Nashville is home to several outstanding public golf courses that cater to both beginners and seasoned players.
The top five are Harpeth Hills, McCabe, Ted Rhodes, Gaylord Springs, and Hermitage Golf Course; keep reading for a detailed exploration of each.
Harpeth Hills Golf Course
Harpeth Hills Golf Course is a beloved public golf course in Nashville, known for its challenging layout and picturesque setting.
Situated in Percy Warner Park, this course offers a unique blend of natural beauty and well-maintained greens that attract both locals and visitors.
Overview
Harpeth Hills Golf Course was originally designed in 1965 and underwent a significant redesign in 1991 to enhance its features and overall playability.
The course is renowned for its TifEagle ultra-dwarf Bermuda greens, which provide an excellent putting surface.
Notable features of Harpeth Hills include its rolling terrain and strategic bunkering, making it a favorite among golfers seeking both a scenic and challenging experience.
Course Layout
The course layout of Harpeth Hills is an 18-hole, par-72 configuration, offering a diverse range of holes that cater to different skill levels.
Each hole is thoughtfully designed to incorporate the natural undulations of the terrain, providing a variety of lies and stances that test a golfer's precision and creativity.
Notable holes include the par-5 7th, which is a risk-reward hole with a narrow fairway flanked by trees, and the par-3 17th, known for its elevated tee and panoramic views.
Scenic Views
One of the standout features of Harpeth Hills Golf Course is its breathtaking scenic views.
The course is nestled within the rolling hills of Percy Warner Park, offering golfers stunning vistas at every turn.
The natural beauty of the park, with its mature trees and well-manicured landscapes, enhances the overall golfing experience.
Playing at Harpeth Hills allows golfers to enjoy a peaceful and serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Amenities and Services
Harpeth Hills Golf Course provides a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable golfing experience.
Golf carts are available for those who prefer not to walk the course, and club rentals are offered for players who do not have their own equipment.
Additionally, the course features a fitting service to help golfers optimize their gear for better performance.
These amenities cater to both casual golfers and those looking to improve their game.
Pricing and Accessibility
Harpeth Hills Golf Course is known for its affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of golfers.
The green fees are competitively priced, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy a round of golf without breaking the bank.
The course is located at 2424 Old Hickory Blvd in Nashville, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Directions to the course are straightforward, and ample parking is available on-site.
McCabe Golf Course
McCabe Golf Course is a well-regarded public golf facility in Nashville, offering a versatile and accessible golfing experience.
Known for its central location and variety of course options, McCabe caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Overview
McCabe Golf Course has a rich history, serving the Nashville community for many years.
The facility features three distinct 9-hole courses, allowing golfers to mix and match for a unique 18-hole experience each time they play.
This flexibility makes McCabe a popular choice for both regular players and those new to the game.
The course is noted for its welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained grounds.
Course Layout
The layout of McCabe Golf Course is one of its most appealing features.
The three 9-hole courses—South, Middle, and North—each offer different challenges and characteristics:
- South Course: Known for its relatively straightforward layout, it is ideal for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. It features wide fairways and fewer hazards, making it a forgiving course.
- Middle Course: This course provides a balanced mix of difficulty, with some tighter fairways and strategically placed bunkers. It is suitable for intermediate players looking to test their accuracy and strategy.
- North Course: The most challenging of the three, the North Course includes narrow fairways, water hazards, and elevated greens. It is designed to challenge experienced golfers and improve their game.
This variety ensures that golfers can enjoy a different experience each time they play, keeping the game interesting and engaging.
Central Location
One of McCabe Golf Course's key advantages is its central location at 100 46th Avenue North in Nashville.
This makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.
Being centrally located, it serves as a convenient option for a quick round of golf or a planned day out.
The location also means it is close to various amenities and attractions in Nashville, making it an excellent choice for those who want to combine golfing with other activities.
Amenities and Services
McCabe Golf Course offers a range of amenities to enhance the golfing experience.
Golfers can take advantage of cart rentals for a more comfortable round, and clubs are available for rent if needed.
The course also provides fitting services to ensure that players have the best equipment suited to their game.
For those looking to host events, McCabe offers facilities for private events, making it a versatile venue for gatherings and celebrations.
These amenities ensure that all golfer needs are met, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pricing and Accessibility
Affordability is a significant draw for McCabe Golf Course.
The green fees are competitive, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Whether you are a local resident or visiting Nashville, the reasonable pricing allows for frequent play without a significant financial burden.
Directions to the course are straightforward, and its central location ensures that it is easy to find.
Parking is ample, further adding to the convenience.
Ted Rhodes Golf Course

Ted Rhodes Golf Course offers a serene and challenging golfing experience near downtown Nashville, known for its links-style layout and scenic setting along the Cumberland River.
Overview
Ted Rhodes Golf Course, named after the famous African American golfer Ted Rhodes, has a rich history and is a significant part of Nashville's golfing landscape.
The course has been designed to honor its namesake's legacy while providing a top-notch golfing experience.
Over the years, it has become a favorite for both local golfers and visitors, appreciated for its well-maintained greens and welcoming atmosphere.
Course Layout
The 18-hole, par-72 course at Ted Rhodes is designed in a links-style layout, reminiscent of traditional Scottish golf courses.
This layout features wide fairways, large greens, and a strategic use of water hazards, creating a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Notable features include the numerous lakes that come into play on several holes, demanding accuracy and thoughtful shot placement.
The course’s design encourages players to think strategically about each shot, making for a stimulating round of golf.
Natural Setting
One of the standout aspects of Ted Rhodes Golf Course is its beautiful natural setting.
Located near the Cumberland River, the course offers stunning views and a tranquil environment.
The proximity to the river not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a variety of local wildlife to the area, providing a unique and serene backdrop for a round of golf.
The lush greenery and well-kept landscapes further add to the course’s charm, making it a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
Amenities and Services
Ted Rhodes Golf Course is well-equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Golf carts are available for those who prefer not to walk the course, and clubs can be rented on-site.
The course also offers fitting services to help golfers optimize their equipment for better performance.
Additional amenities include a clubhouse with a pro shop, where golfers can purchase equipment and apparel, and practice facilities, including a driving range and putting greens, to help players warm up or work on their skills.
These comprehensive services cater to all golfer needs, enhancing the overall experience.
Pricing and Accessibility
Ted Rhodes Golf Course is known for its affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of golfers.
The green fees are competitively priced, ensuring that golfers can enjoy a quality course without a significant financial commitment.
Located at 1901 Ed Temple Blvd in Nashville, the course is easily accessible from downtown and surrounding areas.
Clear signage and ample parking further contribute to the ease of access, making it a convenient choice for both regular play and spontaneous rounds.
Gaylord Springs Golf Links
Gaylord Springs Golf Links is a premier public golf course in Nashville, known for its challenging Scottish links-style layout and scenic beauty along the Cumberland River.
Overview
Designed by renowned golfer Larry Nelson, Gaylord Springs Golf Links has established itself as one of Nashville’s top golfing destinations.
The course opened in 1991 and has since gained a reputation for its meticulously maintained grounds and challenging design.
Its unique layout and strategic elements make it a favorite among both local and visiting golfers.
Course Layout
Gaylord Springs features an 18-hole, par-72 course designed in a traditional Scottish links style.
This layout includes rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens, demanding precision and strategy from golfers.
The course is set against a backdrop of limestone bluffs and wetlands, which not only add to its aesthetic appeal but also introduce natural obstacles that enhance the challenge.
Each hole presents a unique set of challenges, with water hazards coming into play on several holes, particularly those bordering the Cumberland River.
The signature hole, the par-4 12th, requires a precise drive and a well-placed approach to navigate the water and bunkers that protect the green.
Unique Golfing Experience
Playing at Gaylord Springs offers a unique and memorable golfing experience.
The challenging layout tests golfers' skills and strategic thinking, ensuring that no two rounds are the same.
The proximity to the Cumberland River adds a scenic element, with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.
The course's design incorporates natural elements seamlessly, creating a harmonious balance between playability and the surrounding environment.
Golfers can enjoy the beauty of the wetlands and the imposing presence of the limestone bluffs, making each round not just a game but an experience.
Amenities and Services
Gaylord Springs provides a range of amenities designed to enhance the golfing experience.
The full-service clubhouse offers a variety of services, including a pro shop stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel.
Practice facilities include a driving range, putting greens, and a short game area, allowing golfers to hone their skills before hitting the course.
The course also caters to event hosting, making it a popular venue for corporate outings, tournaments, and private events.
The clubhouse features dining options where golfers can relax and enjoy a meal or refreshments after their round, adding to the overall convenience and enjoyment of the facility.
Pricing and Accessibility
Despite its high-quality layout and amenities, Gaylord Springs Golf Links maintains reasonable green fees, making it accessible to a broad audience.
The course offers various pricing options, including weekday and weekend rates, as well as special packages for groups and events.
Located at 18 Springhouse Lane in Nashville, the course is easily accessible from major highways and is just a short drive from downtown.
Clear signage and ample parking make it convenient for both local golfers and visitors to find and enjoy.
Hermitage Golf Course
Hermitage Golf Course is a premier golfing destination in Nashville, renowned for its stunning scenery and challenging layouts.
This 36-hole facility offers a top-tier golfing experience that attracts players from all over.
Overview
Hermitage Golf Course boasts a rich history and has established itself as a prominent golf venue in the region.
The facility includes two distinct courses: General’s Retreat and President’s Reserve, each providing a unique and enjoyable golfing experience.
Over the years, Hermitage has maintained its reputation for excellent course conditions and superior service, making it a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
Course Layout
The layout at Hermitage Golf Course includes two well-designed courses:
- General’s Retreat: This course features a traditional layout with mature trees, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers. It is known for its challenging but fair design, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
- President’s Reserve: The premier course at Hermitage, President’s Reserve, spans 7,200 yards along the scenic banks of the Cumberland River. Designed by renowned golf course architect Denis Griffiths, this course is characterized by its rolling terrain, water hazards, and meticulously maintained greens. The layout demands strategic play, with numerous risk-reward opportunities that test both the mental and physical aspects of the game. Notable holes include the par-5 7th, which offers a challenging approach over water to a well-guarded green, and the par-4 18th, where precision is key to navigating the fairway bunkers and water hazards.
Scenic Views and Challenges
Hermitage Golf Course is celebrated for its natural beauty and the challenges it presents.
The President’s Reserve, in particular, offers breathtaking views of the Cumberland River and surrounding wetlands.
The course’s design incorporates the natural landscape, featuring numerous water hazards and well-placed bunkers that require careful navigation.
The lush fairways and immaculate greens enhance the visual appeal and playability, making each round a memorable experience.
Golfers will appreciate the serene environment and the opportunity to spot local wildlife as they progress through the course.
Amenities and Services
Hermitage Golf Course provides a comprehensive range of amenities to ensure a top-notch golfing experience.
Golf carts are available to enhance comfort and convenience during play.
Club rentals are also offered, catering to those who may not have their own equipment.
The course features fitting services to help golfers optimize their gear for improved performance.
For those looking to host events, Hermitage offers excellent event facilities, making it a popular choice for tournaments, corporate outings, and private gatherings.
The well-appointed clubhouse includes dining options where golfers can relax and enjoy meals or refreshments before or after their round.
Pricing and Accessibility
Hermitage Golf Course is known for its reasonable green fees, offering excellent value for the quality of the courses and services provided.
Various pricing options are available, including special rates for weekdays, weekends, and group bookings.
The course is located at 3939 Old Hickory Blvd in Old Hickory, TN, making it easily accessible from Nashville and the surrounding areas.
Directions to the course are straightforward, and ample parking is available on-site, adding to the convenience for all visitors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nashville's public golf courses offer diverse and high-quality options for golfers of all levels.
From the scenic views of Harpeth Hills and Ted Rhodes to the challenging layouts of Gaylord Springs and Hermitage, each course provides a unique experience.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, these top five courses ensure an enjoyable and memorable round of golf.