Indiana offers some incredible public golf courses, each with its unique charm and challenges.
To find out which courses stand out as the best in the state, check out our top five picks below and keep reading for a more detailed explanation.
Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame
Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, Warren Golf Course is a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting the state.
This course offers a blend of challenging holes and stunning scenery, making it a top destination for golfers of all skill levels.
Overview of the Course
The Warren Golf Course is situated on the campus of the University of Notre Dame, providing a unique setting that blends academic prestige with sporting excellence.
Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the course opened in 1999 and has since become a central feature of the university’s athletic offerings.
With a traditional, parkland-style layout, it is highly regarded for its classic design that combines both strategic and aesthetic elements, catering to golfers looking for a rewarding and visually appealing experience.
Unique Features
Warren Golf Course is known for its classic design that includes a variety of strategic holes.
Each hole on the course presents its own set of challenges, from well-placed bunkers and water hazards to subtle elevation changes that require careful shot selection.
The course is also renowned for its scenic views, with lush greenery and mature trees lining the fairways, creating a serene and picturesque environment for golfers.
Additionally, the course is laid out in such a way that it preserves much of the natural landscape, providing an experience that feels both timeless and integrated with the surroundings.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of Warren Golf Course is designed to challenge golfers without overwhelming them.
It features a mix of par 3s, par 4s, and par 5s that are thoughtfully designed to test different aspects of a golfer’s game.
For instance, the par-4 14th hole is notable for its demanding tee shot and well-protected green, requiring accuracy and precision.
Meanwhile, the par-5 18th hole is a favorite among many players, featuring a double dogleg that rewards strategic planning and careful execution.
The course's routing takes full advantage of the natural topography, incorporating gentle hills and valleys that add an extra layer of challenge and beauty.
The greens are known for their speed and undulation, demanding a good touch and careful reading of the breaks.
Overall, the course is designed to be accessible to golfers of all skill levels while still providing enough complexity to challenge more experienced players.
Events and Tournaments
Warren Golf Course has a rich history of hosting collegiate tournaments, thanks to its association with the University of Notre Dame.
It has been the site of numerous NCAA events, including the NCAA Men’s Regional Championships.
The course’s challenging layout and professional-grade conditions make it a favorite for these high-level competitions.
Additionally, Warren Golf Course hosts a variety of public tournaments and events throughout the year, offering golfers of all skill levels the opportunity to test their mettle on a course that has been played by some of the best collegiate golfers in the country.
Visitor Information
For those interested in playing Warren Golf Course, booking a tee time is straightforward and can be done through the course’s official website or by calling the pro shop directly.
The course offers a range of amenities, including a well-stocked pro shop, practice facilities such as a driving range and putting greens, and on-site dining options for a post-round meal.
First-time visitors are encouraged to plan their visit during the spring or fall when the weather is typically mild, and the course is in peak condition.
It’s also advisable to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and historic campus backdrop.
Golfers should come prepared with the necessary equipment, but rental clubs are available for those who need them.
French Lick Resort (Pete Dye Course)
French Lick Resort, located in French Lick, Indiana, is home to one of the state’s most celebrated golf courses—the Pete Dye Course.
Known for its rugged terrain and stunning panoramic views, this course provides a challenging and memorable golfing experience.
Overview of the Course
Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, French Lick Resort is a historic destination that has been attracting visitors for over a century.
The Pete Dye Course, designed by the legendary Pete Dye, opened in 2009 and quickly established itself as one of the premier golf courses in the Midwest.
The course is part of the larger French Lick Resort, which includes luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a full-service spa, making it a complete destination for both golfers and non-golfers alike.
Unique Features
The Pete Dye Course is characterized by its rugged terrain and significant elevation changes, which create a dynamic and challenging playing experience.
The course is built on a hilltop, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape that are both breathtaking and distracting for players focused on their game.
The fairways are lined with native grasses and wildflowers, giving the course a natural, unmanicured look that is a signature of Dye’s design philosophy.
One of the standout features of the Pete Dye Course is its collection of par 3 holes, each of which presents a unique challenge in terms of distance, wind, and elevation.
The course also features numerous strategically placed bunkers and water hazards, requiring golfers to carefully consider each shot and plan their strategy accordingly.
Course Layout and Design
The Pete Dye Course is designed to test every aspect of a golfer’s game, with a layout that rewards accuracy and strategic thinking.
The course is known for its narrow fairways, undulating greens, and deep bunkers that demand precision and careful shot placement.
The design includes a variety of holes that range in length and difficulty, ensuring that players face a diverse set of challenges throughout their round.
Notable holes include the par-4 6th, which features a dramatic downhill tee shot to a narrow fairway bordered by bunkers and a water hazard, and the par-3 16th, which requires a precise iron shot over a ravine to a small, well-protected green.
These holes exemplify Dye’s design philosophy, which emphasizes risk and reward and forces players to think strategically about every shot.
Awards and Recognitions
Since its opening, the Pete Dye Course has received numerous accolades and awards, cementing its reputation as one of the best public golf courses in the United States.
It has been ranked among the top 100 public courses by various golf publications and has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the Senior PGA Championship.
These accolades are a testament to the quality of the course and the challenging, yet enjoyable, experience it offers to golfers of all skill levels.
Visitor Information
Booking a tee time at the Pete Dye Course is easy, with options available through the French Lick Resort’s website or by contacting the resort directly.
The resort offers a variety of stay-and-play packages that combine accommodations with golf, providing great value for those looking to experience everything the resort has to offer.
In addition to golf, French Lick Resort features a range of amenities, including luxurious lodging, multiple dining options, a casino, and a world-class spa.
These amenities make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
When preparing to play the Pete Dye Course, it is recommended to bring comfortable golf shoes, a rangefinder or GPS device to navigate the course’s elevation changes, and plenty of golf balls, as the course’s challenging layout can be unforgiving.
The Pfau Course at Indiana University
Located in Bloomington, Indiana, The Pfau Course at Indiana University is a relatively new addition to the state’s golf landscape, offering a modern design that appeals to golfers of all abilities.
This course is known for its high-quality maintenance and scenic beauty, making it a standout destination for those looking to experience a contemporary golfing challenge.
Overview of the Course
The Pfau Course, named after IU alumni Ned and Sue Pfau, opened in 2020 and quickly gained a reputation as one of Indiana’s premier public golf courses.
Situated on the campus of Indiana University, the course was designed by architect Steve Smyers and consultant Fuzzy Zoeller, a former Masters and U.S. Open champion.
The course replaces the old IU Golf Course and offers a fresh, modern take on golf course design while maintaining a strong connection to the university’s athletic tradition.
Unique Features
The Pfau Course is celebrated for its modern design and commitment to high-quality maintenance, ensuring that the course remains in excellent condition year-round.
The course layout is diverse, featuring a mix of wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging green complexes that test all aspects of a golfer’s game.
The scenic beauty of the course is enhanced by its location within the rolling hills of southern Indiana, with several holes offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A unique aspect of The Pfau Course is its emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The course was designed with a focus on preserving natural habitats and minimizing its environmental impact, incorporating native grasses and plants to support local wildlife and reduce water usage.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of The Pfau Course is designed to provide a challenging yet fair test for golfers of all skill levels.
The course features a variety of hole designs, including long par 4s that demand accurate driving and short par 3s that require precise iron play.
The greens are large and undulating, offering multiple pin positions that can significantly alter the difficulty of each hole.
Notable features of the course include its innovative green complexes, which are designed to reward creative shot-making and strategic thinking.
The course also incorporates several unique hazards, such as grass bunkers and water features, that add to its challenge and visual appeal.
Overall, The Pfau Course is a modern golf course that combines strategic design elements with a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Sustainability and Maintenance
The Pfau Course is dedicated to maintaining high standards of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The course uses state-of-the-art maintenance practices to ensure that it remains in top condition while minimizing its impact on the environment.
This includes using organic fertilizers and pest control methods, conserving water through efficient irrigation systems, and maintaining natural habitats for local wildlife.
These practices not only help to preserve the natural beauty of the course but also create a more enjoyable and sustainable golfing experience for players.
The commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the course, from the choice of grasses and plants to the design of the bunkers and water features.
Visitor Information
Scheduling a tee time at The Pfau Course is straightforward, with reservations available through the course’s website or by calling the pro shop directly.
The course offers special rates for students and alumni of Indiana University, making it an affordable option for members of the IU community.
Amenities at The Pfau Course include a well-equipped pro shop, practice areas with a driving range and putting greens, and on-site dining options.
Golfers are encouraged to arrive early to take advantage of the practice facilities and warm up before their round.
To get the most out of their visit, players should familiarize themselves with the course layout and take note of the unique challenges posed by the various holes.
Prairie View Golf Club
Prairie View Golf Club, located in Carmel, Indiana, is a top choice for golfers looking for a challenging and well-maintained course.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course offers a blend of strategic water hazards and pristine fairways, making it a favorite among players of all skill levels.
Overview of the Course
Situated just north of Indianapolis, Prairie View Golf Club is one of Indiana’s premier public golf courses.
The course was designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in 1997.
It has since established itself as a must-play destination for golfers in the Midwest.
Known for its well-manicured fairways and challenging layout, Prairie View offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic design that appeals to golfers of all abilities.
Unique Features
Prairie View Golf Club is distinguished by its meticulously maintained fairways and challenging water hazards.
The course is laid out along the banks of the White River, incorporating natural elements such as wetlands, ponds, and wooded areas to create a visually stunning and strategically demanding golfing experience.
The fairways are generous but require careful shot placement to avoid the numerous water hazards that come into play on many holes.
The course is designed to be accessible to golfers of all skill levels, with multiple tee boxes that allow players to choose a level of difficulty that matches their abilities.
Despite its challenges, Prairie View is known for its playability and fairness, providing an enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced golfers.
Course Layout and Design
Prairie View Golf Club features a classic parkland-style layout with a mix of long par 4s, reachable par 5s, and challenging par 3s.
The course is known for its strategic use of water hazards, which come into play on over half of the holes and require careful navigation.
Bunkers are strategically placed throughout the course, adding an extra layer of challenge and requiring precise shot-making.
Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s design philosophy is evident throughout the course, emphasizing playability and strategic thinking.
The greens are large and well-contoured, offering a variety of pin positions that can change the character of each hole.
Overall, the course layout is designed to test every aspect of a golfer’s game, from driving accuracy to short-game precision.
Player Experience
Golfers who have played at Prairie View often praise the course for its challenging yet fair layout and the quality of its maintenance.
The course is known for its fast, true greens and well-manicured fairways, which provide a consistent and enjoyable playing surface.
Many players also appreciate the natural beauty of the course, with its scenic views of the White River and the surrounding wetlands and woodlands.
To make the most of a round at Prairie View, it is recommended that golfers pay close attention to the course’s water hazards and bunkers, which can quickly turn a good score into a frustrating one.
Players should also take advantage of the multiple tee boxes to choose a level of difficulty that matches their abilities and ensures an enjoyable experience.
Visitor Information
Booking a tee time at Prairie View Golf Club is simple, with reservations available online through the course’s website or by calling the pro shop directly.
The course offers a range of amenities, including equipment rental, golf instruction, and a well-stocked pro shop with a variety of apparel and accessories.
Golfers are encouraged to arrive early to take advantage of the practice facilities, which include a driving range, putting green, and short-game area.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable round, it is also advisable to familiarize yourself with the course layout and review the scorecard before teeing off.
Sultan's Run Golf Club
Sultan's Run Golf Club, located in Jasper, Indiana, is a hidden gem in the state’s golfing landscape.
Known for its rolling hills and pristine conditions, this course offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers looking to test their skills in a beautiful natural setting.
Overview of the Course
Sultan’s Run Golf Club is situated in the heart of southern Indiana, surrounded by the rolling hills and lush forests that define the region’s landscape.
The course was designed by architect Tim Liddy and opened in 1992. It has since become one of Indiana’s top public golf courses, known for its stunning scenery and challenging layout.
The course takes full advantage of the natural terrain, incorporating dramatic elevation changes and scenic vistas that create a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience.
Unique Features
One of the defining features of Sultan’s Run Golf Club is its rolling hills and dynamic elevation changes, which provide both a visual and strategic challenge for golfers.
The course is meticulously maintained, with pristine fairways and greens that are known for their speed and consistency.
The natural beauty of the course is further enhanced by its mature trees, native grasses, and well-placed water features, which add to the challenge and appeal of the layout.
Sultan’s Run is also known for its commitment to providing a high-quality golfing experience.
The course is designed to be challenging yet fair, with multiple tee boxes that allow players to choose a level of difficulty that matches their abilities.
The layout is varied and interesting, with a mix of long and short holes, doglegs, and straightaways that require a range of shots and strategies.
Course Layout and Design
The layout of Sultan’s Run Golf Club is designed to take full advantage of the natural terrain, with holes that wind through the rolling hills and valleys of southern Indiana.
The course features a variety of hole designs, from long par 5s that require powerful drives and precise approach shots to short par 3s that demand accuracy and finesse.
Notable holes include the par-4 10th, which features a dramatic downhill tee shot to a narrow fairway bordered by trees and water, and the par-3 18th, which requires a precise iron shot over a pond to a well-protected green.
These holes, along with the rest of the course, are designed to test every aspect of a golfer’s game, from driving accuracy to short-game precision.
Accolades and Recognition
Sultan’s Run Golf Club has received numerous accolades and awards, recognizing its status as one of Indiana’s top public golf courses.
The course has been ranked among the best in the state by various golf publications and has hosted several prestigious events and tournaments.
These accolades are a testament to the quality of the course and the challenging, yet enjoyable, experience it offers to golfers of all skill levels.
Visitor Information
Booking a tee time at Sultan’s Run Golf Club is easy, with reservations available online through the course’s website or by calling the pro shop directly.
The course offers a range of facilities, including a clubhouse with dining options, a pro shop with a variety of golf equipment and apparel, and practice areas for warming up before your round.
Golfers are encouraged to arrive early to take advantage of the practice facilities and to familiarize themselves with the course layout before teeing off.
To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to bring comfortable golf shoes and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments on the course.
Conclusion
Indiana's public golf courses offer a range of experiences, from the scenic beauty of Sultan's Run to the strategic challenges of Warren Golf Course.
Whether you're seeking a classic design or a modern layout, these top five courses provide something for every golfer.
Plan your visit to experience the best of Indiana golf firsthand.
