With wide-open spaces and beautiful mountains as far as the eye can see, it’s no question that the greater Kansas City area is ideal for golfing. But with so many unique public courses to choose from, how can you be sure to make the right pick? To help you out, we’ve outlined the top 10 public golf courses in Kansas City.
Creekmoor
This fairly simple, straightforward golf course is ideal for those trying to improve out of the tee box. The real fun begins around the greens, where they make challenging slopes that add a level of strategy into your game. Thankfully, the greens run slow to balance this effect. The beauty of the course stands out, making it a bargain for the price.
Fred Arbanas
One word comes to mind when playing Fred Arbanas – value. No, there isn’t any part of the course that makes your jaw drop but the experience is always organic and worth the price. It also doesn’t have that stuff environment that some other courses do, which is always refreshing.
Hillcrest
For a nice, stress-free and wide-open day out, Hillcrest just might be your go-to. But be careful, most holes are riddled with large bunkers, so don’t forget your sand wedge! All in all, you can enjoy a fun round without too many obstacles, with dogleg holes being the exception. The course also has a couple of dog parks, always fun to drop by after your round.
Hodge Park
Talk about an exciting 18 for a bargain! Hodge Park is a local favorite, with a nice balance of simple and complex holes that keep your interest. A few holes have water hazards, while some (especially the par 3s) are more reserved. A conservative game out of the tee box with consistent iron play can yield you a fairly low score.
Drumm Farm
While there are two golf courses on the property, we’d like to pay special attention to its design. Drumm Farm has a nice array of holes to keep you on your guard… you’re never really able to get comfortable with a single club, which is both frustrating and exciting at the same time. All in all, Drumm Farm is a great experience that presents a unique challenge just about any golfer can appreciate.
Swope Mountain
This par 72 has been around for almost 90 years and for good reason. Swope Mountain features a historic design around a beautifully unique setting. Sitting in downtown Kansas City, you can enjoy almost-premium golf without having to take a hike and for a nice price as well.
Minor Park
There’s a lot to experience at Minor Park. We loved the contemporary course that isn’t afraid to show its unique personality. You’ll have wide-open fairways that narrow to small greens with water behind it, dog-legs that can take you just about anywhere (fingers crossed) and so much more. When you consider the special deals they offer online, you’ll immediately realize the value of playing here.
Heart of America
Golf is already hard enough, so why go out of your way to make a course so challenging that it takes away the fun? Heart of America understood this and made a course for people to relax and have fun – not leave sweat tracks from the tee box and beyond! So if you’re looking for a chill experience with friends – this is your spot.
Iron Horse Golf Club
Arguably the most aesthetically pleasing golf course in the area, Iron Horse offers scenery that’s pretty tough to top. The designs of the holes, particularly on the back nine are kept up with true class. The course itself is fairly challenging, but nothing that makes you want to tear your hair out. This is one for the experience above all else.
Shoal Creek
When you want balance – you come to Shoal Creek. It features top-tier architecture and beautiful scenery. From wide-open par 5’s where you can flex your muscles to tricky par 3’s that can take you swimming – it’s all here. The 18-hole experience is probably the best Kansas City can offer all-around for a nice deal.