If you're wondering where to find the best golf courses near Memphis, TN, start with TPC Southwind, Memphis Country Club, Mirimichi, The Links at Overton Park, and The Links at Audubon.
Each offers a distinct experience—from PGA-level challenges to eco-friendly design and beginner-friendly layouts—so keep reading to see which one fits your game best.
TPC Southwind – The Premier Private Tour-Tested Experience
TPC Southwind isn’t just one of the top golf courses near Memphis—it’s where the pros play.
Tucked inside the gated Southwind community in Southeast Memphis, this private club delivers a serious test of skill and course management in a PGA Tour-caliber setting.
A Championship-Level Layout with Tour Pedigree
TPC Southwind has been part of the PGA Tour rotation since 1989, and since 2022, it’s hosted the FedEx St. Jude Championship, a key playoff event.
That kind of credibility speaks volumes, especially for players who want to challenge themselves on the same ground as the world’s best.
The course stretches to 7,244 yards from the back tees and plays to a par of 70, but those numbers don’t fully capture the challenge.
With a slope rating of 149 and a course rating of 75.6, it’s built for precision, not just power.
Players need to think their way around this course—especially when water comes into play on 11 holes.
A Design That Demands Smart Shot-Making
Designed by Ron Prichard with consultation from major champions Hubert Green and Fuzzy Zoeller, the layout balances risk and reward with surgical precision.
It’s the kind of course where every hole asks a clear question—and punishes the wrong answer.
The terrain is subtly undulating, and while it may look manageable at first glance, nearly every hole is guarded in some form, either by water, bunkers, or tightly mown collection areas.
Key standouts include:
- Hole 11: A par-3 featuring a peninsula green that forces you to commit—there’s no safe miss.
- Hole 14: Another par-3, but this one stretches to 231 yards. Long iron or hybrid in hand, it’s one of the most intimidating tee shots in the region.
- Bunkers and Water Hazards: With 94 bunkers and 10 distinct water hazards, the course constantly keeps you thinking about your landing zones and angles into greens.
Premium Playing Surfaces
The course features Champion Bermuda greens, known for their fast, true rolls, especially during tournament season.
Zeon Zoysia covers the fairways—ideal for tight lies that reward crisp ball striking.
Both grass types are chosen not just for playability, but for how they hold up to Memphis’s humid summers.
Access and Experience
As a private club, TPC Southwind is reserved for members and their guests.
That exclusivity means pristine course conditions and a pace of play that’s hard to match on public tracks.
If you’re considering membership or know someone who is, it’s well worth exploring—not just for the golf, but also for the amenities and network that come with the TPC brand.
Who It’s Best For
This is a course designed with the experienced player in mind.
If you enjoy playing championship layouts, strategizing your way through demanding holes, and value elite course conditioning, TPC Southwind is unmatched in the Memphis area.
It’s also ideal for those looking to align their game with professional standards or entertain clients in a polished, high-level golf environment.
Memphis Country Club – Where Tradition and Shot-Making Meet
Memphis Country Club offers something distinctly different from the modern, high-powered layouts seen on tour—it’s a place where golf's golden age still quietly thrives.
Set in Midtown Memphis, this private club has been a part of the city’s history for over a century and continues to draw players who appreciate precision, strategy, and the timeless elegance of a Donald Ross design.
A Historic Course with Strategic Depth
Originally built in 1905, the course underwent a full redesign by Donald Ross in 1915, one of the most respected names in early American golf architecture.
Ross was known for designing courses that challenge your mind as much as your swing, and Memphis Country Club is a textbook example of that philosophy.
In recent years, architect Kris Spence led a meticulous restoration to recapture the course’s original character.
Bunkers were reshaped to Ross’s specs, green contours were restored, and fairways widened in key places—all with the intent of bringing back the thoughtful shot values that defined the early 20th-century game.
What this means for you: brute force won’t get you far here. At just 6,589 yards and playing to a par of 70, it may seem short on paper, but don’t be fooled.
Tight driving corridors, angled greens, and subtle elevation changes force you to think on every shot.
Placement matters far more than power, and recovery shots often hinge on creativity rather than sheer skill.
The Playing Experience
Greens are fast and firm, rewarding approach shots that come in from the right angles.
Fairways roll out nicely, but position off the tee is key if you want a clean look at the pin.
This kind of course rewards players who plan ahead and understand how to work the ball both ways.
In many ways, it’s the opposite of a modern resort-style layout. You won’t find overly dramatic hazards or forced carries designed to intimidate.
Instead, the challenge comes from subtle design choices that test your patience, decision-making, and consistency over 18 holes.
Private Access and Atmosphere
Like TPC Southwind, Memphis Country Club is private and requires membership.
The experience is refined but not flashy—more focused on tradition than luxury.
For those who appreciate the understated elegance of golf’s roots, it delivers exactly what you’d expect from one of the oldest clubs in the region.
Its Midtown location also makes it extremely convenient for locals, especially those living or working near central Memphis.
The surrounding neighborhood adds to the sense of heritage and makes a round here feel like a step back in time, in the best possible way.
Who It’s Best For
This course is best suited for players who enjoy classic architecture and value shot-making over distance.
If you like shaping shots, thinking your way around the course, and playing golf the way it was originally intended, Memphis Country Club belongs at the top of your list.
It’s also ideal for those looking to join a tight-knit, tradition-rich private club that has stood the test of time.
Mirimichi Golf Course – Eco-Conscious Championship Golf
Just 16 miles north of Memphis in Millington, Mirimichi Golf Course combines big-course ambition with environmental responsibility in a way that few public tracks can match.
It’s a place where championship-level play meets sustainable design, offering something rare: a tough, beautifully maintained course that’s open to everyone.
A Public Course with Championship Ambitions
Mirimichi plays to a par 72 and stretches a full 7,400 yards from the tips, making it one of the longest and most demanding courses in the Memphis area.
If you’re looking for a test of your full game—off the tee, into the greens, and on the putting surface—this course will deliver.
But what makes Mirimichi especially appealing is that it never feels like it’s punishing you just for the sake of difficulty.
The layout is fair, the sightlines are clear, and there’s always a safer route for players who choose strategy over aggression.
Originally designed by William F. Mitchell, the course was later redesigned by architect Bill Bergin with input and investment from Memphis native Justin Timberlake.
The redesign wasn’t just about adding length or updating bunkers—it was a complete transformation aimed at creating a course that could challenge skilled golfers while remaining accessible to a broad range of players.
The end result is a layout that demands smart decision-making, especially around water.
With six lakes, two creeks, and four waterfalls woven into the course’s routing, you’re rarely more than a shot or two away from needing precision over power.
Sustainability That Doesn’t Sacrifice Playability
What really sets Mirimichi apart is its commitment to sustainability.
It was the first course in the U.S. to earn Audubon Classic Sanctuary certification—a status that recognizes courses that go beyond basic environmental stewardship.
From a golfer’s perspective, this means:
- Native landscaping lines many of the holes, creating both visual interest and wildlife habitat
- The course uses rainwater collection and responsible irrigation methods to maintain healthy turf
- The aesthetic of the course feels natural and integrated into the landscape, rather than manufactured or forced
Despite these green initiatives, the playing surfaces are in excellent condition.
Fairways and greens are maintained to a high standard, and pace of play is generally smooth even on busy weekends.
Accessibility and Amenities
One of the biggest advantages Mirimichi offers is that it’s fully public.
You can book a tee time without a membership or connection, making it an ideal option for out-of-town visitors, weekend groups, or locals who want quality golf without the private club commitment.
Facilities include a full practice range, putting and chipping greens, and a clubhouse that provides food, beverages, and a relaxed place to unwind after your round.
The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, which makes the experience even more enjoyable whether you're there for a competitive round or a casual afternoon.
Who It’s Best For
Mirimichi is perfect for players who want a legitimate challenge without sacrificing scenic surroundings or thoughtful design.
It’s also ideal for those who value environmental responsibility and want to support courses that take sustainability seriously.
Whether you’re a single-digit handicapper or an improving mid-handicap player, you’ll find that Mirimichi gives you every chance to test and develop your game—without ever needing a membership to get on the tee.
The Links at Overton Park – Historic, Walkable, and Beginner-Friendly
Right in the heart of Midtown Memphis, The Links at Overton Park offers a relaxed and approachable golf experience in a location that couldn’t be more convenient.
Just minutes from downtown, this 9-hole course is a go-to for beginners, casual players, or anyone looking to squeeze in a quick round without sacrificing quality.
A Refreshed Classic in the City’s Core
Originally opened in 1906, The Links at Overton Park is one of the oldest municipal courses in the region.
But despite its age, it feels far from outdated.
Thanks to a $2 million renovation completed in 2021, the course now blends historic charm with updated amenities and modern playability.
The renovations were comprehensive but respectful of the course’s roots.
Greens and fairways were reconditioned to improve consistency and pace, while drainage improvements enhanced overall turf health and playability after rain.
The refurbished clubhouse now serves as a welcoming entry point, with improved facilities for players grabbing a snack or cooling off after a summer round.
An Easy Walk for All Skill Levels
Playing to a par 34 over just 2,250 yards, the layout is intentionally short and simple—an advantage for beginners and those getting back into the game.
It’s also one of the few courses in the Memphis area where walking is not just allowed, but encouraged.
With minimal elevation changes and close proximity between holes, it’s easily manageable without a cart, which adds to both the pace and enjoyment of play.
Even though it's a 9-hole track, the variety is enough to keep things interesting.
There are a few holes that require decent shot placement, especially if you’re trying to score.
But overall, the course is forgiving and unintimidating—exactly what you'd want if you're still learning or just looking for a casual outing.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the strongest draws of Overton Park is its affordability.
Rates are intentionally kept low to ensure access for a wide range of players, including families, students, and city residents.
Tee times are generally easy to come by, and there’s little of the pressure you might feel at more competitive or private facilities.
This also makes it a great option for practice.
Whether you're testing out new clubs, introducing a friend to the game, or trying to build confidence before moving up to an 18-hole course, Overton Park gives you the room and comfort to improve.
Who It’s Best For
The Links at Overton Park is ideal for beginners, casual players, or anyone who’s short on time but still wants to get a round in.
It’s also a perfect venue for families or small groups looking to enjoy a low-pressure, friendly golf environment.
And with its Midtown location, it’s easy to pair a morning round with brunch or a visit to the nearby Memphis Zoo or Brooks Museum—making it not just a golf outing, but a full day out.
Tips for Choosing the Right Course for You
With so many excellent golf options near Memphis, it helps to narrow your focus based on what you actually want out of your round.
Whether you’re an occasional player, a serious competitor, or just looking for a convenient outing, the right fit comes down to a few key factors.
Consider How Often You Play and Where Your Game Stands
If you're a beginner or only play a few times a year, you might enjoy the simplicity and pace of a shorter course like The Links at Overton Park.
It's approachable, walkable, and forgiving enough to keep things fun even if you're still figuring out your swing.
More experienced players, on the other hand, may gravitate toward courses that demand precise shot-making or offer tournament-level challenges, such as TPC Southwind or Mirimichi.
Your frequency of play also influences what kind of course makes the most sense.
If you're playing weekly and want to build consistency, a public course with solid practice facilities—like The Links at Audubon—can help support steady improvement without requiring a private club membership.
Match the Course Length to Your Available Time
Time is one of the biggest deciding factors for many golfers.
If you’ve only got an hour or two, a 9-hole option like Overton Park fits better than a full 18-hole layout.
Conversely, if you’re planning a full-day outing or want to play a more involved round, courses like Mirimichi or TPC Southwind offer the complete experience, with longer routing, more complex holes, and extended practice time.
Also consider whether you’ll be walking or riding—some layouts are better suited for a walking round than others.
For example, Overton Park is ideal for walkers, while the length and terrain at Mirimichi or TPC Southwind makes a cart the more practical option.
Think About Budget and Accessibility
Public vs. private is a big dividing line.
Private clubs like Memphis Country Club and TPC Southwind offer elite conditions, fewer crowds, and a more curated experience—but require a significant financial and time commitment.
If you're not ready to commit to membership, or you just want more flexibility, the public options around Memphis still offer excellent value and quality.
Courses like Mirimichi and The Links at Audubon deliver top-tier design and amenities while keeping access open.
That makes them especially attractive for golfers who want championship-level golf without long-term contracts or recurring dues.
Evaluate the Practice and Learning Facilities
If you're actively working on your game—or want a place to bring your kids or a new golfer—practice facilities matter.
The Links at Audubon is one of the best in the area when it comes to this, thanks to its 10-acre practice range and six-hole short course.
It's especially useful for refining specific parts of your game or fitting in some training time without playing a full round.
Not every course has extensive practice areas, so if you're looking to sharpen skills between rounds, it's worth checking what’s available before you book.
Overton Park, for instance, is more geared toward casual play than long practice sessions.
Final Thought
Choosing the right course ultimately comes down to aligning your time, skill level, and goals with what each course offers.
Whether you're chasing a competitive edge, looking for a fun weekend activity, or just need a peaceful place to hit a few balls, there’s a course near Memphis that fits the bill.
The better you understand what kind of golf experience you want, the easier it becomes to pick the right spot—and enjoy every round a little more.
