Best Public Golf Courses in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, is home to an impressive 53 golf courses within a 15-mile radius. This concentration of golfing options makes it a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. Moreover, 25 of these courses are public, catering to a broad spectrum of golfers, from novices to experts.

The city offers a variety of courses with challenging layouts and scenic beauty. Weekend rates with a cart are reasonably priced, ranging from $50 to $120. This makes it an accessible destination for those who love golf. Whether you’re aiming to play at a historic Donald Ross design or a top 100 U.S. public course, Columbus has something for everyone.

Let’s look at the standout holes and unique challenges awaiting golfers in Columbus. Courses like the Golf Club of Dublin feature water hazards, while Cumberland Trail is known for its fast greens. Each course presents its own set of challenges and thrills. Ready to plan your next golf outing? We’ll look at green fees, booking options, and what makes each course unique.

Key Takeaways

• Columbus offers 25 public golf courses within a 15-mile radius
• Weekend rates with cart range from $50 to $120
• Raymond Memorial Golf Course is closest to downtown, just 10 minutes away
• The Virtues Golf Club ranks among the top 100 public courses in the U.S.
• Courses like Cumberland Trail cater to various skill levels with multiple tee options
• Some courses, like Turnberry, offer unique features such as links-style layouts
• Many courses provide online booking for convenient tee times

Exploring Columbus’ Golfing Landscape

Columbus, Ohio’s capital, is a golfer’s dream with its rich history and diverse courses. It boasts over 30 courses within a 15-mile radius, offering 25 public and 28 private options. This ensures there’s a perfect match for every skill level and preference.

The Rich Golfing Heritage of Ohio’s Capital

Columbus is home to an impressive array of golf courses, each with its unique character. From the Long Dr golf course, spanning 7,243 yards, to the Players Club at Foxfire covering 7,077 yards, you’re spoiled for choice. These courses offer different challenges and amenities, catering to both novice and seasoned players.

Variety of Courses for All Skill Levels

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Columbus has a course for you. The Blacklick Championship Course features 27 holes over 6,832 yards, while Cumberland Trail provides 5 sets of tees ranging from 4,925 to 7,205 yards. This diversity in course layouts and lengths ensures an enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities.

Proximity to Downtown and Accessibility

Many of Columbus’ golf courses are conveniently located near downtown, making them easily accessible for both locals and visitors. This proximity allows you to enjoy a round of golf without venturing far from the city center. Some standout courses include Safari Golf Club, known for its unique African wildlife replicas, and the challenging Champions Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.

With such a wide range of public golf courses, Columbus offers competitive pricing and rates. Many courses provide membership details and benefits, including access to premium amenities like clubhouses and practice facilities. Whether you’re planning a quick nine-hole round or a full day on the links, you’ll find the perfect golfing experience in Ohio’s capital.

Top-Rated Public Golf Courses in the Columbus Area

Columbus is home to a diverse range of public golf courses, each with distinct features and designs. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, there’s a course tailored to your skill level and preferences. Let’s look at the top-rated public golf courses in the Columbus area for 2024, as voted by local golfers.

Airport Golf Course takes the lead, boasting an 18-hole, par-72 layout crafted by Jack Kidwell in 1966. It welcomes players with its inclusive guest policies. Right behind is Champions Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, featuring a challenging 18-hole, par-70 layout.

For those in a hurry, Gahanna Municipal Golf Club and Wilson Road Golf Course offer fantastic 9-hole experiences. Raymond Memorial Golf Course, another gem by Robert Trent Jones Sr., completes the top five with its 18-hole, par-72 layout, which has tested golfers since 1954.

Visitors to the area might also consider other premier golfing spots for comparison. Each course in Columbus presents distinct guest access policies and unique features, catering to a variety of preferences.

The Ohio State University Golf Club – Scarlet Course

At The Ohio State University Golf Club – Scarlet Course, golfing excellence awaits. This esteemed public course in Columbus boasts a challenging layout and breathtaking scenic views. It’s a cornerstone of the university’s acclaimed golf program, designed to delight golf enthusiasts.

The Scarlet Course is a standout among Columbus’s 53 golf courses within a 15-mile radius. Its design features narrow pathways between trees, small greens, and shallow bunkers. This layout demands precision and skill, offering a true test of golfing prowess.

The course’s compact design and core layout ensure a seamless golfing experience. Facilities cater to both experienced and novice players, ensuring a memorable visit. It’s crucial to book tee times early, as this course quickly becomes popular.

While in Columbus, take part in the diverse golfing scene. The area boasts 25 public and 28 private courses, catering to all skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re up for a quick 9-hole game or a full 18-hole challenge, Columbus has something for everyone.

Turnberry Golf Course: Links-style near Blacklick Creek

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Columbus, Turnberry Golf Course presents a links-style layout that stands out. Designed by Arthur Hills in 1991, it features Bent Grass fairways and greens. These provide excellent playing conditions throughout the year.

Players appreciate the course’s open layout, making it welcoming for beginners yet challenging for experts. The small, elevated greens add to the difficulty. Blacklick Creek’s proximity enhances the scenery, making each round visually stunning.

Regarding green fee details and tee times, Turnberry offers competitive rates. On weekends, a greens fee with a cart costs $54, offering great value. Booking tee times in advance is advised to secure your spot on this sought-after course.

Turnberry Golf Course boasts an impressive average rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 89 reviews. Golfers highly commend the course’s conditions, layout, staff friendliness, and pace of play. With 91% of reviewers recommending it, Turnberry is a top choice for golfing in Columbus.

After or before your game, utilize the large putting green and driving range to enhance your skills. These facilities, along with the course’s superior conditions, make Turnberry a leading choice among public golf courses in Columbus.

Apple Valley Golf Club: Scenic Views and Challenging Greens

Located an hour from downtown Columbus, Apple Valley Golf Club presents a harmonious mix of natural splendor and rigorous play. Designed by Bill Newcomb and John Robinson in 1972, it has become a celebrated spot for golf aficionados.

A Golfer’s Paradise

The course features fast, meticulously maintained greens that challenge even the most adept putters. Its demanding layout and notable holes have garnered a stellar 5-star rating on GolfAdvisor.com and Google Reviews. This acclaim has solidified its position as the #1 preferred public golf course in Central Ohio, as voted by the Columbus Clubhouse golf community.

Signature hole: The picturesque par-3 5th

The par-3 5th hole stands out as a masterpiece. It captures the essence of Central Ohio’s natural beauty, offering a blend of challenge and visual delight for golfers.

Stay & play packages for weekend getaways

For those desiring an extended golfing retreat, Apple Valley’s Stay & Play packages at The Pines Cabins are a sought-after option. These weekend escapes come with varying rates, from $204 for the Short Weekend to $273 for the Big Weekend.

Apple Valley Golf Club stands out with its competitive pricing and rates. They offer a Sunday afternoon online discount: $49 for eighteen holes with a cart, or $29 for nine holes. These deals, coupled with the course’s superior quality, make it a prime choice for golfers seeking both value and excellence.

Raymond Memorial Golf Course: Closest to downtown

Raymond Memorial Golf Course is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Columbus, offering a convenient golfing experience. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. in 1954, it covers 6,864 yards with a par of 72. Its close location to the city center makes it perfect for locals and visitors wanting quick access to quality golf.

The course features Bluegrass fairways and Bent grass greens, ensuring excellent playing conditions all year. With a rating of 72.8 and a slope of 121, it presents a moderate challenge for various skill levels. The layout includes unique twin par-3 holes, allowing faster players to move ahead of slower groups.

Golfers love the well-maintained greens and fairways, which have helped build the course’s good reputation. The amenities include a small irons-only driving range and sand traps at each green’s front, adding to the golfing experience.

Raymond Memorial Golf Course offers competitive rates, making it a great choice for budget-conscious golfers. Weekend rates with a cart are around $50, providing excellent value. The course’s affordability, prime location, and quality amenities make it a favorite among Columbus golfers.

Champions Golf Club: A Robert Trent Jones Masterpiece

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, near Easton Town Center, Champions Golf Club is a gem. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., it’s the most challenging of Columbus’ six city courses. The course features numerous trees, undulating greens, and hilly terrain, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s design at Champions Golf Club is a testament to his expertise. The layout requires precision and strategy, making it a top choice for skilled golfers. Its proximity to Easton Town Center, Columbus’ modern neighborhood, enhances its appeal for both locals and visitors.

The club offers top-notch practice facilities, including a driving range, short game area, and putting green. A modern clubhouse adds to the experience, providing comfort and convenience. Guest policies are inclusive, allowing visitors to enjoy the challenging layout of this public course.

Champions Golf Club presents a true test of golf in a picturesque setting. Its challenging layout, near downtown Columbus and Easton Town Center, makes it a must-play for golf enthusiasts.

Cumberland Trail Golf Club: Fast Greens and Varied Terrain

Cumberland Trail Golf Club, situated just 25 minutes east of downtown Columbus in Pataskala, presents a challenging and diverse golfing experience. This 7,149-yard course is renowned for its fast and smooth greens, making it a top choice for golf lovers.

Five Tee Box Options

Cumberland Trail accommodates players at all skill levels with its five tee box options. From beginners to experts, there’s a suitable starting point for everyone, offering distances from 4,800 to 7,200 yards. This flexibility ensures a fulfilling round for all golfers, regardless of their experience.

The Island Green Challenge

The par-3 6th hole is a true test of skill and nerve, featuring an island green. It requires precision and confidence, making it a memorable part of the course. This hole is a highlight that will stay with you, whether you succeed or not.

Cumberland Trail’s exceptional facilities and scenic views make it a preferred destination for golfers in the Columbus region. Its USGA rating of 74 and slope rating of 129 highlight its challenging yet accessible nature for a broad range of players.

To book your spot on this exceptional course, use Cumberland Trail’s online booking system. With its challenging play, top-notch facilities, and fair fees, Cumberland Trail Golf Club provides a premium golfing experience unmatched in the Columbus area.

Darby Creek Golf Club: Links and Woods in One Round

Darby Creek Golf Club, just 40 minutes from downtown Columbus, offers a unique golfing experience. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish and Brian Silva, it features two distinct nine-hole layouts. This allows golfers to experience both links-style and woodland golf in one round.

The front nine, named “Links,” presents Scottish-inspired holes with open fairways and challenging bunkers. The back nine, known as “Woods,” offers a stark contrast with its tree-lined fairways and narrower fairways. This mix of challenges keeps golfers engaged throughout the game.

The par-3 5th hole is a standout, showcasing the course’s links-style features. Water hazards appear on several holes, adding to the course’s difficulty and beauty. The bent grass fairways and greens are meticulously maintained, ensuring excellent playing conditions all year.

Darby Creek’s pricing is competitive, making it a great choice for golfers looking for quality without a high cost. The course’s generous hole designs cater to all skill levels, offering a challenge for experienced golfers. With a rating index of 4.3 from 107 reviews and a 98.1% recommendation rate, Darby Creek Golf Club is highly regarded among public courses in Columbus.

Delaware Golf Club: A Century-Old Donald Ross Design

Located just 30 minutes north of downtown Columbus, Delaware Golf Club is a cornerstone of golfing tradition. Established in 1922, this Donald Ross design has challenged golfers for over a century. Its layout remains a testament to the enduring appeal of classic golf courses.

Classic Layout Featuring Ravines and Valleys

The course spans 6,925 yards, with a par of 71, offering a blend of tree-lined fairways, strategic ravines, and undulating valleys. The bent grass fairways and greens ensure a premium playing experience. Rated at 72.9 and a slope of 132, it’s a true challenge for skilled golfers.

Comprehensive Practice Facilities

Improve your game at the club’s extensive practice areas. The driving range, putting green, and chipping area with sand bunkers provide ample space to practice. These facilities are designed to help you refine your skills before stepping onto the course.

Delaware Golf Club is highly regarded, boasting a 4.3 average rating and 90.6% positive reviews. It welcomes guests warmly, and the staff’s friendliness is consistently praised. For membership details and benefits, contact the club to learn more about this historic golfing venue.

Airport Golf Course

Near Columbus airport, the Airport Golf Course (AGC) provides a convenient golfing experience for travelers and locals alike. This public course is distinguished by its unique features and design, appealing to golfers of all abilities. The course regularly updates its holes, offering a new challenge with each visit.

The course’s scenery combines natural beauty with the occasional aircraft sighting, adding excitement to the game. Its design prioritizes accessibility, making it perfect for a quick game between flights or a leisurely round for Columbus residents.

AGC’s guest policies are inclusive, welcoming both walk-ins and reservations. Its close proximity to the airport makes it a favored spot for business travelers aiming to fit in some golf during their Columbus stay.

While not as highly acclaimed as some of Columbus’ top-ranked courses, AGC still delivers a solid golfing experience. Its adaptable design suits various skill levels, making it a prime choice for beginners and experienced players seeking a quick, enjoyable game.

Denison Golf Club: Elevated Greens and Stunning Views

Located in Granville, just 35 minutes from downtown Columbus, Denison Golf Club offers a historic and beautiful golfing experience. This 1924 Donald Ross design features elevated greens and undulating fairways, challenging golfers of all levels.

The course leverages the natural terrain, presenting unique challenges at each hole. With bluegrass fairways and bent grass greens, precision and strategy are essential. The elevated greens, a hallmark of Ross designs, require skill in approach shots and putting.

The 18th hole is the course’s highlight, offering a stunning view in Ohio. From its hilltop position, you’ll see the property and parts of Granville, making it a memorable end to your game.

The club boasts excellent facilities, including a well-appointed clubhouse and practice areas. Tee times can be booked online or by phone for a hassle-free start to your game. The course’s fees provide great value, considering the quality of play and the scenic views.

Golf Club of Dublin: Irish-Inspired Links Experience

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Columbus, the Golf Club of Dublin presents an Irish links-style golfing experience. This public course brings Ireland’s charm to Ohio, challenging players with its unique features and breathtaking landscape.

Unique Features: Pot Bunkers and Fescue Rough

The course features wide fairways and large greens, but beware. Pot bunkers and tall fescue rough significantly complicate your game. These elements, typical of Irish courses, push your skills and strategy to the limit on each hole.

Water Hazards on 17 of 18 Holes

Water is a factor on almost every hole, making for standout challenges that require precision and thoughtful club selection. Yet, the course remains accessible for all skill levels, offering various tee options to match your abilities.

Post-game, unwind at The 19th Hole restaurant with refreshments and stunning course views. The clubhouse also houses public and private practice areas for refining your skills.

Book your tee time early to secure your spot on this Irish-inspired gem. With its distinctive challenges and fair pricing, the Golf Club of Dublin promises a memorable golfing experience you won’t forget.

Lancaster Golf Club: A Historic Donald Ross Creation

Lancaster Golf Club, a historic gem, welcomed the public in 2022, just 40 minutes from Columbus. Designed by Donald Ross in 1909, it’s one of Ohio’s oldest golf courses. The course features Ross’s signature design, with elevation changes and mature trees.

The layout demands strategy and skill, with blind shots testing your abilities. The timeless design has captivated golfers for over a century. Now, guest access is available, allowing more to experience this classic layout.

The club offers amenities to enhance your experience. The clubhouse is ideal for relaxation, and the pro shop has all the essentials. For membership details, the club has various options for different preferences and playing frequencies.

Playing at Lancaster Golf Club offers more than just golf. You step into golfing history, experiencing a Donald Ross design that has endured. It’s a unique and challenging experience for all golfers, seasoned or new.

The Virtues Golf Club: A Top 100 U.S. Public Course Experience

The Virtues Golf Club, situated 50 minutes east of Columbus, offers a golfing experience that rivals the best in the nation. It was ranked 84th on Golf Digest’s 2021 list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses. This gem is also the top public course in Ohio, as rated by Golf Magazine.

The course design meanders through scenic hillsides and valleys, offering diverse and challenging holes. With five tee box options, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the stunning views and unique features. The signature 4th hole, a 563-yard par 5, boasts a dramatic 150-foot elevation drop, providing an unforgettable playing experience.

Formerly known as Longaberger Golf Course, The Virtues rebranded in 2016 while maintaining its reputation for excellence. The course spans 7,243 yards from the tips, featuring 18 holes with a par of 72. Its guest policies are designed to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The clubhouse, an impressive 60,000-square-foot structure, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It houses a restaurant and event spaces, making it perfect for post-round relaxation or special occasions.

Golfing and Brewery Tours: The Perfect Columbus Combo

Columbus seamlessly combines golfing and brewery tours, offering a unique experience. After a round of golf, you can experience the city’s vibrant craft beer culture. With over 30 microbreweries, it’s a haven for beer enthusiasts.

For those aiming to enhance their golf skills, X-Golf simulators are an ideal choice. They provide a detailed look at their pricing and facilities:

X-Golf simulators support up to 6 players, ideal for group activities. An individual can play 18 holes in about an hour, while two players can finish 9 holes each in the same time. It’s crucial to book tee times ahead, especially during peak hours and weekends.

Post-golf, a brewery tour awaits to sample local craft beers. Many breweries offer tours that include behind-the-scenes looks at their brewing process and tasting sessions. This blend of golf and brews makes for an unforgettable day in Columbus.

Conclude your evening by exploring Columbus’ lively nightlife. The city is home to numerous live music venues, perfect for relaxing after a day of golf and beer tasting. Whether you’re into golf, craft beer, or both, Columbus has something unique in store for you.

Planning Your Columbus Golf Trip: Tips and Recommendations

Columbus, Ohio, is a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting a variety of public courses. These courses feature challenges and standout holes crafted by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus Jr., Donald Ross, and Robert Trent Jones, Sr. To secure tee times, it’s advisable to book early, especially for popular spots like The Virtues Golf Club or EagleSticks Golf Club.

For a distinctive experience, Turnberry Golf Course is a must-visit. This Scottish-links style course, situated just 20 minutes east of Columbus, offers tall grasses, deep bunkers, and elevated greens. Alternatively, Mentel Memorial Golf Course provides a more forgiving layout, spanning over 7,000 yards with a slope rating of 118, ideal for improving your game.

Post-golf, take part in Columbus’ dynamic food scene. The Columbus Commons houses a variety of food trucks for a laid-back meal. For a modern take on golfing, visit Topgolf or The Range, where you can sip cocktails while perfecting your swing. Also try to visit other premier public golf destinations for future trips.

Here’s a concise guide to planning your Columbus golf journey: