Grass is Always Greener — Top-Rated Minnesota Golf Courses

There are approximately 585 golf courses in Minnesota. While this abundance brings pleasure to those passionate pursuers of puttering on greens and fairways, it also invites comparisons. Whether you’re planning a golf tournament or just a round for the corporate execs, wouldn’t it be nice to know which courses offer a game that’s good, and which ones offer a golf experience that’s great? Here’s what we think and why:

Bunker Hills Golf Club

What to expect: Since 1968, Bunker Hills has been a premier golf destination in Coon Rapids. Recognized by Golf Digest as one of the top 25 public courses in the country, the challenging 27-hole course features large greens, tree-lined fairways, seven water hazards, and seventy-five bunkers.

Why we love it: Beginning in 1970, Bunker Hills racked up some major tournie hosting gigs, including those for the PGA Senior Tour, National PGA Junior Series, and the Minnesota State Open. Little wonder with its variety of holes and beautiful, natural setting. What’s more, post-game offers players the opportunity to kick back at on-site Kendall’s Tavern + Chophouse or enjoy a larger golf event for up to 360 guests at the spacious Bunker Hills Event Center.

Grand View Lodge

What to expect: Grand View Lodge is a golf mecca for all who make it their mission to play at exceptional courses. Grandview is one of the most awarded golf resorts in Minnesota and features three gorgeous courses and 54 holes for every level, from the casual Sunday duffer to those golf groupies who come to play.

Why we love it: Beautifully maintained, Grand View Lodge courses each offer a different experience. The more challenging Pines is considered a “players course,” while The Preserve features some of the best forest and wetlands in the state. Finally, The Garden is a leisurely course ideal for family friendly games. Grand View Lodge offers rustic and luxe accommodations, spa, dining, and a wide range of meeting and event spaces.

Green Haven Golf Course

What to expect: Located at the heart of historic Anoka, Green Haven boasts 18 championship holes in a park-like setting ideal for everyone from the high handicap player to the single digit handicap player.

Why we love it: For as few as 16 players or as many as 164, a tournament at Green Haven is always unforgettable. A wide variety of 3-,4-, and 5-par holes combine with exceptional course conditioning, a welcoming banquet facility, great food, a central location, extraordinary service, and affordable tournament packages, all making this club a popular favorite.

Majestic Oaks Golf Club

What to expect: Removed from the hustle and bustle of urban areas, Majestic Oaks is a true countryside golf experience located just 20 minutes north of the metro. Featuring two 18-hole courses and one executive 9-hole course, it offers challenges and a rewarding experience for every level of golfer.

Why we love it: We know you’ll appreciate the upscale amenities at Majestic Oaks, including the award-winning dinner theater as well as the Majestic Ballroom banquet facility with dance floor, full-service bar, and patio that overlooks the lush green golf course, ponds, and fountains. A perfect space for up to 280 guests.

Rush Creek Golf Club

What to expect: Named “Best Public Golf Course in the City by Forbes, Rush Creek harmonizes with nature to create a wonderful 18-hole championship golf course that has played host to three LPGA Tour events and the 2004 US Amateur Public Links Championship.

Why we love it: Designed by Bob Cupp and John Fought, the par 72 course features five sets of tees to accommodate every level of player. The MacMillan Ballroom + Banquet center with southwest exposure offers breathtaking views of the course and wetlands, while the Highlander Restaurant + Pub welcomes guests with a stone fireplace and stunning views of the course from the terrace.

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge

What to expect: Known as one of the most scenic golf resorts in the area, the par 72 Lakes course rambles through woods and along the sparkling waters of Goose and Bass Lakes. Alec’s Nine course was the first one built in the state in 1921. The classic and less challenging par 34 is perfect for quick games or family fun.

Why we love it: This peaceful resort offers guests the same warm, welcoming environment that they did when they opened their doors in 1921. A wide assortment of comfy accommodations range from cabins, to lodge rooms, to villas and cottages. Dining options are either formal and casual, while the on-site spa provides the perfect opportunity for relaxation at the end of the day.

TPC of the Twin Cities

What to expect: TPC is Minnesota’s only private PGA Tour-owned property and is located just minutes north of the metro. Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer himself, the 18-hole course features 235 acres of breathtaking countryside.

Why we love it: Sophistication abounds at this championship club with 27,000-square foot practice facility, a spacious clubhouse, casual and fine dining, an award-winning golf shop (named among the “Top 100 Golf Shops in the US” by Golf World Business), and a variety of banquet rooms ideally suited for your tournament or event.

Of course, this is just a smattering of the courses out there that are on par with your tournament goals. We know choosing just one might be rough, but once you start researching your options, we think you’ll find your sweet spot.