Favorite Golf Courses in the State of Texas
May 19th 2017
Is there anything better than a golfing vacation? Warm weather, green links, and some cold beverages are the perfect combination for a relaxing getaway. While some of the best-known golf destinations are in Florida or California, you can still find great courses in some destinations off the beaten path. One of the best up and coming destinations is the great state of Texas. We’ve highlighted some of the favorite hidden gems that won’t stay hidden for long!
1.Dallas National Golf Club
If you ever get the chance to play this course, go! This super exclusive club is just six miles outside of downtown Dallas but features incredible elevation changes and a par 72 course of over 7,200 yards. The course was designed by the legendary Tom Fazio, and every hole is a signature hole. It is easily one of the most high-profile courses in the state of Texas and should be on every serious golfer’s bucket list.
2.Whispering Pines
Don’t let the remote location deter you—this club is a paradise for a golf enthusiast! Whispering Pines combines historical golf traditions with challenging play in a beautiful setting about 90 miles outside of Houston. The natural water features and rolling terrain were perfectly incorporated by Chet Williams of Nicklaus Designs into a course with challenging hazards and creative play that will entertain even the most experienced player. The par 72 course is consistently ranked one of the top courses in Texas and is always in the conversation about top courses in the country.
3.Colonial Country Club
One of the oldest courses in Texas, Colonial hosted the U.S. Open just five years after opening in 1941 and has hosted a PGA Tour event annually since 1946. It is located just outside of Fort Worth near Texas Christian University and, while the terrain may not be ideal, the course designers excel at making it an interesting and challenging par 70. It is nicknamed “Hogan’s Alley” in honor of Fort Worth native Ben Hogan, a golf icon who won the course’s annual PGA Tournament five times.
4.Preston Trail
We return to Dallas with another exclusive club that every avid golfer should play. Preston Trail has everything you could ask for—challenging play, an interesting and beautiful layout, and a welcoming clubhouse with plenty of celebrity memorabilia.
Don’t miss the shrine to long-time member Mickey Mantle! In 2009, the course carried out an extensive renovation that restored many of the original course elements while integrating challenges for the modern player. If you are lucky enough to score an invite, this promises to be one of the most entertaining golf experiences of your life!
5.Spanish Oaks
This course mimics the spirit of its home, Austin, Texas—everyone is welcome. Players of all skill levels will find the course enjoyable and challenging. It may also be one of the most beautiful courses to play, with the rolling hills and an impressive display of native flowers in the spring. The course was originally designed by Bobby Weed and was renovated in 2016 by his company, Bobby Weed Golf Design. This renovation improved the course consistency to attract a more loyal following and has gained the notice of every avid golfer in the area.
6.The Club at Carlton Woods
Located in The Woodlands, Texas, this illustrious club packs an incredible two-course punch! If you can score an invite, make sure you have plenty of time to enjoy both the Fazio Course and the Nicklaus Course at Carlton Woods.
The Nicklaus Course, designed by the renowned golfer, Jack Nicklaus, was the first to open in 2001. It is a true parkland course that winds through mature trees and natural water features.
The Fazio Course was designed by well-known architect Tom Fazio and opened in 2005. It features an amazing variety of hole lengths and shapes and has more hilly terrain. Many golfers prefer the Fazio Course, but you’ll have to play both to decide for yourself.
7.Boot Ranch Golf Course
If you love all things Texas, this course should be the next on your list. New members are presented with a pair of boots to be worn in the massive clubhouse as a rite of passage. This Fredericksburg course opened in 2006 and quickly gained accolades as one of the top courses in the state. The scenery is incredible but what golfers really rave about is the pure fun of playing this course.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you decide to vacation in Texas, you are probably near an outstanding golf course. Though you will probably need some excellent connections to score a tee time at most of these private gems, each course is absolutely a bucket list round of 18 holes. Pull all the strings you can to make it onto these amazing links on your next trip.