If you're looking to enjoy a round of golf near St. Louis, there are several excellent public courses offering everything from scenic views to challenging layouts.
Here are the top five courses you shouldn’t miss: Gateway National Golf Links, Forest Park Golf Course, Annbriar Golf Course, Tapawingo National Golf Club, and Gateway Hills Golf Course.
Keep reading for a closer look at what makes each course unique.
Gateway National Golf Links
Gateway National Golf Links offers a unique, links-style golfing experience just minutes from downtown St. Louis.
Known for its open layout, challenging water hazards, and stunning views of the St. Louis skyline, this course combines Midwest scenery with a taste of Scottish tradition, making it an exciting choice for both local and visiting golfers.
Location and Access
Located in Madison, Illinois, Gateway National Golf Links is a quick 10-minute drive from downtown St. Louis.
This close proximity makes it one of the most accessible courses in the area, ideal for golfers looking to squeeze in a round without a long commute.
Directions are straightforward, with ample parking available upon arrival.
Course Overview
The course’s open, links-style layout gives players the sense of playing a traditional Scottish course, with wide fairways, minimal tree cover, and tall native grasses.
Water hazards are present on several holes, adding both visual appeal and challenge to the round.
You’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the St. Louis skyline, enhancing the course's unique character.
The terrain features gentle undulations and strategically placed bunkers, creating a game that rewards careful planning over pure power.
Course Details and Highlights
Gateway National offers an impressive layout designed by Keith Foster, a respected course architect known for creating layouts that highlight natural landscapes.
With a par of 71 and measuring 7,178 yards from the back tees, this course requires thoughtful play and caters well to experienced golfers.
Each hole presents its own unique set of challenges, with an emphasis on strategy over distance, appealing to players who enjoy crafting each shot.
What to Expect
Golfers can expect high standards of course maintenance, from well-kept fairways to manicured greens, ensuring that playability remains consistent year-round.
The staff at Gateway National is known for their commitment to providing a welcoming experience, and the course itself is designed to test players without feeling overly punishing.
With changing wind conditions, especially on the more open fairways, each round here can feel different, keeping repeat visits engaging.
Who Will Enjoy It
This course is an excellent fit for golfers who seek a challenging and visually engaging experience.
Its European-inspired design will appeal to those who enjoy links-style play, while the well-maintained grounds and skyline views add to its appeal for any golfer looking for a memorable round.
While more seasoned players may get the most out of the course’s challenges, intermediate golfers will also find it enjoyable and rewarding.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
For the best experience, try to schedule your tee time to take advantage of the skyline views—late afternoon rounds can provide especially stunning lighting.
Be prepared for the water hazards, as they come into play on several holes; bringing extra balls can be helpful.
Forest Park Golf Course
Forest Park Golf Course, located in the heart of historic Forest Park in St. Louis, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its accessibility, affordability, and charming urban setting.
Offering a variety of layouts and levels of difficulty, this course is perfect for golfers of all skill levels looking to enjoy a scenic round without leaving the city.
Location and Access
Situated within St. Louis's iconic Forest Park, this golf course is easily reachable for city residents and visitors alike.
The park itself is a central attraction, making it a convenient spot for golfers who want to pair their game with a visit to other nearby cultural and recreational activities.
Parking is available within the park, and public transit options are accessible for those traveling without a vehicle.
Course Overview
The Forest Park Golf Course is uniquely set up with 27 holes divided into three nine-hole courses, offering a mix-and-match opportunity for players to create their own 18-hole round.
Each nine-hole layout varies slightly in difficulty, which makes it easy for beginners, intermediates, and even seasoned golfers to find a course that suits their level.
Surrounded by mature trees, water features, and the energy of Forest Park, this course delivers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban views that enhance the golfing experience.
Course Details and Highlights
Each of the three nine-hole courses has its own character, with par ranging from 35 to 36 per nine.
The design allows golfers to choose a comfortable mix of nines to form a full 18-hole round if desired, keeping each visit refreshing and customizable.
The course layout provides engaging challenges through strategically placed bunkers and water features, all while remaining approachable for newer players.
What to Expect
Expect a well-maintained, affordable golf experience that attracts a wide range of players, from families and new golfers to more experienced players looking for a relaxed round.
The course is well-loved in the community, making it a lively spot, particularly on weekends.
With a family-friendly atmosphere and its reputation for affordability, Forest Park is an excellent option for golfers who enjoy frequent rounds without breaking the bank.
Who Will Enjoy It
Forest Park Golf Course is ideal for golfers of all skill levels.
Beginners will appreciate the forgiving fairways and variety of courses, while intermediate players will find enough strategic challenges to keep the game interesting.
Families and casual golfers will especially enjoy the welcoming environment, and even advanced players can appreciate the unique charm and flexibility of this urban course.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
To avoid peak times, early morning or late afternoon tee times are usually best, as weekends and midday slots can get busy.
Since Forest Park itself has much to offer, consider setting aside extra time to explore the park's nearby attractions, like the St. Louis Art Museum or the Saint Louis Zoo, to make the most of your visit.
Annbriar Golf Course
Annbriar Golf Course, nestled in the rural landscapes of Waterloo, Illinois, provides golfers with a serene escape just 30 minutes outside of St. Louis.
Known for its rolling hills, elevation changes, and stunning views, this course combines challenging play with scenic beauty, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Location and Access
Located in the quiet town of Waterloo, IL, Annbriar Golf Course is an easy 30-minute drive from downtown St. Louis, providing a quick getaway from the city’s bustle.
The drive itself offers a taste of the Illinois countryside, setting the stage for a peaceful round of golf.
The course provides ample parking, and its rural setting allows visitors to enjoy a relaxed pace and fresh air away from the urban environment.
Course Overview
Annbriar’s layout is set against a picturesque backdrop of gently rolling hills, lush fairways, and strategic elevation changes.
This course design not only adds to the game’s technical challenges but also makes every hole visually distinct, providing golfers with a memorable experience on each round.
The peaceful, scenic surroundings make it an appealing choice for players who want to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Midwest.
Locals appreciate the layout’s balance of difficulty and aesthetics, drawing golfers back for both its playability and rural charm.
Course Details and Highlights
Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Annbriar Golf Course spans 6,941 yards with a par of 72, delivering a layout that is both challenging and fair.
The course rewards strategic shot placement, especially on holes with elevation changes where club selection and distance control are key.
Each hole offers its own scenic views, enhancing the experience for players who appreciate a beautiful setting.
The fairways and greens are well-maintained, adding to the course’s reputation for quality.
What to Expect
Golfers can expect a layout that offers a satisfying blend of technical challenges and scenic relaxation.
The fairways and greens are kept in excellent condition, providing a smooth playing experience.
Annbriar’s peaceful, rural atmosphere is ideal for players who want a slower-paced round where they can enjoy both the game and the views.
The course is known for its welcoming staff and accommodating service, adding to the overall positive experience.
Who Will Enjoy It
Annbriar Golf Course is well-suited for golfers who enjoy moderate to challenging play in a scenic, rural setting.
The layout’s combination of aesthetic appeal and technical demands makes it especially attractive to intermediate and experienced golfers.
However, beginners with some course experience can also enjoy it, as the challenges are rewarding without being overly daunting.
The course’s tranquil setting is ideal for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a visually stunning round.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
For first-timers, it’s worth exploring the nearby town of Waterloo, which has small-town charm and local dining options that can round out a day trip.
On the course, keep an eye out for especially scenic spots—several holes offer sweeping views that are perfect for photos.
Due to the elevation changes, choosing the right club is key, so it’s helpful to take some time to assess distances and angles before each shot to get the most out of your game.
Tapawingo National Golf Club
Tapawingo National Golf Club in Sunset Hills, Missouri, provides a unique and varied golfing experience with three distinct nine-hole courses designed by the legendary Gary Player.
Located just a short drive southwest of downtown St. Louis, this course combines diverse terrain with scenic views, making it a top choice for golfers looking for both challenge and variety.
Location and Access
Situated in the quiet suburb of Sunset Hills, Tapawingo National Golf Club is easily accessible from St. Louis, allowing golfers to enjoy a countryside escape without a long commute.
The course offers ample parking and is well-signed for easy navigation, making it convenient for local players and visitors alike.
Course Overview
Tapawingo National’s 27-hole layout is divided into three distinct nine-hole courses: Meramec, Woodlands, and Prairie.
Each nine is unique, with terrain ranging from open prairie stretches to tree-lined fairways and water features, allowing players to experience a different environment on each round.
This design by Gary Player emphasizes strategic play, with hazards like lakes, creeks, and wooded areas that challenge players to consider their shots carefully.
Whether playing a combination of two nines or all three, golfers can customize their experience for each visit.
Course Details and Highlights
Each of the three nine-hole layouts—Meramec, Woodlands, and Prairie—offers its own character and level of challenge:
- Meramec: Known for its balance of open fairways and water features, providing a mix of forgiving and challenging holes.
- Woodlands: As the name suggests, Woodlands weaves through dense tree areas, emphasizing accuracy and strategy, particularly on tighter fairways.
- Prairie: This layout has a more open feel, with fewer trees but plenty of bunkers and rolling hills that require thoughtful shot planning.
Each nine has its own par designation, adding variety and a strategic element to each round.
The course design encourages players to adjust their strategies depending on which nines they play, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.
What to Expect
Golfers at Tapawingo National can expect a well-maintained course with a mix of challenging and forgiving holes that suit a wide range of playing styles.
The varied terrain keeps rounds interesting, as each hole presents a different obstacle, from water hazards to tight wooded areas.
The club’s amenities, including a pro shop and practice facilities, contribute to a comfortable golfing experience.
Tapawingo’s reputation for quality course conditions and strategic layouts attracts players who enjoy refining their skills and making calculated plays.
Who Will Enjoy It
Tapawingo National Golf Club is particularly suited for intermediate to advanced golfers who appreciate a layout that rewards strategic play.
The diverse terrain and design make it appealing for players looking for an engaging challenge rather than a straightforward course.
While beginners can also enjoy the more forgiving holes, the variety of landscapes is especially rewarding for those with a bit of experience.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
For a full experience, first-timers are encouraged to explore each of the three nines, as each one offers unique features and challenges.
Early tee times are often less crowded, allowing for a more leisurely round.
Given the layout’s range of terrains, bringing a variety of clubs can be useful, and it’s a good idea to check the scorecard for hazards on each hole to better plan your shots.
Gateway Hills Golf Course
Gateway Hills Golf Course, located on Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for golfers of all skill levels.
Open to the public, this course provides an accessible and affordable option for those seeking an enjoyable round without the intensity of more challenging courses.
Location and Access
Situated on Scott Air Force Base, Gateway Hills is a convenient choice for those in the St. Louis metro area, especially since it’s open to the general public despite its military location.
Visitors should be aware that entry to the base may require a valid ID check, so it’s wise to have identification on hand.
Clear signage directs visitors to the course, and ample parking is available for easy access.
Course Overview
Gateway Hills Golf Course is known for its straightforward, friendly layout, catering particularly well to beginners and casual golfers.
The atmosphere is relaxed, making it an ideal course for those just starting out or anyone looking to enjoy an easygoing round.
With its approachable design and affordable rates, Gateway Hills stands out as an inviting choice in the area for those who prioritize enjoyment over competitive play.
Course Details and Highlights
This 18-hole course features a layout that is well-suited to beginner and intermediate golfers, with enough variety to keep the game engaging without overwhelming less experienced players.
The fairways are open, and while the course includes occasional bunkers and light water hazards, it’s designed to be forgiving.
Players can expect consistent maintenance, with smooth greens and fairways that make for an uncomplicated and enjoyable round.
What to Expect
Gateway Hills provides a laid-back setting where golfers can focus on their game without the pressures of a more intense course.
The grounds are well-kept, contributing to a comfortable experience, and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful.
This course is ideal for those who appreciate a round without significant difficulty or complex obstacles, allowing them to relax and play at their own pace.
Who Will Enjoy It
Gateway Hills is particularly well-suited for beginners, casual golfers, and anyone seeking an affordable, budget-friendly round.
Its forgiving design makes it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their game in a low-stress environment, as well as for players who appreciate a straightforward course that doesn’t require extensive technical skill.
More advanced players may find it to be a good practice round or a break from more demanding courses.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors should ensure they have valid ID ready for base access, as the course’s location on military grounds requires security checks.
Familiarizing yourself with the layout ahead of time can be helpful, though the course’s straightforward design makes navigation easy.
For a smooth experience, weekday tee times tend to be less crowded, allowing for an uninterrupted, relaxed round.
Conclusion
These top public golf courses near St. Louis offer something for every type of golfer, from scenic, challenging rounds to relaxed, budget-friendly play.
Whether you’re seeking skyline views, a taste of Scottish links, or a laid-back game, each course brings its own unique appeal.
Try one—or all—of these spots to experience the best golfing in the St. Louis area.
