Iowa State is a hub for golf enthusiasts, with numerous golf courses spread across the state. However, when it comes to competitive golf, one question arises – where does Iowa State play golf? The answer lies in the university’s golf courses, which are among the best in the country. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top golf courses in Iowa State, their unique features, and what makes them stand out from the rest. Get ready to discover the best golf courses in Iowa State and elevate your golfing experience to the next level.

Iowa State’s Top Golf Courses for Experienced Players

The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama is a true testament to the craftsmanship of renowned golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Jr. Jones, who has designed over 250 courses worldwide, has a reputation for creating challenging and visually stunning golf courses. His design philosophy focuses on utilizing the natural terrain and features of the land to create unique and memorable golf experiences. At The Legacy Golf Course, this philosophy is evident throughout the entire 18-hole course, with each hole presenting a different challenge to golfers.

Hosted several national championships

The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama has hosted several national championships, showcasing its reputation as one of the best golf courses in Iowa. The course has been the venue for the U.S. Women’s Open and the U.S. Senior Open, among other prestigious tournaments. These events have further solidified the course’s reputation as a challenging and world-class golf destination.

18-hole course with challenging holes

The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama is an 18-hole course that features a variety of challenging holes. Each hole is unique and presents a different challenge to golfers, making the course a true test of skill and ability. The course’s layout includes rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous water hazards, all of which contribute to the course’s overall difficulty. The course’s signature hole is the par-3 16th, which features a long carry over water to a small green protected by bunkers. This hole is considered one of the most challenging and picturesque holes on the course.

In conclusion, The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama is a must-play for experienced golfers in Iowa. Its design by Robert Trent Jones Jr., hosting of national championships, and challenging holes make it a true test of golfing ability.

The Pioneer Course at The Club at Ames

• Designed by Tom Lehman and John Morrissett
  • Renowned golf course architects who have designed numerous award-winning courses across the United States
• Features 18 holes with rolling hills and water hazards
  • A challenging layout that requires precision and strategic thinking from golfers of all skill levels
  • The course’s rolling hills provide a unique and memorable golfing experience, while the water hazards add an extra layer of difficulty for those looking to test their skills
• Hosted several college and high school tournaments
  • A testament to the course’s quality and reputation among golfers in the state and beyond
  • Hosting college and high school tournaments allows aspiring young golfers to showcase their talents on a world-class course and potentially catch the attention of college recruiters and coaches.

Iowa State’s Scenic Golf Courses for Casual Players

The Highlands at Prairie Meadows

• 18-hole course with stunning views of the Des Moines skyline
  • This course boasts a challenging layout that winds through a variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering creeks.
  • Golfers are treated to breathtaking views of the Des Moines skyline, particularly from the elevated tee boxes and fairways.
• Designed by Rees Jones and Tom Kite
  • The Highlands at Prairie Meadows was designed by renowned golf course architects Rees Jones and Tom Kite, who collaborated to create a course that would challenge golfers of all skill levels.
  • The pair took advantage of the natural contours and features of the land to create a course that is both aesthetically pleasing and challenging to play.
• Hosted several charity events and fundraisers
  • The Highlands at Prairie Meadows has played host to numerous charity events and fundraisers over the years, attracting a diverse range of golfers who are looking to make a difference in their community.
  • These events have raised thousands of dollars for local causes, making the course a hub of philanthropic activity in the region.

The Links at Castle Pines

The Links at Castle Pines is a premier golf course located in the picturesque suburban setting of Hiawatha, Iowa. This 18-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Designed by Jim Colbert and Dave Norman

The Links at Castle Pines was designed by renowned golf course architects Jim Colbert and Dave Norman. The pair’s expertise is evident in the course’s strategic layout, which takes full advantage of the natural terrain and incorporates challenging sand traps.

18-hole course with natural terrain and sand traps

The course boasts an 18-hole layout that winds its way through natural terrain, including mature trees, rolling hills, and water hazards. Sand traps are strategically placed throughout the course, making accuracy and precision crucial to a successful round.

Located in a picturesque suburban setting

The Links at Castle Pines is nestled in a peaceful suburban setting, offering a tranquil and scenic golfing experience. The course’s lush fairways and well-manicured greens provide a visually stunning backdrop for golfers as they navigate the challenging holes.

In addition to its picturesque setting, The Links at Castle Pines also offers a variety of amenities to enhance the golfer’s experience. The on-site clubhouse features a pro shop, a full-service restaurant, and a bar, making it the perfect place to unwind after a round of golf. The course also offers a driving range, practice greens, and a PGA-certified teaching professional to help golfers improve their skills.

Overall, The Links at Castle Pines is a must-play course for any golfer visiting Iowa State. Its challenging layout, stunning scenery, and top-notch amenities make it a truly unforgettable golfing experience.

Iowa State’s Most Affordable Golf Courses for Beginners

The Finkbine Golf Course at the University of Iowa

The Finkbine Golf Course at the University of Iowa is a popular choice for golf enthusiasts looking for an affordable 18-hole course. The green fees are reasonably priced, making it an excellent option for beginners who want to enjoy a round of golf without breaking the bank.

• Designed by Alister MacKenzie and Perry Maxwell: The Finkbine Golf Course was designed by two renowned golf course architects, Alister MacKenzie and Perry Maxwell. MacKenzie is known for designing Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters Tournament, while Maxwell is famous for designing Prairie Dunes Country Club in Kansas. Their expertise is evident in the course’s layout, which offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
• Hosted several amateur and collegiate tournaments: The Finkbine Golf Course has hosted numerous amateur and collegiate tournaments over the years, including the Big Ten Championships and the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. These events have helped to establish the course’s reputation as a challenging and well-designed golf course that is capable of hosting top-level competitions.

Overall, the Finkbine Golf Course at the University of Iowa is an excellent choice for beginners looking for an affordable and challenging 18-hole course. Its design by two renowned architects and its history of hosting prestigious tournaments make it a must-play destination for golfers in Iowa.

The Copper Creek Golf Course at The University of Northern Iowa

• 9-hole course with affordable green fees
  • Green fees are a fraction of the cost of most 18-hole courses, making it an ideal option for beginners and casual players who are on a budget.
• Designed by John Stoltz
  • John Stoltz, a renowned golf course architect, designed the course with a focus on creating a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
• Ideal for beginners and casual players
  • The course’s layout is designed to be player-friendly, with wide fairways and strategically placed hazards that encourage golfers to think about their shots without overwhelming them with difficulty.

Iowa State’s Golf Courses with the Best Practice Facilities

The Golf Club at Tabor

• 27-hole course with practice facilities
  • The Golf Club at Tabor boasts a 27-hole course that is meticulously maintained to provide golfers with an exceptional playing experience.
• Driving range with target greens
  • The driving range at The Golf Club at Tabor features target greens that enable golfers to work on their accuracy and distance control.
• Putting green and chipping area
  • The putting green and chipping area at The Golf Club at Tabor offer golfers the opportunity to practice their short game and work on their putting skills.

In addition to its excellent practice facilities, The Golf Club at Tabor also offers a well-stocked pro shop, a full-service restaurant, and a beautiful clubhouse with a spacious locker room. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, The Golf Club at Tabor is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to improve their game or simply enjoy a day on the links.

The Ackerman Freestanding Hitting Facility at The Club at 555

• 30,000-square-foot facility with hitting bays
  • Multiple hitting bays equipped with the latest golf technology
  • All-weather hitting surfaces for year-round practice
• Indoor swing analysis technology
  • High-speed cameras for motion analysis
  • Launch monitors for ball flight analysis
  • 3D swing analysis software for a comprehensive understanding of your swing
• Instruction from PGA professionals
  • Personalized coaching from experienced golf instructors
  • Customized lesson plans tailored to your specific needs
  • Regular tournaments and events for members to practice and compete.

Iowa State’s Golf Courses with the Best Dining Experiences

18th Hole Bar and Grill with Panoramic Views

The 18th Hole Bar and Grill at The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama offers patrons a stunning view of the golf course and the surrounding landscape. With its panoramic windows, the grill provides a unique dining experience where diners can enjoy their meals while taking in the picturesque views of the golf course.

Seasonal Menu with Local Ingredients

The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama takes pride in offering a seasonal menu that features local ingredients. This commitment to using locally sourced produce ensures that the food served is fresh and of the highest quality. The menu changes with the seasons, offering diners a unique culinary experience that reflects the best of Iowa’s agricultural produce.

Full-Service Bar with Craft Beers and Cocktails

The Full-Service Bar at The Legacy Golf Course at Lake Panorama is stocked with a variety of craft beers and cocktails. The bar is staffed by knowledgeable bartenders who can recommend the perfect drink to pair with your meal. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing beer after a round of golf or a cocktail to celebrate a special occasion, the bar at The Legacy Golf Course has you covered.

The Grille at The Meadows at Sand Creek Golf Course

Exceptional Menu Offerings

• The Grille at The Meadows at Sand Creek Golf Course boasts a delectable menu that showcases Iowa-raised beef and produce, ensuring that diners can indulge in the freshest and most succulent dishes.
• With an emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients, the menu is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

Picturesque Outdoor Patio

• The Grille at The Meadows at Sand Creek Golf Course offers a stunning outdoor patio with breathtaking views of the 18th hole, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the green.
• Whether enjoying a pre- or post-game meal, the patio provides a serene setting for golf enthusiasts to soak up the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Casual Atmosphere with Indoor and Outdoor Seating Options

• The Grille at The Meadows at Sand Creek Golf Course provides a welcoming atmosphere that is both casual and inviting.
• With both indoor and outdoor seating options available, diners can choose to relax in the cozy interior or bask in the sunshine on the patio.
• Whether a solo visitor or part of a large group, the Grille is sure to provide a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for all.

FAQs

1. Where does Iowa State play golf?

Iowa State University has a strong golf program, and its team plays at various golf courses throughout the state. While the team may have a home course, they often travel to different courses for matches and tournaments.

2. What are some of the best golf courses in Iowa State?

Iowa State is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. Some of the most notable courses include the Ames Golf and Country Club, the Cedar Rapids Golf Club, and the Wakonda Club in Des Moines. Each of these courses offers a unique challenge and stunning views of the state’s natural landscapes.

3. Does Iowa State have a home golf course?

While Iowa State may not have a permanent home course, the team often plays at the Cold Spring Golf Course in Ames. This public course is well-maintained and offers a challenging round of golf for players of all skill levels.

4. Can the public play on the golf courses where Iowa State plays?

Many of the golf courses where Iowa State plays are open to the public. However, it’s important to note that some courses may be booked for private events or tournaments, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and check availability.

5. How can I stay up-to-date on Iowa State’s golf schedule?

Iowa State’s golf schedule can be found on the university’s athletics website. Fans can also follow the team on social media for updates on matches and tournaments, as well as news about the program.

Iowa State Golf Performance Center