Did you know that Iowa has more nine-hole golf courses than any other U.S. state? The Hawkeye State has approximately 254 nine-hole golf courses, according to the National Golf Foundation. That’s nearly 50 more than the two states that follow—New York at 209 and Texas at 207.
If you’re looking to play some great nine-hole golf courses in Iowa, check out this list of nine not-to-be-missed public courses.
Twice named the Iowa Golf Association's nine-hole course of the year, Stone Creek Golf Club—which was designed by five-time PGA Tour champion D.A. Weibring—is well-known as one of the best nine-hole courses in Iowa and around the U.S. At this Williamsburg course, you’ll find well-manicured fairways, nearly 20 bunkers, and expansive—yet challenging—greens.
Explore: Once you're through the course, head to Old Man's Creek Winery to sip local wines or tour the Kinze Innovation Center to learn all about the legacy of innovation in agriculture.
If you’re looking for a pristine nine-hole golf course that is also extremely walkable, you’ll find just that at Holstein Country Club. Just a short trek off Highway 20 in northwest Iowa, this Holstein attraction features tree-lined fairways, water on three different holes, and a few sand traps. Hit the ball straight, or you’ll certainly have a long day.
Explore: Once you're through the course, relax with a snack and movie at the historic State Theatre. Or head to nearby Ida Grove and grab lunch at The Farmacy soda fountain.
Built in 1915, Sunny Brae Golf and Country Club, located just south of Osage, is one of the more unique and picturesque courses in the Iowa. At just over 2,600 yards, this shorter nine-hole course features three holes with substantial elevation changes, four holes with the Cedar River in play and a clubhouse with sweeping views of the course.
Explore: Once you're through the course, grab lunch or dinner at Teluwut Grille House & Pub or Becmar Diner, or enjoy local brews at Limestone Brewers. Then take a walk through the Mitchell County Historical Museum or embrace nature at the Milton R. Owen Nature Center.
Just a short 20-minute drive southeast of Iowa City, the West Liberty Golf & Country Club is a challenging and well-maintained nine-hole golf course. This gently rolling track features one of the longest par 3s in the state of Iowa—a 246-yard par-3 with water in front of the green.
Explore: Once you're through the course, head to nearby West Branch and grab some pizza from Herb n' Lou's or authentic Mexican cuisine from Mexico Lindo Grill & Cantina. Then dive into a unique piece of Iowa history at the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum.
Just about 10 miles from the Iowa-Missouri border, you’ll find the Bloomfield Country Club, a great small-town course. This par 35 course recently celebrated its 100th birthday and features just one water hazard and rolling hills throughout the Bloomfield property.
Explore: Once you're through the course, sit down to a meal and live music at Chommy's in Eldon. Then stop by the famous American Gothic House or tour the Rock Island Train Depot.
You’ll be hard pressed to find a more challenging opening three holes in the state of Iowa than what you’ll encounter at Crestmoor Golf Club. After a hilly and challenging 430-yard par 4 to open, you’ll then be greeted by a 220-yard par 3 that only has the top of the flagstick visible from the tee box. You’ll then turn back toward the clubhouse and maneuver a 582-yard par 5. After that stern opening three holes, you’ll be well prepared to tackle the final six holes in Creston.
Explore: Once you're through the course, grab lunch or dinner at A & G Restaurant & Lounge or sample unique brews at Hot Air Brewing. Then tour the Union County Historical Village & Museum or admire local and regional works at the Creston Arts Center & Gallery.
Just off Lake Cornelia is the always well-kept Clarmond Country Club. This tree-lined, nine-hole course north of Clarion doesn’t have any water hazards to threaten your round, but the course features seven bunkers and one unique hazard to traverse on the ninth hole—a railroad track that runs in front of the green.
Explore: Once you're through the course, take a quick tour of the Heartland Museum. Then head to nearby Belmond to try one of the Belmond Drive-In's renowned tenderloins.
Situated just off Highway 151 between Cedar Rapids and Dubuque is a welcoming round at Fawn Creek Country Club in Anamosa. This very walkable track doesn’t have a ton of trouble—just two bunkers and water on three holes—but if you get wild off the tee, you’re going to be spending a lot of the day in the trees.
Explore: Once you're through the course, grab a bite to eat inside a historic limestone building at The General Store Pub. Plan ahead to book a tour at the Anamosa State Penitentiary Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
If you’ve ever been to Ida Grove, you know the community of 2,000 residents is known for its medieval feel. When you play the tree-lined, nine-hole golf course in town, you’ll get to experience an awe-inspiring suspension bridge that takes you over Odebolt Creek on two holes—the par-4 third hole and the par-3 fifth hole. It’s a great photo op during your golf travels!
Explore: Once you're through the course, head to Zimmy's Bar & Grille to enjoy a classic American meal or sample local flavors at Old Town Vineyard & Winery.
If you’re looking for two of the most established courses in the state of Iowa—all the while checking out a nine-hole golf course—stop by the Fairfield Golf and Country Club in Fairfield or the Sioux Golf and Country Club in Alton. Both nine-hole courses have storied histories that date back to the late 1800s.
Whether you're seeking rest and relaxation, outdoor exploration or family adventures, the opportunities are endless.
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