Nashville, Tennessee, is renowned for its vibrant music scene, but it’s also home to a number of exceptional golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual golfer, you’ll find a course that suits your skill level and offers a unique golfing experience. Here are some of the best golf courses in Nashville.
Vanderbilt Legends Club
Located in Franklin, just south of Nashville, the Vanderbilt Legends Club is known for its two championship golf courses, North and South. The courses offer a challenging layout with rolling hills, beautiful water features, and meticulously maintained fairways. The club has hosted prestigious tournaments, making it a favorite among serious golfers.
Gaylord Springs Golf Links
Set along the Cumberland River, Gaylord Springs Golf Links provides stunning views and a challenging golf experience.
This links-style course features rolling terrain, natural limestone bluffs, and strategically placed bunkers. The signature hole is the par-3 fourth, which requires a tee shot over a dramatic ravine. Golfers can also enjoy the excellent clubhouse facilities.
Hermitage Golf Course
The Hermitage Golf Course, situated near Old Hickory Lake, offers two distinct courses: the General’s Retreat and the President’s Reserve. The General’s Retreat is a classic design with tree-lined fairways and water hazards, while the President’s Reserve is more modern, featuring wide fairways and larger greens. Both courses are well-regarded for their playability and scenery.
Harpeth Hills Golf Course
Harpeth Hills is a public golf course located in Percy Warner Park, one of Nashville’s largest public parks. The course is known for its hilly terrain, challenging greens, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s an excellent choice for golfers looking for a top-notch experience without the country club price tag.
Two Rivers Golf Course
Located near the Grand Ole Opry and Opryland Hotel, Two Rivers Golf Course is another popular public course. It features wide fairways, large greens, and a welcoming atmosphere. The course is suitable for golfers of all skill levels and is known for its affordability.
The Governors Club
For those seeking a private golfing experience, The Governors Club in Brentwood is an excellent option. This upscale club features an Arnold Palmer-designed course with a challenging layout and immaculate conditions. The course is surrounded by luxurious homes and offers a range of amenities, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
Riverside Golf Links
Riverside Golf Links, located near downtown Nashville, is a popular public course that offers a unique layout along the Cumberland River. The course is relatively flat but features several challenging water hazards. It’s a great place for beginners and those looking for a casual round of golf.
Nashville’s golf courses offer a diverse range of experiences, from challenging championship layouts to more accessible public courses. Whether you’re in town for business, a music festival, or just exploring the city, be sure to take advantage of Nashville’s golfing opportunities. With stunning scenery and a welcoming golfing community, Nashville has something for every golf enthusiast.
Tips for Enjoying Nashville’s Golf Courses
If you’re planning to visit Nashville and play some golf, here are a few tips to ensure you have the best experience possible:
Plan Ahead
Many of Nashville’s top golf courses, especially the private ones, require advanced reservations. Be sure to book your tee times well in advance, especially during peak golfing seasons like spring and summer.
Check the Dress Code
Most golf courses in Nashville have dress codes. Typically, collared shirts and golf-specific attire are required. It’s a good idea to check with the course ahead of time to ensure you’re dressed appropriately.
Bring the Right Gear
Tennessee weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for various conditions. Sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket are all good items to pack. Additionally, some courses may require soft spikes, so be sure to have them installed on your golf shoes.
Consider a Caddie
If you’re playing at a private club, consider hiring a caddie. They can offer valuable course knowledge, read greens, and make your round more enjoyable by handling the clubs and providing tips on playing the course.
Take Advantage of the Clubhouse
Many golf courses in Nashville have excellent clubhouses with dining options, pro shops, and other amenities. Take some time after your round to enjoy the clubhouse facilities, grab a meal, or shop for golf gear and souvenirs.
Exploring Nashville’s Golf Culture
In addition to playing golf, Nashville offers a vibrant golf culture with tournaments, charity events, and golf-related activities. Here’s what you can explore beyond the course:
Attend Local Tournaments
Nashville hosts several golf tournaments throughout the year, ranging from charity events to professional competitions. Attending these tournaments is a great way to meet other golf enthusiasts and enjoy the competitive atmosphere.
Visit Golf Shops and Ranges
If you’re looking for golf equipment or want to improve your swing, Nashville has several golf shops and driving ranges. These locations offer a wide selection of clubs, balls, and apparel, as well as practice facilities to work on your game.
Golf and Music Events
Given Nashville’s musical roots, some golf events are combined with live music and entertainment. These events offer a unique experience where you can enjoy a round of golf followed by a concert or musical performance. Keep an eye out for these unique events during your visit.
Nashville is more than just the heart of country music; it’s also a fantastic destination for golf enthusiasts. With a wide variety of golf courses catering to different skill levels and budgets, you’ll find a course that suits you. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round at a private club or a more relaxed game at a public course, Nashville’s golf scene has something for everyone. Enjoy your golfing adventure in Nashville!
