It's time to hit the links. Find the best golf courses in Atlanta, whether you're a beginner to the game or a seasoned pro.
Settindown Creek Course of Ansley Golf Club
Designed by Bob Cupp, this relatively flat private course welcomes walking, particularly on the front nine. The Little River frames the course, which is pocked with towering trees and large native areas to up the ante. After you finish the back nine, meander over to the neighboring farm and winery for a celebratory glass. 1608 Settindown Drive, Roswell, 770.640.4620, ansleygc.org
The Frog Golf Club
Armed with its Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary status, it comes as no surprise that this course is consistently considered a favorite amongst Atlantans. Tom Fazio designed the 18-hole course, complete with bentgrass greens and extensive bunkering. 2699 Georgian Parkway, Villa Rica, 770.459.4400, golfthefrog.com
Hawks Ridge Golf Club
This 27-hole Bob Cupp design brings old-world elegance to the Atlanta metropolitan area. All 550 acres are laden with towering pines, changing elevations and water hazards that push players to deliver their A-game. The course sits within a private community north of Atlanta where members enjoy personal golf instruction, a helipad, a state-of-the-art golf training center, fine dining and world-class staff service. 1100 Hawks Club Drive, Ball Ground, 770.205.6889, hawksridge.com
Atlanta Country Club
Since its founding in 1964, this club has hosted multiple PGA and USGA events due to its rich tradition and history in golf matched with its world-class course. Surrounded by Civil War sites, the Chattahoochee River and Sope Creek, this course transports its players far from the nearby city. Elevation changes and hole variety bring the heat, making this course a go-to for serious Atlanta-based players. 500 Atlanta Country Club Drive, Marietta, 770.953.2100, atlantacountryclub.org
Echelon Golf Club
Spanning over 600-acres and designed by Rees Jones, this course is not one to miss. Rolling hills provide elevation changes and sprawling views while a 32-acre practice and training facility gives ample opportunity for improvement. Sitting just 40 minutes from city center, there’s little reason not to swing by. 501 Founders Drive E, Alpharetta, 770.888.4653, echelongolf.com
Highlands Course of Atlanta Athletic Club
This course is not for the faint of heart, as its sloping greens are demanding and the finishing stretch puts even the best players to the test. However, multiple sets of tee markers allow players to choose the length of course they prefer and the club has a great 9-hole Par 3 course for learners. Not to mention, the course is always kept in immaculate condition, ensuring every time you make the trip is well worth it. 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek, 770.448.2166, atlantaathleticclub.org
East Lake Golf Club
There’s a reason this club is the permanent home of the PGA Tour Championship, and you’ll likely recognize it as the locale of some of golf’s greatest moments, such as Tiger Woods’ 2018 comeback. East Lake is the oldest golf course in Atlanta proper and was originally conceptualized by Tom Bendelow before it was reworked by Donald Ross and finally restored by Rees Jones in 1994. Be sure to check out the memorabilia in the clubhouse while you’re there. 2575 Alston Drive SE, 404.373.5722, eastlakegolfclub.com
Bobby Jones Golf Course
Nestled in the middle of Buckhead, Bobby Jones is more than just a round of golf. Named for the famous golfer, you can play tennis, pickle ball, join the Grand Slam Golf Company or grab a bite at Murray Golf House. Bobby Jones is a community in and of itself, drawing Atlantans daily to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Plan a date night at Boone, and take in all of the activity happening right in your neighborhood while you relax on their patio and watch the sun go down. bobbyjonesgc.com
Photography by: Unsplash / Will Porada
