The pandemic golf boom has allowed golf courses that haven't been updated/improved in years the chance to reinvest back into the product.
The following 25 courses earned higher ratings in 2021 than they did in 2020. By reading your course reviews, we can see what sparked the turnaround. In some cases, the improvement is thanks to new ownership or management. Other times, new greens or a clubhouse renovation is to thank. Sometimes it's as simple as better weather helping a course thrive. Regardless, we love seeing signs of positivity.
If you play a course in your hometown that has improved significantly over the years, be sure to share that with your fellow golfers. Write a review
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Dawson Springs, Ky.
What they're saying: "An absolute gem! This course really took me by surprise. The state park it’s on is absolutely gorgeous and the the course lay out was great." - Otter954
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Punta Gorda, Fla.
What they're saying: "Amazing Improvement. The fairways and greens were in excellent condition. I’ve played here before and it was so so but it has really improved. I think they have new carts too." - mullenbe -
Tiffin, Ohio
What they're saying: "I’ve played this multiple (times) and granted last year (the) pump went out, it’s come back a lot and is still continuing - the fairways, tees and rough are green, have nice grass and (are) really coming around." - thesignguy1986 -
Monroe, Mich.
What they're saying: "Lovely classic Ross with improving conditions. I really think this is a gem. ... They’ve cleaned out lots of excess trees over the last 2-3 years, and moved some mow lines further back, much more playable. Also have cleared around the river so it’s more visible. Definitely great value. " - jmcarleton -
North Richland Hills, Texas
What they're saying: "Fun Course. Not a bad course. Better than your average muni after the redo. Pace of play was excellent for a Friday afternoon." - epfrisco -
Oro Valley, Ariz.
What they're saying: "Practically perfect! Last played this course on the day before they closed to replace greens. Happy to report that project turned out well -- the greens now are a bit firm, but otherwise healthy and smooth." - rickthestick -
Sunday River Golf Club showcases spectacular fall colors in Maine. Courtesy photo Newry, Maine
What they're saying: "Great course! Course was in excellent shape. Fast greens and beautiful fairways. Loved it." - Mark6271553 -
Broken Bow, Okla.
What they're saying: "They did a great job of replacing the greens, cleaning up the lake views and reconfiguring the course layout. Have played the course for 15 years, and it’s never been better. Kudos." - golfer review -
San Ramona, Calif.
What they're saying: "I have always loved the layout of San Vicente. Since the big remodel, what was once a very good layout has become even better. The improvements to some of the fairways, the removal of some trees, and much better bunkers is only the beginning. The new greens have transformed the course into a true challenge - undulating, fast, firm, but true rolling." - RickZarkos -
Whittier, N.C.
What they're saying: "Great course. First time to play the course since renovating...Course in great shape." - yomo45 -
Freehold, N.Y.
What they're saying: "Nice layout and beautiful Scenery. Good value for the green fee." - gc922303155 -
DuBois, Pa.
What they're saying: "Course is in great shape. Enjoyed playing here." - tvsvgolf -
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The Architects Golf Club pays homage to many of the game's great designers. Courtesy photo Phillipsburg, N.J.
What they're saying: "I've played Architects a handful of times. Course layout and staff friendliness is very good." - jpvincenti -
Spring Hill, Tenn.
What they're saying: "As a previous owner of this course, I must say that the current owners have done a spectacular job in upgrading the course and adding the amenities that are in progress." - docsacks1 -
Shelbyville, Ind.
What they're saying: "Best value around Indy. Nice layout. You must be able to hit it straight." -james3282943 -
Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.
What they're saying: "Great course for the money! Course condition has improved greatly since playing here a year ago. Greens were a little slow but in great shape." - Conan239 -
Clifton, Va.
What they're saying: "Good for the Value. This course is a nice par 3. It helps your short game. It is a pretty course. The pace of play is very good. Even when it is busy, it moves along." - cleeholland -
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Wide corridors and broad shaping give College Fields a neo-classic look on a budget in Lansing. Brandon Tucker/GolfPass Okemos, Mich.
What they're saying: "The course looks great right now. Played in the morning with no one in front of us and flew by." - garygoose -
Toano, Va.
What they're saying: "Strantz Gem is Back! It was worth the wait. This Mike Strantz gem has been through some hard times, but the new owner has rescued this outstanding layout and it is now in terrific condition." - cgpiallen -
Cincinnati, Ohio
What they're saying: "Not a long course but intelligent in its design. Club selection is crucial and the well thought out holes are fun for all types of players." - Dongleboy -
West Palm Beach, Fla.
What they're saying: "Excellent. The course was in the best shape I’ve ever seen and I’ve been playing there for over 20 years." - annieb -
Ocean Pines, Md.
What they're saying: "New clubhouse. New course superintendent. We were very impressed." - golfer review -
New Orleans, La.
What they're saying: "Local weather had the course in pretty bad shape, but the greens were great. Good value for your money." - da1200433 -
Mohave Valley, Ariz.
What they're saying: "We had not played this course for a few years...at that time conditions were deteriorating. Now a pleasant surprise! This course has made a fantastic comeback. The greens are excellent condition." - golfer review -
Seymour, Ind.
What they're saying: "Hidden gem of southern Indiana. Great course and awesome staff.
Love this course." - B30216
#13 Architects in Philipsburg, NJ is my favorite golf course in New Jersey