Virginia Golf Course Stats
Virginia’s golf scene is diverse, with a whopping 364 golf courses scattered across the state. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect on the greens:
- Total Golf Courses: Virginia has 364 courses, including 195 public, 48 municipal, and 121 private options.
- Oldest Course: The Omni Homestead Resort, established in 1892, is the oldest golf course in the state. Playing here feels like a step back in time!
- Longest Course: If you’re up for a challenge, head to The Club at Viniterra, which stretches 7,725 yards from the back tees—Virginia’s longest golf course.
- Easiest Course: For a relaxing round, Burke Lake Golf Center is considered one of the easiest in Virginia, perfect if you’re just getting into the game.
- Hardest Course: Gordon Trent Golf Club is known as the toughest course in the state, so if you’re looking to test your skills, this one’s for you.
Virginia’s Golfing Legacy
Virginia’s golf history is rich, with some memorable events that add to the state’s legacy:
- 1949 PGA Championship at Hermitage Country Club (Richmond): The only men’s major championship ever held in Virginia.
- 1966 Curtis Cup at The Cascades Course: An exciting U.S. vs. Great Britain women’s amateur match.
- 1988 U.S. Amateur Championship: Also hosted at The Cascades, featuring amateur players who would go on to be golf legends.
Unique Virginia Golf Course Holes
Virginia has some unforgettable holes that are more than just fairways and greens—they’re landmarks in themselves:
- Golden Horseshoe Golf Club’s Gold Course (Williamsburg, VA): The par-3 16th hole here features an island green. You’ll need to hit a precise shot over water, but the thrill (and view) is worth it!
- The River Course at Kingsmill Resort (Williamsburg,VA): The 17th hole, a par-3 set along a bluff over the James River, is both breathtaking and challenging.
Virginia’s Toughest Golf Holes
Virginia isn’t short on holes that’ll make you sweat. Here are five of the toughest:
- Old Hickory Golf Club, Woodbridge – Hole 18 (Par 5, 620 yards): This formidable finishing hole requires a drive over a ravine, with a natural waste area to the left. Many consider it the toughest golf hole in Northern Virginia.
- Bristow Manor Golf Club, Bristow – Hole 7 (Par 4, 467 yards): Locally voted as one of the Top Ten Toughest Holes in Northern Virginia, this par 4 challenges golfers with its length and design.
- Golden Horseshoe Golf Club’s Gold Course, Williamsburg – Hole 16 (Par 3): This iconic hole features an island green, demanding precision and control to avoid the surrounding water.
- The River Course at Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg – Hole 17 (Par 3): Perched along a bluff above the James River, this hole offers breathtaking views and a challenging shot over water.
- The Cascades Course at The Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs – Hole 4 (Par 3): Known for its dramatic elevation changes, this hole requires an accurate tee shot to a well-protected green.
Virginia Golfers
There are approximately 688,000 golfers in Virginia out of a population of 8.7M meaning about 8% of Virginia residents are golfers.
Famous Virginia Golfers
Virginia has produced some legends:
- Sam Snead: Born in Ashwood, VA, Snead is a golfing icon with 82 PGA Tour wins, including seven majors.
- Lanny Wadkins: From Richmond, VA, Wadkins has 21 PGA Tour titles under his belt, including the 1977 PGA Championship.
Golf’s Economic Impact Virginia
Golf isn’t just a sport in Virginia—it’s a big part of the economy, too:
- Jobs: Virginia’s golf industry supports about 40,000 jobs, from course maintenance to hospitality.
- Golf Tourism: Virginia’s courses draw golfers from all over the country, which boosts tourism.
- Revenue: Golf generates about $3.1 billion annually in Virginia, including course operations, equipment sales, and local business support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about the golf courses on TeeTime Golf Pass below:
Virginia has 364 golf courses, including public, municipal, and private options for golfers of every skill level.
Gordon Trent Golf Club is often considered the toughest course in Virginia, with a challenging layout that tests even the pros.
The Omni Homestead Resort, established way back in 1892, is Virginia’s oldest course, offering golfers a truly historic experience.
Virginia has 195 public courses, so there are plenty of options for those looking to play without a private membership.