How to Find the Best Public Courses in Your Area

Not everyone has a country club membership, a trust fund, or a closet full of white belts. And that’s okay—public courses are where legends (and duffed chips) are born.

Here’s how to find the gems without needing a caddie named Skip:

🔍 Google It (Smarter): Type “best public golf courses near me” + add your city. Then scroll past the ads promising “luxury golfing experiences” with $180 green fees.

🗣️ Word of Mouth: Ask your golf buddies, your barber, or that guy who smells like cigars at the driving range. Everyone’s got a favorite hidden gem.

📱 Apps & Reviews: Check GolfNow, TheGrint, or Yelp. Pro tip: If three reviewers mention “immaculate greens,” go. If they mention “goose droppings” more than once, maybe don’t.

🚘 Willing to Drive: A great course might be 45 minutes away—but if it’s got fast greens, no wait times, and a bar cart that serves tacos? Worth it.

Public golf is the heart of the game. Plus, it builds character. And patience. And a tolerance for the occasional 7-some.