Ohio, often referred to as the Buckeye State, boasts a rich golfing history and is home to numerous top-notch courses catering to golfers of all skill levels. From the inceptions of the sport’s golden era to the present day, Ohio has consistently maintained its reputation as a premier golf destination. The state offers a mix of both public and private golf courses, each designed by renowned golf architects that beautifully blend natural landscapes with challenging course layouts.
Many legendary golf course designers, such as Seth Raynor, Jack Nicklaus, and Donald Ross have left their mark on Ohio’s golf scene, sculpting iconic courses that continually attract avid golfers from near and far. With various prestigious tournaments held at these venues, Ohio’s golf courses have gained national and international recognition. In addition to the state’s noteworthy private clubs, Ohio boasts numerous public courses that have earned high rankings and stellar reviews from experts and players alike.
Key Takeaways
- Ohio is known for its impressive golf courses, both public and private, designed by famed architects.
- The Buckeye State has a rich golfing history, hosting prestigious tournaments and featuring iconic courses.
- Golf courses in Ohio have earned widespread recognition, appearing in renowned publications and ranking lists.
The 10 Best Golf Courses in Ohio
Muirfield Village Golf Club (Dublin)
Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, Muirfield Village is often referred to as his masterpiece. It plays host to the annual PGA TOUR Memorial Tournament and is recognized for its meticulous conditioning, challenging layout, and the strategic placement of hazards. Its design honors traditional golf architecture while presenting challenges for all levels of players.
The Golf Club (New Albany)
Pete Dye crafted this gem, which remains one of his most esteemed creations. The Golf Club is an exclusive, private course known for its minimalist design, undulating terrain, and carefully thought-out holes. It’s a true testament to Dye’s architectural prowess.
Camargo Club (Cincinnati)
A classic Seth Raynor design, the Camargo Club boasts large, squared-off greens and numerous template holes. With its biarritz, redan, and double plateau greens, this course offers a master class in Golden Age design elements.
Inverness Club (Toledo)
A historic Donald Ross design, Inverness has played host to several major championships. It’s known for its challenging green complexes, tight fairways, and strategic bunkering. Over the years, it has seen updates, but the heart of Ross’s design remains intact.
Canterbury Golf Club (Cleveland)
Another classic design, Canterbury’s list of architects includes Donald Ross and Herbert Strong. The course has held numerous professional and amateur events, standing as a testament to its challenging yet fair design.
Firestone Country Club – South Course (Akron)
Home to numerous professional tournaments over the years, the South Course at Firestone, designed by Bert Way and revamped by Robert Trent Jones, is a long and challenging course with a storied history.
Double Eagle Club (Galena)
A secluded, private retreat, Double Eagle offers a serene golfing experience. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the course has a mix of woodland and links-style holes, ensuring a varied and memorable round.
NCR Country Club – South Course (Kettering)
A Dick Wilson design, the South Course has played host to the PGA Championship and U.S. Amateur. It’s a challenging layout with fast greens, strategic bunkering, and tree-lined fairways.
Brookside Golf & Country Club (Columbus)
Known for its tight fairways and pristine conditions, Brookside is a classic course offering a blend of challenge and beauty. It’s a favorite among many Ohio golfers for its strategic layout and beautiful scenery.
Scioto Country Club (Columbus)
Last, but not least on our list of the best golf courses in Ohios is another Donald Ross classic, Scioto holds a special place in golf history. Jack Nicklaus learned to play golf here, and its challenging layout has hosted numerous major championships. The course has maintained its Ross character while integrating modern updates over the years.
The Golden Era of Golf in Ohio
During the golden era of golf course design, Ohio rose to prominence with an exceptional collection of courses. Many of these courses are still considered top destinations today, capturing the attention and admiration of golf enthusiasts around the world.
Muirfield Village, a magnificent creation by Jack Nicklaus, stands as one of Ohio’s crown jewels. Opened in 1974, this prestigious course is renowned for its impeccable architecture and challenging play. Muirfield has been continuously revamped and improved to maintain its position among the best courses in the state.
Another notable course is Scioto, which was the stomping ground for young Jack Nicklaus as well as the site of legendary Bobby Jones’ victory at the 1926 U.S. Open. Scioto, established in 1915, has a rich history and represents an authentic Golden Age design.
In Cincinnati, Camargo offers golfers a classic challenge with its low-key atmosphere, deep bunkers, and large, squared-off greens. Designed by Seth Raynor in 1926, it ranks among the top golf courses in Ohio. At the heart of the golden era in Ohio is The Golf Club in New Albany, which provides golfers a pure experience surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Firestone is another revered course in Ohio, tied inextricably to the golden era through a connection with Byron Nelson, who won the 1945 PGA Championship on the course. Firestone, with three distinct courses, continues to uphold its legacy by hosting multiple championships throughout the years.
Toledo’s Inverness Club also played a pivotal role during this golden era, hosting four U.S. Opens and two PGA Championships in its history. Its challenging layout and classic design reflect the spirit of the golden age, making it a must-play destination for golf aficionados.
Additional gems from this time period include The Country Club and Double Eagle, both prominent courses that highlight Ohio’s dominance in the world of golf. These courses, much like Augusta National (Bobby Jones’ renown creation), are a testament to the enduring influence and skill of golden age designers and icons.
In summary, the golden era of golf in Ohio stands unmatched in terms of its legacy and the architectural prowess found among its courses. These hallowed grounds, frequented by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Bobby Jones, and Byron Nelson, are a source of inspiration for generations of golfers to come.
Prominent Courses, Members, and Designers
Ohio is home to a diverse array of top-tier golf courses, each presenting its own challenges and charm. Some of the most notable courses in the state include Camargo, located in Cincinnati, which was designed by esteemed architect Seth Raynor in 1926. Muirfield Village Golf Club, situated in Dublin, is another well-regarded course; it was built, and continually improved upon, by golf legend Jack Nicklaus.
Scioto Country Club in Columbus is another standout course, having been designed by the legendary Donald Ross. Nearby, Inverness Club in Toledo proudly represents the same designer’s work, while The Golf Club in New Albany presents a unique design by renowned golf course architect Pete Dye.
Several accomplished course designers have contributed to the esteemed reputation of Ohio’s golf offerings. Seth Raynor, for example, was responsible for the timeless design of Camargo, which has remained a top-ranked course over the decades. In contrast, Pete Dye, known for his innovative and distinct course design styles, left his mark on The Golf Club in New Albany.
Donald Ross, one of golf’s most prolific designers, also played a significant role in the shaping of Ohio’s golf landscape. Renowned for his strategic designs, Ross crafted multiple notable courses in the state, including Scioto Country Club and Inverness Club.
In addition to these revered course architects, other noteworthy designers have also left their mark on Ohio’s golf scene, such as Keith Foster, Andrew Green, Alex “Nipper” Campbell, and Desmond Muirhead. These designers have lent their creativity and expertise to the region, further enhancing Ohio’s golf reputation both nationally and globally.
Ohio’s Ticklist of Premier Public Courses
Ohio is home to numerous highly-rated public golf courses, suitable for both seasoned golfers as well as beginners. These public courses offer beautiful landscapes, superb playing conditions, and top-notch facilities, all at affordable prices.
Manakiki Golf Course in Willoughby Hills is a standout public course with a history dating back to 1928. Designed by Donald Ross, this course has been enjoyed by golfers for generations and continues to be a favorite in the region. Public access tobook tee times online, makes the golfing experience even more convenient.
Another widely regarded public golf course in Ohio is Sleepy Hollow Golf Course. Known for its challenging layout and picturesque views, it is considered one of the state’s top public facilities.
Sand Ridge in Chardon is an exceptional public golf course that has received acclaim in numerous publications. The course offers a unique and memorable round for all levels of golfers, with its stunning design and pristine fairways.
Venturing to Nashport, The Virtues Golf Club presents golfers with an Arthur Hills-designed course that consistently ranks as one of the top public-access courses in Ohio. The course’s online booking system and stay-and-play packages add to its appeal.
The Quarry in Canton is also worth mentioning. The course is known for its impressive layout and awe-inspiring landscape, making it a must-visit for any avid golfer seeking a memorable experience.
For those on the lookout for a hidden gem, Stonelick Hills is an exquisite course nestled away in Batavia. Immaculate grounds and a challenging layout make this a highly recommended public course.
Fans of Jerry Matthews-designed courses will appreciate Boulder Creek in Streetsboro, as it offers a fantastic golf experience and consistently receives positive reviews.
Mill Creek is another noteworthy public golf course that boasts a challenging landscape suitable for all skill levels. Its design and lush greenery make it a go-to choice for golf enthusiasts.
Lastly, The Golf Club in New Albany provides golfers with ample challenge and gorgeous vistas. As a popular public access course, it attracts players from all over the region.
In summary, Ohio offers a range of high-quality public golf courses for players of all level. From charming historical designs to modern masterpieces, these public-access courses deliver an enjoyable and challenging golf experience.
Noteworthy Private Golf Clubs
Kirtland, Canterbury, and NCR are among the prestigious private golf courses in Ohio. These clubs provide exemplary golf experiences, while maintaining a rich history and tradition within the state.
In the northeastern region of Ohio, Kirtland Country Club is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning scenery. Designed by renowned architect Charles H. Alison, Kirtland consistently ranks among the top golf courses in the state. Its well-manicured greens and strategic bunkering provide an exciting and rewarding experience for golf enthusiasts.
Canterbury Golf Club, also located in the northeast, is another elite course with a storied history. It has hosted numerous major championships and professional events, including the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and Senior PGA Championship, among others. Canterbury is characterized by its classic parkland design featuring tree-lined fairways and undulating greens, making it a true test of golf for all skill levels.
The NCR Country Club in the southwestern part of Ohio boasts two exceptional courses, the South Course and the North Course. The South Course, designed by legendary architect Dick Wilson, has played host to several prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Women’s Open. NCR’s North Course, while not as recognized, offers a unique and enjoyable golfing experience with its distinctive layout and challenging hole designs.
Camargo Club in Cincinnati is another top-rated private golf course in Ohio. This highly regarded course, designed by Seth Raynor, features a challenging and strategic layout with outstanding greens and immaculate conditioning. Camargo Club is often ranked among the best courses in the world, with its signature holes and renowned par-3s garnering particular praise.
Situated in the Cleveland suburb of Pepper Pike, the Pepper Pike Club is a historic Donald Ross masterpiece. With a traditional layout that features rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens, Pepper Pike Club has been a fixture among top Ohio courses for many years.
Coldstream Country Club in Cincinnati is another highly regarded private golf course in Ohio. The course is known for its lush fairways, fast greens, and beautiful scenery, providing golfers with an enjoyable and challenging experience. The club’s esteemed reputation has led to a significant number of course panelists considering it among the best in the state.
These private golf clubs exemplify Ohio’s rich golfing landscape and provide members and their guests with exceptional golf experiences. From challenging layouts to remarkable histories, these courses serve as a testament to the quality and diversity of golf opportunities available in the state.
Rankings and Reviews
In recent years, the state of Ohio has seen an increase in the number of prestigious golf courses that consistently rank among the best in the nation. Golf enthusiasts greatly appreciate the variety and quality of these courses, as reflected in numerous rankings and reviews from 2020 to 2023.
According to Golf Digest, Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio, has consistently maintained a high position in the rankings. Known for being the course that legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus built and refined over time, it is no surprise that it enjoys a reputable status among golfers and critics alike.
GOLF Magazine’s raters have also recognized the excellence of several Ohio golf courses. Among their top picks, Camargo, a 1926 Seth Raynor creation in Cincinnati, holds the number one position due to its challenging bunkers and expansive greens.
Top 100 Golf Courses’ list features a variety of well-regarded courses in Ohio, including Camargo, Muirfield Village, The Golf Club in New Albany, Scioto in Columbus, and Inverness Club in Toledo. These courses not only offer exceptional golf experiences but also contribute greatly to Ohio’s golfing heritage.
In addition to these recognitions, the Golfers’ Choice 2021 list showcases several highly regarded golf courses in Ohio, such as Stonelick Hills Golf Course in Batavia, Gleneagles Golf Club in Twinsburg, Heatherwoode Golf Club in Springboro, Shaker Run Golf Club in Lebanon, and Eagle Creek Golf Club in Norwalk. These clubs form a quintessential part of the Golfers’ Choice 2023 lists.
The ratings index logic considers various factors, such as quality of the course, customer service, accessibility, and overall experience when reviewing and ranking golf courses. This ensures that the lists produced are based on merit, enabling prospective golfers to make informed decisions when planning their golfing excursions.
In conclusion, the numerous high-quality golf courses in Ohio are the result of consistent reviews and ratings by both critics and golfers from various organizations. As these courses continue to be acknowledged on prestigious lists, Ohio’s golfing landscape will continue to grow in popularity and recognition.
Contribute to The Golf Community
Ohio boasts a rich golfing landscape, with numerous top-notch courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. By becoming an active participant in the golf community, not only can you enhance your own golfing experience, but also contribute to the overall improvement of Ohio’s golf scene. Anyone who is eligible can join the community of reviewers and help shape the golf landscape in Ohio.
Weighted subcategory averages are a crucial component in determining the best golf courses in the state. By providing accurate and detailed reviews of specific courses, members of the golfing community play a vital role in generating these ratings. The more thorough and comprehensive the reviews are, the more reliable and valuable the resulting rankings become.
Getting involved is easy and rewarding. Members can offer their insights and reviews on various aspects of their favorite courses, such as maintenance, design, and overall experience. Additionally, by being part of this community, you’ll have the opportunity to exchange tips and ideas with fellow golf enthusiasts. Such interactions can serve to elevate the overall enjoyment and camaraderie within the community.
In conclusion, engaging with the golf community can prove to be an enriching experience for both individuals and the overall golfing scene in Ohio. By providing valuable input and fostering connections with fellow golfers, you can help Ohio’s courses continue to thrive and grow.
Highlighted Events and Tournaments
Ohio is home to several prestigious golf courses and hosts numerous professional events and tournaments throughout the year, showcasing the state’s rich golfing landscape. Among these, the Memorial Tournament and the Ryder Cup are significant events attracting elite players and fans worldwide.
The Memorial Tournament is held annually at the esteemed Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this course has been continually refined since its opening in 1974. The tournament, also founded by Jack Nicklaus, has been a staple on the PGA Tour calendar and consistently attracts top professional golfers. The event not only celebrates the greats of the game but also contributes to significant philanthropic causes.
Ohio is also proud to host the Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious and historic golf tournaments globally. This biennial event pits teams from the United States against those from Europe in a hard-fought battle for national pride and golfing supremacy. Inverness Club, located in Toledo, Ohio, has been selected to host the 2031 Ryder Cup. This club holds an impressive legacy, having previously hosted four US Opens and two PGA Championships.
In 2021, Ohio welcomed golf enthusiasts to six professional golf tournaments, including:
- Firestone Country Club in Akron for the Marathon LPGA Classic
- Highland Meadows Golf Club in Sylvania for the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship
- The Ohio State University Golf Club in Columbus for the Marathon LPGA Classic Presented by Dana
With a history of distinguished golf courses, high-profile events, and a diverse array of tournaments, Ohio continues to inspire and challenge golfers at all levels while capturing the imagination of fans around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top public golf courses in Northeast Ohio?
There are several highly rated public golf courses in Northeast Ohio. Some of these include Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, Fowler’s Mill Golf Course, and Boulder Creek Golf Club. Additionally, there are other prominent public courses that provide value and quality golfing experiences for players.
Which golf courses in Columbus are highly recommended?
Golf enthusiasts visiting Columbus, Ohio have a wide range of options. Some highly recommended golf courses in the area include Scioto Country Club, Muirfield Village Golf Club, and The Golf Club at Little Turtle. These courses offer well-maintained greens, challenging layouts, and impressive facilities.
What are the most outstanding private golf courses in Ohio?
Ohio is home to some renowned private golf courses that consistently rank among the best in the nation. Notable courses include Camargo Club, The Golf Club, and Muirfield Village Golf Club. Featuring picturesque landscapes and challenging designs, these courses provide an exclusive and memorable golfing experience for their members.
Which Cleveland golf courses rank the highest?
Cleveland, Ohio boasts a variety of top-rated golf courses that cater to a diverse range of skill levels and preferences. Among them, Cleveland Metroparks Golf, StoneWater Golf Club, and The Mayfield Sand Ridge Club are consistently praised for their excellent course conditions, presentation, and amenities.
Where can I find a map of Ohio golf courses?
A comprehensive map of Ohio golf courses can typically be found through online resources, such as golf course listing websites and golf-related forums. Additionally, local golf associations or tourism departments may provide maps and information on golf courses in the state.
What are the best private golf courses in Cleveland?
Several private golf courses in Cleveland rank highly for their exceptional quality and exclusivity. Some of the top private courses include The Country Club, Kirtland Country Club, and The Mayfield Sand Ridge Club. These courses offer meticulously maintained greens, beautiful surroundings, and world-class facilities for their members.