News Summary
Orlando offers a perfect escape for East Coast golfers seeking a weekend getaway. With sunny weather and a variety of public golf courses, golfers can enjoy unique experiences at courses like Winter Park Golf Course, ChampionsGate, and Walt Disney World Resort. This guide explores the top public courses, including the challenging layouts and family-friendly attractions available, making it an ideal destination for both solo golfers and families alike.
Weekend Golf Getaways: Your Guide to Orlando’s Best Public Courses
If you’re an East Coast golfer itching for a weekend escape, look no further than Orlando! With its sunny weather and multitude of quality public golf courses, it’s an ideal spot to tee off, relax, and unwind.
Let’s talk about Winter Park Golf Course, affectionately known as WP9. Located just six miles north of Orlando, this charming 9-hole course was revamped in 2016 by the talented duo Keith Rhea and Riley Johns. WP9 is a par-35 course that’s not only impressively ranked among the best 9-hole courses in the world but also designed with walking in mind. It features a mix of fun par-3s and drivable par-4s, perfect for a leisurely day of golf!
Discover the Beauty of ChampionsGate
Next on the agenda is ChampionsGate, a 45-hole golf haven often referred to as the Bandon Dunes of Florida. With a circular driving range and a 36-hole putting course, ChampionsGate boasts both the Panther Lake and Crooked Cat courses, plus a delightful 9-hole course called the Tooth. Panther Lake is known for its challenging layout, while both courses are set on rolling grounds, providing stunning elevation changes and no pesky homes in sight, allowing you to soak in the great outdoors as you play.
The Magic of Disney Golf
And can you believe that the Walt Disney World Resort has its very own golf courses? That’s right! With the “Happiest Place on Turf” tagline, Disney offers four unique courses: the Palms, Magnolia, and Lake Buena Vista – three of which have hosted PGA Tour events in the past. Currently, the Magnolia course is getting a little face-lift with some touch-up work and is temporarily playing as a par-71, offering a sweet 15-percent discount on tee times while renovations are underway!
Greg Norman’s Designs Await
Golf enthusiasts will also love what ChampionsGate has to offer, with two stunning courses designed by golfing legend Greg Norman. The National course is longer and showcases a links-style layout, while the International course weaves through beautiful trees and wetlands for a tranquil round.
Introducing the Evermore Resort Experience
Don’t forget to check out the Evermore Resort, a premier golf destination that took five years to develop across a sprawling 1,100 acres. This resort has replaced the Villas of Grand Cypress and stands out for its incredible variety. The golfing experience here includes two unique courses: the Links Course, designed by the renowned Jack Nicklaus, and the Cypress Course that emphasizes the classic challenges of traditional Florida golf.
The Links Course pays homage to the iconic St. Andrews, featuring design elements like double greens and fun mounding that will test your skills, while the Cypress Course presents nasty water hazards that will keep you on your toes!
A Family-Friendly Atmosphere
As if that’s not enough, Evermore also boasts a whopping 12 eateries, a lagoon for all sorts of water activities, and a variety of accommodations for your family, offering over 1,500 bedrooms that include both hotel rooms and private homes. It’s a great spot whether you’re bringing the whole family or just a buddy for a little weekend golf.
Accessibility and Variety Galore
Orlando is known for its accessibility, with a plethora of courses just a quick drive from Disney World, including the consistently top-rated Southern Dunes (ranked No. 5 in Florida) and Bay Hill (ranked No. 4). You can even venture to Streamsong, home to multiple award-winning courses that have taken the top spots at No. 2 and No. 3!
In Conclusion
With a diverse range of golfing experiences, the Florida golf scene never disappoints. Whether you’re tackling shots over sparkling waters or navigating various hazards, there’s plenty of opportunity for fun and excitement. So, gather your friends, pack your clubs, and get ready to tee off in sunny Orlando!
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Additional Resources
- Golf.com: Orlando Golf Guide
- Golf Digest: Best Public Golf Courses in Orlando
- GolfPass: Evermore Best Golf Resort Orlando
- Visit Florida: Playing Florida’s Best Public Golf Courses
- Golf Monthly: Play Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Orlando
