News Summary
As the excitement surrounding the Arnold Palmer Invitational builds, Orlando presents a great opportunity for golf enthusiasts to enjoy the best public courses. From the rejuvenated Winter Park Golf Course to the expansive Orange County National Golf Center and the iconic Walt Disney World courses, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned player, these local gems promise unforgettable golfing experiences away from the crowds. Embrace the Florida sunshine and hit the greens this weekend!
Orlando’s Top Golf Courses for the Arnold Palmer Invitational Weekend
As the buzz of the Arnold Palmer Invitational fills the air in Orlando, not everyone will be teeing off at the prestigious Bay Hill Club & Lodge. For those who prefer to branch out and enjoy a great round of golf without the crowds, the city offers an array of fantastic public golf courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. Grab your clubs, and let’s explore some local gems!
Winter Park Golf Course (WP9)
First up is the charming Winter Park Golf Course (WP9). This quaint 9-hole, par-35 course was revitalized back in 2016 by the talented duo of Keith Rhea and Riley Johns. With its rich history, WP9 has snagged its place among the best 9-hole courses in the world, thanks to accolades from GOLF Magazine.
Set in a picturesque neighborhood and surrounded by a serene cemetery, charming churches, and a train line, the course radiates old-school charm that golfers can’t resist. For those who love walking while they play, this course is perfect— you can enjoy a leisurely pace while soaking in the local scenery.
Orange County National Golf Center
Next on the list is the Orange County National Golf Center. Located west of Orlando, this expansive facility is often dubbed the “Bandon Dunes of the Sunshine State” for good reason. Here, you can find a selection of 45 holes that promise a truly versatile golf experience.
Among its notable features is a circular driving range—a fun twist to your practice sessions. Plus, there’s a superb 36-hole putting course, and 9-hole “the Tooth” that is sure to challenge your short game. Two 18-hole courses, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, serve up thrills for players. While Panther Lake offers a rugged, challenging experience, both courses are blessed with stunning rolling terrain and significant elevation changes, ensuring that you’re in for an unforgettable golfing adventure with nature all around.
The Four Courses at Walt Disney World
Who would have thought that the Happiest Place on Turf features not one, but four incredible golf courses? The team at Walt Disney World brings you the shining stars: The Palms, The Magnolia, and Lake Buena Vista. All these courses have had their turn hosting PGA Tour events, so you know they’re the real deal.
The Palms, lined with swaying palm trees, and the Magnolia, surrounded by—what else—magnolias, are adorned with beautiful white-sand bunkers and entertaining water hazards. Currently, the Magnolia course is getting a face-lift, which temporarily reduces its play to a par-71. To celebrate, they’re giving golfers a 15-percent discount on tee times until renovations wrap up.
ChampionsGate
For those seeking variety, look no further than ChampionsGate, an expansive 36-hole property that features two Greg Norman-designed courses: the National and the International. The National presents a longer, links-inspired environment, while the International weaves seamlessly through lush trees and wetlands—offering two different experiences that cater to a range of golfing tastes.
To help you warm up, ChampionsGate boasts a training and entertainment center with 30 hitting bays featuring Toptracer Range technology. You can ensure you’re more than ready for your round of golf.
Ending on a High Note
During the highly anticipated golf weekend, the Arnold Palmer Invitational showcases not only the best in competition but also the heart and spirit of the sport. Recently, Russell Henley claimed his fifth PGA Tour victory following an exhilarating performance against Collin Morikawa. Henley’s triumphant chip-in for eagle on the par-5 16th hole set the stage for his win, cementing this tournament as one to remember.
So whether you’re catching the action at Bay Hill or hitting one of Orlando’s fantastic public courses, there’s no shortage of golf-related excitement in the air this weekend. It’s time to swing into fun and enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine!
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Additional Resources
- Golf.com: Orlando’s Top Golf Courses
- NBC Sports: Arnold Palmer Invitational Tee Times
- Sky Sports: Shane Lowry Leads Arnold Palmer Invitational
- ESPN: Russell Henley Wins at Bay Hill
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google Search: Arnold Palmer Invitational
