There’s a reason why the big golf events, from the Ryder Cup to the U.S. Open, keep coming back to Wisconsin: for the golf experience of a lifetime. And just like the pros, Wisconsin welcomes you to come enjoy it.
With 10 golf courses ranking among the nation’s top 100 public courses by Golf Digest (more than any other state), Wisconsin is home to an unprecedented concentration of unforgettable golf.
Check out this original article in the Wisconsin Travel Guide for more golf travel inspiration!
Each of Wisconsin’s top courses have a distinct personality. Designed by some of the greats, fueled passion and continuing the game’s rich history — these courses belong on every golfer’s bucket list.
1. The Straits Course at Whistling Straits – Kohler
Sculpted by renowned golf architect Pete Dye along Lake Michigan’s ocean-like shore, the beauty of this rugged, windswept course is nothing short of staggering. Playing here is like golfing with the pros — the course has hosted multiple championships and Steve Stricker’s US Team win at the Ryder Cup in 2021.
2. Erin Hills – Hartford
Wisconsin’s last great glacier carved the stunning features — winding rivers and rolling prairies — found at Erin Hills. After hosting the 2017 U.S Open, this course remains a favorite of both pros and amateurs. This natural beauty with the towers of Holy Hill Basilica in the distance is found in the heart of Wisconsin.
3. The River Course at Blackwolf Run - Kohler
The flowing Sheboygan River lines the greens of this course at Blackwolf Run. It’s been said that this course features some of Pete Dye’s most exciting hole designs. Large, sweeping greens and the serene water set this course apart.
4. The Sand Valley Course at Sand Valley Resort – Nekoosa
At first glance, you’ll be stunned by the exposed sand dunes. Then you’ll fall for the fun playability of this course. Designed to provide a variety of strategic options, Sand Valley was named best new course by Golf Digest in 2017.
5. The Mammoth Dunes Course at Sand Valley Resort - Nekoosa
The hillsides of exposed sand weaving through the course gave it its name — and its unique character. Enjoy Mammoth Dunes’ enormous fairways in a landscape you can’t find anywhere else.
6. The Irish Course at Whistling Straits - Kohler
The second course crafted at Whistling Straits, the Irish brings you inland to grassland glory dotted with dunes and wandering streams. While peaceful, this course boasts a unique set of thrilling challenges.
7. SentryWorld – Stevens Point
SentryWorld, Wisconsin’s first destination golf course, is both approachable and challenging and its 16th hole, knows as the Flower Hole, makes a round here unforgettable. Over 30,000 flowers line the green making it a favorite among golfers around the world.
8. The Links Course at Lawsonia – Green Lake
Staying true to the classic links style of centuries-old golf, this course’s traditional firm and fast greens set it apart from most modern courses.
9. The Meadow Valleys Course at Blackwolf Run – Kohler
Meadow Valleys capitalizes on its rolling meadows and natural ravines to add both beauty and unexpected challenges to your round of golf.
10. The Bull at Pinehurst Farms – Sheboygan Falls
The only Jack Nicklaus signature golf course in Wisconsin, The Bull provides an exciting game along the Onion River.
For more top-quality courses in Wisconsin, check out these 9 scenic golf courses.
