May 5, 2021
All of Wisconsin is abuzz after the Ryder Cup was hosted in the state in 2021, proof that Wisconsin golf courses rank among the best in all the land, and that includes some standout Wisconsin Dells golf courses.
Insider Tips on the Best Golf Courses in Wisconsin
Some of the best golf courses in Wisconsin are right here in Wisconsin Dells. And by “best” we mean championship caliber, famous designers, the site of U.S. qualifying rounds, and amply awarded. Even with those credentials, the following courses were all designed to accommodate all skill levels and age ranges, making Wisconsin Dells a unique family-friendly golf destination and a perfect golf experience.
New Short Course and Putting Course Put This One at the Top Among Wisconsin Golf Courses: TRAPPERS TURN GOLF CLUB
At 27 holes, this course combines the challenges of strategic design with playability for golfers of all levels. The spring-fed Mystic Lake creates a point of beauty and drama.
New for 2021: This summer Trappers Turn Golf Club opens a new 12-hole short course called 12North, designed by two-time U.S. Open champion and Wisconsin native, Andy North. There are no set tee boxes on the short course, with lots of areas to tee off from, making it both fun and challenging. Trappers Turn Golf Club is also adding a 12-hole putting course that will be lit at night. For those playing on the golf course, this amenity is free to golfers.
Course Record: Ryder Cup Captain and Wisconsin native Steve Stricker holds the course record at Trappers Turn set during the 1998 Wisconsin State Open. He shot 64 and won by 11 strokes.
Ranked #5 on Golf Magazine’s list of the “Top 10 New Courses You Can Play” when it opened this 18-hole championship course, designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, is built around and through an old quarry which accounts for the rocky mounds and extreme elevation changes. It was the site of a qualifying round for the U.S. Open.
The views: Bring your camera to grab a panorama, courtesy of the 30-miles-away view to the quartzite cliffs known as the Baraboo Bluffs.
Another option: If you’re short on time or a beginner golfer looking to work on your game, the Woods Short Course, with great views of its own and an island green, is a perfect option for a round of nine.
This 18-hole course with a Scottish links-style back nine sports secluded fairways created by hills, moguls, and bunkers. The most challenging holes are the par 3s on the front nine. All can be described as above average in length with small, postage-stamp greens.
History trivia: The front nine was constructed entirely from horse-drawn equipment and opened in June 1923.
Be sure to check out: The clubhouse and Tavern Restaurant. The patio is the preferred spot to enjoy a cold brew after a round of 18, with firepits to chase away crisp evening air.
Fairfield Hills Golf Course & Driving Range is one of the few 12-hole golf courses in Wisconsin. The unique design allows golfers to play 3, 9, 12 or 18 holes. Arrive early to take some practice swings on the area’s largest and longest practice range, with 34 stations and 350 yards.
Designed for families: Not too difficult for kids but challenging enough for more experienced golfers plus a great starting price makes this course ideal for families.
Fling golf and disc golf too: Fairfield offers fling golf, using a lacrosse-style fling stick to hurl the ball down the fairway. Or try the new expanded 18-hole disc golf course.
This meticulously groomed 9-hole, par 36 course is set amidst tall pines on the grounds of Spring Brook Resort. Stay in one of the home rentals, take advantage of the pro shop, and enjoy pub fare at the sports bar & grill.
Golf and groups are a natural pair: If you’re in charge of planning the family reunion, bachelor party or company picnic, Spring Brook will make you look like a superstar planner.