|---|
| Weekday | $35-60 |
| Weekend | $59-90 |
| Senior Discount | Available |
Coyote Preserve also has a pro shop, clubhouse, driving range, and event spaces. It’s perfect for improving your game or hosting events. For those looking for more golf, Destin, Florida, has 27 courses within 15 miles, rivaling Metro Detroit’s golf scene.
Pine Trace Golf Course: Arthur Hills’ Design for Everyone
Pine Trace Golf Course in Rochester Hills is a standout. It shows Arthur Hills’ design philosophy perfectly. The course mixes beautiful scenery with tough play, welcoming all skill levels. It’s set against a stunning landscape, making your game unforgettable.
There are four tee levels for everyone, from newbies to pros. This makes it perfect for groups or solo players. You can warm up at the driving range and shop for gear at the pro shop.
Visitors to Orlando’s public courses will see similarities. Like many in Orlando, Pine Trace balances challenge and beauty for all golfers.
| Day | Time | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday | Morning | $45 |
| Weekday | Afternoon | $40 |
| Weekend | Morning | $68 |
| Weekend | Afternoon | $55 |
Pine Trace Golf Course has great rates, making it a top choice. It’s loved by locals for its design, scenery, and welcoming vibe.
Rouge Park Golf Course: Historic Detroit Park System Golf
Rouge Park Golf Course is an important part of Detroit’s golf history. It opened in 1928 and offers a fun yet affordable game. The course is a par 72, with 6,325 yards from the back tees, suitable for all skill levels.
The course uses the natural beauty around it. It’s like a river course, with water on nine holes and the Rouge River running through. Hole #11 is famous for its challenge, needing precision and strategy.
Rouge Park is known for its mix of history and easy access. It has wide fairways and small greens that require accurate shots. The layout uses the Rouge River valley’s natural shape, offering beautiful views during your game.
| Tee Options | Yardage | Rating/Slope |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Tees | 6,325 yards | 70.1/121 |
| White Tees | 6,083 yards | 69.4/118 |
As part of the Detroit Park System, Rouge Park Golf Course focuses on affordable play. Weekday rates are $20 to $26, with cart rentals at $6. This makes it a great choice for those wanting a quality game without spending a lot.
Sylvan Glen Golf Course: Year-Round Recreation in Troy
Sylvan Glen Golf Course in Troy is a gem for golfers of all levels. It has four tee sets, making it great for both pros and newbies. The fairways, lined with trees, offer a classic golfing challenge.
What makes Sylvan Glen special is its activities all year. Even when Troy gets 36 inches of snow, the course turns into a winter wonderland. You can sled or ski through the snow-covered landscape.
| Day | Time | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | All day | $56 |
| Weekdays | After 6 PM | Discounted |
| Weekends | Before 3 PM | $65 |
| Weekends | After 3 PM | $47 |
After golf, grab a meal at Camp Ticonderoga. Sylvan Glen is a top spot in Troy for golf and fun all year.
Greystone Golf Club, Washington Township
Greystone Golf Club is a top choice in Macomb County for golf lovers. It has tees ranging from 5,033 to 6,913 yards. This makes it perfect for golfers of all levels.
The final three holes, known as the Quarry Holes, are a highlight. They surround a beautiful 35-acre lake. Many say these holes are the best finish in Michigan, adding excitement to your game.
The course has a mix of great par-3s and short par-4s. This makes every round interesting. The design also uses the natural beauty of the area, offering stunning views.
| Tee Time | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Before 11 AM | $55 | $65 |
| 11 AM – 3 PM | $45 | $55 |
| After 3 PM | $35 | $45 |
If you’re planning a golf trip, there are great places to stay nearby. The Hyatt Place in Utica and Cambria Hotel in Shelby Township are excellent choices. They offer comfortable stays close to this amazing golf course.
Rackham Golf Course, Huntington Woods
Rackham Golf Course is just six miles north of Detroit Golf Club. It’s a gem of municipal golf, designed by Donald Ross. Horace Rackham donated it in the 1920s, making it a historic part of Metro Detroit.
People love Rackham for its tough layout and low prices. The green fee is $31, making it great for all golfers. Early birds can start before 6 a.m., but the parking lot fills up by 8 a.m. on busy days.
Karen Peek has been leading Rackham for over 50 years. Her commitment shows why this course is so beloved.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Opened | 1924 |
| Designer | Donald Ross |
| Green Fee | $31 |
| Distance from Detroit | 18 miles |
| Recent Upgrades | New golf carts (2019) |
Rackham Golf Course hosted the Joe Louis Open with a $1,000 entry fee. Now, it’s part of the Muni Monday series, celebrating city-owned courses.
While private clubs like Dearborn Country Club and Birmingham Country Club are around, Rackham stands out as a public option. It’s close to other municipal courses like Rouge Park and Dearborn Hills, offering affordable golf in Metro Detroit.
Planning Your Metro Detroit Golf Trip
Metro Detroit is a golfer’s dream with its wide range of courses and great amenities. Look into the golf packages available. Many courses offer stay-and-play deals with nearby hotels, making your trip easy.
Downtown Detroit is a great place to start your golf adventure. Courses are just a short drive away, allowing you to play at different places. Renting a car is a good idea for easy travel between courses and hotels.
The area has both public and private courses. You can play at historic Rouge Park Golf Course or the challenging Greystone Golf Club. Michigan is known for its excellent public golf, so you’re in for a treat.
| Course | Yardage | Par | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rouge Park | 6,325 | 72 | Detroit |
| Chandler Park | 6,000+ | 71 | Detroit |
| The Cardinal at Saint John’s | 7,002 | 72 | Plymouth |
| Lakes of Taylor | 7,028 | 72 | Taylor |
| Northville Hills | 5,166 – 7,003 | 72 | Northville |
Don’t forget to book your tee times early, especially for popular spots like Shepherd’s Hollow or Moose Ridge. With good planning, your trip to Metro Detroit will be memorable and beautiful.
How Metro Detroit’s golf scene stacks up against other major metropolitan areas
Metro Detroit’s golf scene is a bright spot in the world of major cities. Michigan is the second-best state for public golf, according to Golf Digest. The area has a wide range of courses, from old classics to new designs, for all skill levels.
When comparing golf destinations, Metro Detroit holds its own against big cities like New York and Chicago. While NYC had 62.2 million visitors in 2023, Detroit’s golf scene adds to its charm. The region’s convention center is the best in the country, drawing business travelers who love to golf.
Detroit’s golf scene is known for its variety. Courses like Oakland Hills Country Club and TPC Michigan are on par with the best in other cities. Brandon Tucker, a golf expert, has seen over 500 courses and praises Detroit’s Northern courses.
Golf tourism in Metro Detroit is affordable and easy to get to. Unlike some cities with high green fees, Detroit offers great golf at good prices. This makes Metro Detroit a top choice for golfers looking for a great game.
