313 Most Popular Public Golf Courses in Iowa
Iowa’s golf courses echo the state’s signature Midwestern vibe, blending thoughtful design with views that reflect the pastoral beauty of the country. From the vibrant Des Moines, the collegiate energy of Iowa City, to the historic landmarks of Dubuque and the riverfront beauty of Davenport, the Hawkeye State’s golf havens beckon with warmth and challenge. Every putt I’ve made on Iowa’s links evokes distinct scenes: expansive skies stretching over vast soybean fields or the Mississippi’s gentle current adding a nice background. I have fond memories of navigating a course with the University of Iowa’s landmarks, and of another game played to the buzzing of cicadas on a hot summer evening. In this article, I’ll share these personal golfing tales, spotlighting the finest public courses Iowa has generously unfolded before me. Whether you’re seeking the embrace of a woodland course or the vastness of the prairie, my selections portray the essence of golfing in Iowa. Join me in this Hawkeye golfing journey, where the open skies meet pristine fairways.
Irv Warren Memorial Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Waterloo
Irv Warren Memorial Golf Course in Waterloo, Iowa is a classic, having been around since 1908. It's an affordable option for any golfer, with a flat rate of $16 whether you choose to play on a weekday or weekend. The course, open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, features an early 6:00 AM tee time for those who prefer a morning round. It's a traditional 18-hole course with Bent Grass greens, typically aerated in September, and Bluegrass fairways, dotted with up to 20 bunkers to challenge your game. Plus, if you have a larger group, you'll be pleased to know that fivesomes are allowed. All in all, it's a reliable choice for a satisfying round of golf.
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Green Valley Municipal Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Sioux City
The Green Valley Municipal Golf Club in Sioux City, Iowa, is a classic course with a rich history, having been designed by David Gill back in 1960. This 18-hole, par 72 course offers a fair challenge with 20 strategically placed bunkers, and is well maintained with Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways. It's also an affordable option, with a flat rate of $15 whether you play on a weekday or weekend. The course opens as early as 7:30 AM, perfect for those who enjoy a round of golf in the cool morning air. Fivesome groups are welcome, making it a great choice for golf outings with friends or colleagues. Just keep in mind, the greens are typically aerated in September, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Highland Park Municipal Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Mason City
Highland Park Municipal Golf Course in Mason City, Iowa, designed by David Gill in 1918, is a classic 18-hole course that offers a blend of history and modern golfing experience. The course's Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways are meticulously maintained, offering a smooth playing surface, though the aeration schedule varies. With a reasonable fee of $17, whether you choose to play on a weekday or weekend, you can tee off as early as 7:00 AM and enjoy the challenge of navigating through 20 bunkers scattered strategically across the course. The course accommodates fivesome golf groups, making it a great destination for a golf outing with friends. Note that operating hours are from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so plan your game accordingly.
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Squaw Creek Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Marion
Squaw Creek Golf Course, located in Marion, Iowa, is a classic course designed by Herman Thompson back in 1968. This 18-hole course offers an affordable golfing experience, with both weekday and weekend rates set at just $14. The course opens bright and early at 8:00 AM, perfect for those who love to start their day on the green. The course is beautifully maintained with Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, though it's worth noting that the number of bunkers is on the higher side, with 20 scattered throughout the course. Unfortunately, larger golf groups of five are not permitted. So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly, early morning round on a course with a bit of a challenge, Squaw Creek could be just the place you're looking for.
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Finkbine Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Iowa City
Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City, Iowa is a golfer's delight offering an 18-hole course with a par of 72. Built in 1953 and designed by Robert B. Harris, the course is beautifully landscaped with Bent Grass greens and fairways, meticulously maintained with aeration typically done in May and September. With a very affordable fee of $30, golfers can play any day of the week, starting as early as 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM. However, it's worth noting that Fivesome groups are not permitted at this course. The course also boasts of a whopping 80 bunkers, adding a challenging yet enjoyable twist to your game. Finkbine Golf Course is a perfect blend of affordability, challenge, and beauty, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
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East West Course at Beaver Creek Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Grimes
The East West Course at Beaver Creek Golf Course, designed by Jerry Reible in 1991, is a delightful 18-hole golfing experience located in Grimes, Iowa. With a par of 72 and fairways and greens crafted from Bent Grass, the course offers an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The course is open from 5:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the earliest tee time also at 5:30 AM, making it perfect for early birds. Priced at a reasonable $23 for both weekdays and weekends, it is an affordable golfing choice. However, keep in mind that fivesomes are not allowed and there are up to 30 bunkers scattered throughout the course to keep you on your toes. Also, remember that the greens are aerated in May and September, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Lakeside Municipal Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Fort Dodge
Lakeside Municipal Golf Course in Fort Dodge, Iowa, is an affordable and accessible choice for golf enthusiasts. Built in 1970, this 18-hole course offers a par of 72, with both Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways. The course opens early at 6:30 AM and stays open until 5:00 PM, providing ample time for a leisurely game. However, if you're planning a group outing, please note that fivesomes are not allowed. The course has up to 10 bunkers, adding a slight challenge to your game. Also, keep in mind that the greens are typically aerated in April and September, which may affect your play.
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A. H. Blank Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Des Moines
The A.H. Blank Golf Course in Des Moines, Iowa, is a charming and well-maintained course that has been a staple in the community since it was designed by Larry Packard in 1971. This 18-hole, par 72 course offers a fair challenge with its 30 strategically placed bunkers and a mix of Winter Rye greens and Bluegrass fairways. The course is open from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the earliest tee time being 8:00 AM, and it accommodates fivesome golf groups. The greens are typically aerated in April and September for optimal playing conditions. With an affordable rate of $19, regardless of whether you play on a weekday or weekend, it offers a great value for golfers. The A.H. Blank Golf Course is a must-visit for those seeking a quality golf experience in the heart of Iowa.
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Meadows Golf Club - Best Public Golf Course in Dubuque
Meadows Golf Club in Dubuque, Iowa, is a well-established course, having been designed by Bob Lohmann in 1996. This 18-hole course has a par of 72 and is beautifully maintained with Bent Grass greens and fairways. It's worth noting that the course is aerated periodically in May, July, and September to keep it in top shape. The course features a substantial 70 bunkers, adding a challenging yet enjoyable element to your game. It's open from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the earliest tee time also at 6:30 AM. The green fee is reasonably priced at $26, whether you decide to play on a weekday or weekend. However, keep in mind that fivesome golf groups are not allowed.
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Duck Creek Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Davenport
Duck Creek Golf Course in Davenport, Iowa, is a charming and affordable place to play, with rates at just $13 whether you're teeing off on a weekend or a weekday. This 18-hole course, built in 1945, boasts a par of 70, providing a challenging yet enjoyable game for golfers of varying skill levels. With tee times starting as early as 6:30 AM, you can enjoy a round of golf on the Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, which are meticulously maintained and aerated in April and September. However, keep in mind that larger groups of five are not allowed, and there are up to 10 bunkers scattered throughout to test your skills. The course is open until 5:00 PM, leaving plenty of time for a leisurely game.
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Dodge Park Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Council Bluffs
Dodge Park Golf Course, nestled in the heart of Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a historic 18-hole course that first opened its doors in 1927. With a reasonable fee of $17, regardless of whether you choose to play on a weekday or weekend, it offers an affordable golfing experience. The course boasts Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, which are meticulously maintained and aerated in April and September. Tee times start as early as 6:30 AM, and the course stays open until 5:00 PM, providing ample time for a leisurely game. However, be prepared for a challenge as there are 50 strategically placed bunkers throughout the course. Please note, fivesomes are not permitted, ensuring a smooth pace of play for all golfers.
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Twin Pines Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Cedar Rapids
Twin Pines Golf Course in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a classic course that's been inviting golfers since 1961. It's an affordable option, with fees of just $15 whether you're playing on a weekday or weekend. The course, which features 18 holes with a par of 72, opens bright and early at 6:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. Golfers can enjoy the Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, but be aware that the greens are typically aerated in May and August. The course has 10 bunkers, adding a bit of a challenge, but unfortunately, they don't accommodate fivesome golf groups. So gather your foursome and enjoy a day on this traditional course.
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Spirit Hollow Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Burlington
Spirit Hollow Golf Course in Burlington, Iowa, designed by Rick Jacobson in 1999, is a beautifully crafted 18-hole course featuring a par of 72. With Bent Grass greens and fairways, the course provides a smooth and challenging playing surface, which is typically aerated in September to maintain its top quality. The course, boasting 50 strategically placed bunkers, offers a competitive yet enjoyable experience for golfers. Open from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, it offers flexibility for golfers with busy schedules. The green fee is a reasonable $59, whether you're playing on a weekday or weekend. However, be aware that fivesomes are not allowed, so plan your group accordingly.
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Palmer Hills Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Bettendorf
Palmer Hills Golf Course in Bettendorf, Iowa, is a classic course with a history dating back to 1975, designed by the renowned William J. Spear. This 18-hole course with a par of 71, boasts Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, providing an excellent playing surface for golfers. The course is quite challenging with over 30 strategically placed bunkers that add an exciting dimension to the game. With an affordable fee of $14, whether on a weekday or weekend, and tee times starting as early as 6:30 AM, it offers a great value for money. The course operates from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and even accommodates fivesome golf groups. Keep in mind the greens are typically aerated in September which can affect play, but overall, it's a great course for those seeking a bit of challenge and history.
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Otter Creek Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Ankeny
Otter Creek Golf Course in Ankeny, Iowa, designed by Donald Ripple in 1980, offers a well-maintained 18-hole course with a par of 71. The course boasts Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways, providing a beautiful and challenging terrain for golfers of all skill levels. With a modest fee of $20, whether it's a weekend or a weekday, you can tee off as early as 7:00 AM. The course is equipped with more than 20 strategically placed bunkers, adding an element of challenge to your game. They also accommodate fivesome groups, a rare allowance that could make for a fun golf outing with friends. Keep in mind that the greens are typically aerated in May and September, ensuring a well-kept course throughout the year.
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Veenker Memorial Golf Course - Best Public Golf Course in Ames
If you're a golf enthusiast who appreciates a classic course, Veenker Memorial Golf Course in Ames, Iowa, might just be your next favorite spot. Designed by Perry Maxwell in 1938, this 18-hole, par 72 course features Bent Grass greens and Bluegrass fairways. You can tee off as early as 7:00 AM and the course is open until 5:00 PM, making it perfect for those who love an early morning or late afternoon round. The greens are aerated in April and September, ensuring they're in top condition. While fivesome groups aren't allowed, you'll have around 40 bunkers to test your skills. At $25 for a round, any day of the week, it's an affordable option for a great day on the greens.
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