Where Are the Best Golf Courses in & Around Minneapolis, MN?
When one thinks of Minneapolis, they may think of cold temperatures and days without much sunlight. However, the city offers much more, from luxury homes and lakefront properties to many things to do around the city.
Minnesota is the only state in the U.S. to have the honor of hosting all 13 USGA championships over the years. Minneapolis is one of the state’s best golfing destinations and should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Whether someone is just beginning the sport, has an impressive handicap, or is planning a move to the area, everyone can find the perfect golf course in this city. The following list provides all there is to know regarding the best golf courses near Minneapolis.
Hiawatha Golf Course
Hiawatha Golf Course is a par-73, 18-hole golf course situated next to Lake Hiawatha. The course is generally flat and surrounded by mature trees. Most of the greens are small, adding a challenge for novice golfers. Two fairways and four tees provide golfers with beautiful lakeside views overlooking 12 ponds and 30 sand traps strategically designed into the area.
Constructed in 1929, the Hiawatha Golf Course has a rich history. It has hosted many events such as MGA, MWPGA, National Pub-Links, and State Amateur Sectional Qualifiers. As a long-time community favorite golf course, Hiawatha Golf Course was named City Pages’ Best Golf Course in 2004 and 2008 and Best Park Readers’ Choice in 2009.
Golfers will find plenty of amenities in the course’s clubhouse and outside, including free Wi-Fi, a locker room, pro shop, and snack bar. Those who want to improve their game can take advantage of the Hiawatha Learning Center, driving range, family tees, and practice green.
Hiawatha Golf Course Additional Information
- Address: Hiawatha Golf Course, 4553 Longfellow Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
- Hours: 6 a.m.–9:30 p.m. daily
- Public or Private: Public
Theodore Wirth Golf Course
Theodore Wirth Golf Course is one of the oldest golf courses available for public use in the entire state of Minnesota. Several areas on the course boast scenic views of the Minneapolis skyline. The front nine is built around Bassett Creek and features a few human-made lagoons to add an extra challenge. The back nine features many rolling hills and mature trees.
Modeled after a Swiss Chalet, the golf course’s clubhouse is a stunning sight. The lower level features a fireplace room, locker room, pro shop, and restaurant. The upper level can be reserved for special events such as weddings or upscale parties of 100 people or fewer.
The Theodore Wirth Golf Course features a practice green for visitors to use to improve their skills. Both areas are open on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Theodore Wirth Golf Course Additional Information
- Address: Theodore Wirth Regional Park, 1301 Theodore Wirth Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55422
- Hours: 6 a.m.–6:50 p.m.
- Public or Private: Public
Columbia Golf Club
Columbia Golf Club began as a simple 6-hole, sand green golf course in 1919, offering moderate outdoor fun for beginners and avid golfers alike. Due to its proximity to downtown Minneapolis, the course quickly grew in popularity and expanded to a complete 18-hole course in 1923.
Gentle rolling hills and mature tree-lined fairways are standard throughout the course. Many bunkers and water hazards add a few additional challenges. Multiple tees are available on each hole to add difficulty for players of all skill levels.
Vistas are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Views of the Minneapolis skyline are the perfect ending to a long day on the course. Inside the clubhouse, visitors will enjoy free Wi-Fi, a locker room, a pro shop, and a restaurant. Those who want to improve their game can access the Columbia Learning Center, driving range, family tees, and practice green.
Columbia Golf Club Additional Information
- Address: Columbia Golf Club, 3300 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
- Hours: 6 a.m.–6:50 p.m.
- Public or Private: Public
Highland National Golf Course
Highland National Golf Course has improved since its humble beginnings. In 2003, the course closed and underwent two years of construction to enhance its design and clubhouse. The course reopened in 2005 and has remained a favorite in nearby St. Paul.
The course retains its traditional design while incorporating increased challenges for golfers. Now an 18-hole, 3,200-to-6,600 yard, par-72 course, Highland National Golf Course has earned a 71.2 rating and is most famous for its signature hole, the 15th. It features a “Snoopy” bunker in honor of Charles Schulz, who learned to play golf here. Upon his passing, his wife granted the course permission to create the custom-shaped bunker in his honor.
Highland National Golf Course Additional Information
- Address: Highland National Golf Course, 1403 Montreal Ave, St Paul, MN 55116
- Hours: 7:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Public or Private: Public
Braemar Golf Course
Over 500 acres of hills, lakes, and oak ridges comprise Braemar Golf Course in Edina, but the 20-minute drive from Minneapolis is well worth every second.
Braemar was constructed in 1963 and features an 18-hole course, a driving range, and a par three course. Over the years, the course has been consistently expanding and changing to keep up with today’s golfers’ modern needs and challenges. Many established players and first-timers find Braemar is perfect for giving anyone, regardless of their skill level, a fun or challenging day.
Braemar Golf Course Additional Information
- Address: Braemar Golf Course, 6364 John Harris Dr, Edina, MN 55439
- Hours: 6:30 a.m.–8 p.m. daily
- Public or Private: Public
Meadowbrook Golf Course
Meadowbrook Golf Course has been serving the golfing community since 1926. Just minutes from downtown Minneapolis in Hopkins, the course designed by John Foulis Jr. is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. Featuring 18 holes, food and beverage service, and a pro shop, Meadowbrook serves individual golfers, group golfing, corporate events, and special events.
The course was completely renovated in 1995. During the renovation, 14 new water hazards and more tees were added to allow players of all skill levels to push their golfing abilities. While the course is open to the public, reservations are highly recommended.
Meadowbrook Golf Course Additional Information
- Address: Meadowbrook Golf Course, 201 Meadowbrook Rd, Hopkins, MN 55343
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Public or Private: Public
The Town & Country Club
While The Town & Country Club was constructed between 1887 and 1890, the first round of golf was not played until 1893.
After more than a century, The Town & Country Club has become a world-class golf course sought after by golfers from around the world. The 18-hole course includes many challenging features and hazards. Even the greens on this course are some of the fastest in the entire state.
Besides offering the best golf game in the area, The Town & Country Club provides a complete range of fitness activities. Visitors can use the indoor golf simulator, heated outdoor swimming pool, zero-entry toddler pool, fitness center, and tennis courts. Furthermore, the club has five member dining areas and 85+ social events throughout the year.
Because the club is private, people must join The Town & Country Club to access the amenities and facilities mentioned above. However, the club does allow non-members to schedule events such as weddings and business meetings. The clubhouse boasts impressive views of the Minneapolis skyline that make any occasion even more memorable.
The Town & Country Club Additional Information
- Address: The Town & Country Club, 300 N Mississippi River Blvd, St Paul, MN 55104
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday 7 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Public or Private: Private
Discover Minneapolis’ Best Golf Courses
As one can see, Minneapolis engages with the golfing community. Between world-class courses, exceptional course designs, challenging hazards, and impressive clubhouses, golfers of all ages and skill levels are sure to find a public or private golf course in Minneapolis that suits their needs. The next time one thinks of Minneapolis, the ideas of cold winters should be replaced with manicured golf courses and schedules for upcoming tee times.
If Minneapolis is the city for you, contact Kris Lindahl Real Estate at 1-(855) 967-7653 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your dream home today.
