Orlando is a popular destination for golfers of all levels, thanks to its abundance of courses, resorts, and attractions. Whether you are looking for a challenging championship layout, a fun and scenic resort course, or a budget-friendly option, you will find it in Orlando. Here are some of the top golf courses in Orlando that you should check out on your next trip.
Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club
If you are looking for a unique and memorable golf experience, Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club is the place to go. This Steve Smyers-designed course features dramatic elevation changes, massive bunkers, and perched greens that resemble the courses of Australia. The course is located in Haines City, about 45 minutes from downtown Orlando, but it is well worth the drive. Southern Dunes has hosted several professional and amateur tournaments, and it is consistently ranked among the best courses in Florida.
Winter Park Golf Course
For a quick and fun round of golf, head to Winter Park Golf Course, also known as WP9. This nine-hole course is located in the heart of Winter Park, a charming town with shops, restaurants, and parks. The course was renovated in 2016 by architects Keith Rhebb and Riley Johns, who added creative greens and bunkers that make every hole a challenge. The course is only 2,400 yards long, but it offers plenty of variety and enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.
Shingle Creek Golf Club
Shingle Creek Golf Club is part of the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, a luxury hotel with amenities such as a spa, pool, and restaurants. The golf course was also renovated in 2016 by Arnold Palmer Design’s Thad Layton, who transformed the flat terrain into a stunning layout with undulating greens and fairways, strategic bunkering, and water hazards. The course is a test for any golfer, but it also provides scenic views of the natural surroundings.
Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge
If you want to play where the pros play, you can’t miss Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge. This private club opens its doors to guests who stay at the lodge, which offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as dining options and a spa. The club has three nine-hole courses: Challenger, Champion, and Charger. The Challenger/Champion combination hosts the PGA Tour’s Arnold Palmer Invitational every year, and it features some of the most iconic holes in golf, such as the par-5 sixth that wraps around a lake and the par-4 18th with a narrow fairway and a peninsula green.
Congo River Golf
If you are looking for something different from the typical golf course, Congo River Golf might be the answer. This is a miniature golf course that offers an adventure for the whole family. You can play 18 holes of award-winning mini golf amid waterfalls, caves, rainforests, and live alligators. You can also search for lost artifacts, mine for gemstones, and challenge your skills in the arcade. Congo River Golf has eight locations in Florida, including one on International Drive in Orlando.
Grand Cypress Golf
Grand Cypress Golf is another resort course that offers four different options: the New Course, which is inspired by the Old Course at St Andrews; the North Course, which features water hazards on 14 holes; the South Course, which has rolling terrain and large greens; and the East Course, which combines elements of both the North and South courses. All four courses are designed by Jack Nicklaus and offer a variety of challenges and scenery for golfers of all abilities. The max green fee is $175.
Dubsdread Golf Course
Dubsdread Golf Course is one of the oldest courses in Orlando, dating back to 1924. It has hosted legends such as Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and Babe Zaharias. The course is located near downtown Orlando and has a classic design with tree-lined fairways, small greens, and strategic bunkers. Dubsdread is also known for its friendly staff and affordable rates. The course has a learning center, a practice facility, and a restaurant on site. The max green fee is $49.
Orlando has something for everyone when it comes to golf. You can play on world-class courses designed by famous architects or enjoy a casual round on a local favorite. You can also combine golf with other attractions, such as theme parks, shopping malls, or museums. No matter what your budget or preference is, you will find a golf course in Orlando that suits your needs.