Michigan Golf Course Statistics
- Total Golf Courses: 859, making it one of the top states for golf courses.
- Public Golf Courses: 738 public courses – Michigan has the highest number of public courses of any state.
- Oldest Golf Course: Kent Country Club, established in 1896, in Grand Rapids.
- Longest Golf Course: The longest golf course in Michigan is The Lost Dunes Golf Club, which measures 7,200 yards from the championship tees. This private course is located in Bridgman, Michigan, and is known for its scenic views and challenging layout.
- Hardest Golf Course: Michigan’s top courses, including Oakland Hills Country Club, have hosted prestigious tournaments, making them some of the most challenging in the country. Fun fact, one of our sales reps used to be the Head Pro at Oakland Hills Country Club and has some great stories about hosting some of the biggest majors in history there.
Unique Michigan Golf Hole Features
Michigan is home to unique courses with standout features that golfers love:
- Hidden River Golf and Casting Club (Brutus, MI): The course includes unique features such as elevation changes, a stand of pine and hardwood trees, and the scenic Maple River winding through the layout. Designed by W. Bruce Matthews III
- Arcadia Bluffs (Arcadia, MI): The course is set on the bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, featuring challenging undulating holes, natural dunes, and views of the lake. It is renowned for its sod-walled bunkers and scenic aesthetics, including one of the most scenic par-5 holes in Michigan. The course drops 225 feet from its highest point to lake level, enhancing its difficulty and appeal. Designed by Warren Henderson and Rick Smith.
- Heritage Glen Golf Course (Paw Paw, MI): Relaxing atmosphere of pine forests with Scottish-links style fairways, challenging layout with scenic views. Designed by Jerry Matthews.
- Bay Harbor Golf Club (Petoskey, MI): The course features dramatic elements such as 40-foot gorges, stone cliffs, and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, contributing to a challenging and aesthetically pleasing golf experience. Designed by: Arthur Hills
- The Donald Ross Memorial (Harbor Springs, MI): The Donald Ross Memorial is a composite of classic golf holes designed by Donald Ross, creating a ‘greatest hits’ compilation of his best-known holes from various renowned courses. Designed by Donald Ross, Bill Newcomb, E. Kircher, and others.
- Treetops Golf Resort (Gaylord, MI): Treetops course, recognized as the #1 par-3 course in the country, known for its challenging play and beautiful views. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Tom Fazio, Rick Smith.
- Tullymore Golf Resort (Stanwood, MI): The course features stunning landscapes with a routing through 800 acres of woods, meadows, and wetlands, and has been recognized among the top public and resort courses in America, complimented for its challenging layout and unique green surfaces. Designed by Jim Engh.
- Brae Burn Golf Club (Plymouth, MI): The signature 13th hole, “The Monster,” is a 666-yard long par 5, making it the longest par 5 in Michigan.
The 5 Hardest Golf Holes in Michigan
Up for a challenge? These Michigan golf holes will test your skills and patience:
- Hole 18 at Oakland Hills Country Club (South Course, Bloomfield Hills): A long, par-4 that has tested professionals at U.S. Opens.
- Hole 11 at Arcadia Bluffs (Arcadia): This par-5, with the wind off Lake Michigan, makes club selection tricky.
- Hole 6 at Treetops Resort (Threetops Course, Gaylord): A short but deceptive par-3 with dramatic elevation changes.
- Hole 17 at Forest Dunes (Roscommon): A par-4 that requires precision off the tee to avoid dense forest on both sides.
- Hole 9 at The Loop (Roscommon): Played on a reversible course, this par-3 is tough no matter which direction the wind is blowing.
Public vs. Private Golf Courses in Michigan
Michigan offers an abundance of public golf options, making it easy for golfers to find a round at an affordable price:
- Public Courses: With 738 public golf courses, Michigan leads the nation in accessible golf. From beginner-friendly courses like Pine View Golf Course to renowned destinations like The Fortress, Michigan’s public golf courses offer diverse experiences at price points that make the game approachable for everyone.
- Private Courses: Michigan’s 105 private courses offer top-tier experiences for members. Courses like Oakland Hills Country Club are famous for their meticulously maintained greens and challenging layouts. These private courses, often hosting prestigious events, provide a more exclusive golfing experience.
Top Historical Golf Course Events in Michigan
Michigan has played host to some of the biggest events in golf, attracting top players from around the world:
- Oakland Hills Country Club: This legendary course has hosted six U.S. Opens, including the famous 1951 Open won by Ben Hogan. The course continues to be a top venue for prestigious tournaments.
- The Ally Challenge at Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club: Part of the PGA Champions Tour, this tournament attracts golf’s greatest legends each year and showcases the beauty of Michigan golf.
Golfer Statistics in Michigan
Golf is a big part of life for many Michigan residents. With nearly 896,700 golfers calling the state home, Michigan ranks among the top states for golf participation.
- Rounds Played: In 2023, an estimated 16.42 million rounds were played in Michigan, highlighting the popularity of the sport.
- Public Course Popularity: A majority of rounds in Michigan are played on public courses, thanks to their affordability and variety.
- Participation Rates: About 896,700 residents play traditional golf, with more golfers flocking to off-course activities like driving ranges and simulators.
Famous Golfers from Michigan
Michigan has produced some of golf’s greats, including:
- Walter Hagen (Rochester): A true legend, Hagen was one of the most successful golfers in the early 20th century, winning 11 major championships.
- Dave Hill (Jackson): Known for his accuracy and competitive spirit, Hill won 13 PGA Tour events during his career.
Economic Impact of Golf in Michigan
Golf plays a significant role in Michigan’s economy, contributing an estimated $6.1 billion annually. The sport provides jobs and boosts tourism, making it an essential industry for the state.
- Job Creation: The golf industry supports around 61,000 jobs, spanning course operations, hospitality, and retail.
- Golf Tourism: Each year, over 1.85 million golfers travel to Michigan for golf, spending over $1 billion in the state. This makes Michigan a top destination for golf tourism in the U.S.
- Revenue and Taxes: The golf industry in Michigan generates over $821 million in state and local taxes, further emphasizing its economic importance.
Golf Courses By City
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1 Golf Course and 3 Deals
1 Golf Course and 7 Deals
2 Golf Courses and 9 Deals
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5 Golf Courses and 17 Deals
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about the golf courses on TeeTime Golf Pass below:
Michigan has 859 golf courses, with 738 public courses, making it one of the top states in the U.S. for accessible golf.
Oakland Hills Country Club is considered one of the hardest, known for its championship-level layout and hosting prestigious events like the U.S. Open.
Popular public courses include Arcadia Bluffs and Forest Dunes, known for their stunning landscapes and challenging designs.
A round of golf at Michigan’s public courses typically ranges from $30 to $75, depending on the course and time of year. Of course, you can always save on tee times with TeeTime Golf Pass. Michigan is featured in our Upper Midwest Golf Pass here.
Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, established in 1896, holds the title for the oldest golf course in Michigan.
Detroit, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids are some of the top cities for golfers in Michigan, offering a range of courses from public gems to private exclusives.