If you’re a golf enthusiast or someone who appreciates the serene beauty of a well-manicured course, you might have heard of Erin Hills Golf Club. Situated in the picturesque heart of Wisconsin, Erin Hills is one of the premier golfing destinations in the United States. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply curious, here’s everything you need to know about the location of this renowned golf club.
Erin Hills Golf Club: A Midwestern Gem
Erin Hills Golf Club is located in Erin, Wisconsin, a quaint town in Washington County, about 35 miles northwest of Milwaukee. The course is nestled in the Kettle Moraine region, a landscape shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago.
This geological history has given the area its distinctive rolling hills, undulating terrain, and wide-open spaces—perfect for a world-class golf course.
Getting to Erin Hills
If you’re traveling from Milwaukee, you’ll find Erin Hills easily accessible. It’s roughly a 50-minute drive via I-41 and WI-83 N. Coming from Madison, Wisconsin’s capital? The drive is a bit longer at about an hour and a half, primarily along US-151 N. For those traveling from Chicago, it’s a two-and-a-half to three-hour drive, making it an ideal golf getaway for city dwellers.
The closest major airport to Erin Hills is General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee. After arriving, the scenic drive through rural Wisconsin is an excellent prelude to the course itself. Visitors coming from further afield often find the journey part of the experience, soaking in the rural charm and tranquil landscape that surrounds Erin Hills.
The Layout and Surroundings
Erin Hills is known for its vast and open design, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers. Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, Dana Fry, and Ron Whitten, the course spans over 652 acres of natural terrain, which was intentionally left as untouched as possible during construction. The result is a course that feels seamlessly integrated with the landscape.
Erin Hills is not just a destination for golf. The club offers on-site lodging, dining, and a serene environment perfect for unwinding. The area surrounding the course is dotted with small lakes, rustic farms, and lush greenery, making it an inviting escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Erin Hills’ Legacy in Golf
Perhaps one of the most notable facts about Erin Hills is that it was the host of the 2017 U.S. Open. This prestigious tournament put the course on the international stage, where top golfers battled the challenging winds and unique landscape to vie for the title. This event firmly established Erin Hills as a bucket-list course for golf lovers.
Why Visit Erin Hills?
Erin Hills Golf Club offers more than just a round of golf; it offers an experience. Its tranquil setting, challenging design, and historical significance in the world of golf make it a must-visit for golfers of all skill levels. The combination of its remote, scenic location and its connection to major golfing events only enhances its appeal.
In short, Erin Hills is an exceptional golf destination located in the heart of Wisconsin’s rolling countryside. Whether you’re drawn by the history of the 2017 U.S. Open or the allure of playing on a course harmonized with nature, Erin Hills promises a memorable golfing experience.
If you’re looking for a golfing adventure in the Midwest, look no further than Erin Hills Golf Club. Its scenic beauty, challenging course, and easy accessibility from major cities like Milwaukee and Chicago make it an attractive destination for anyone passionate about the game.
Pack your clubs, prepare for a challenging course, and enjoy all that Erin Hills and its serene Wisconsin location have to offer!
What to Expect When Visiting Erin Hills
If you’re planning to visit Erin Hills Golf Club, it’s important to know what to expect beyond the stunning landscape and the challenging course. Here’s a breakdown of what awaits you:
The Course
Erin Hills Golf Club is known for its expansive, open terrain that can be both beautiful and daunting. The par-72 course spans 7,731 yards from the back tees, making it one of the longest courses in major championship history. With wide fairways but tricky green complexes, the course demands accuracy, strategy, and patience. However, Erin Hills accommodates all skill levels with multiple tee options that can shorten the course, allowing players of different abilities to enjoy their round.
Accommodations
Erin Hills offers on-site lodging options for guests who want to stay close to the action. The lodging ranges from comfortable, cottage-style accommodations to elegant suites, all designed to offer a peaceful retreat after a long day on the course. Staying at Erin Hills allows guests to immerse themselves in the environment, enjoy early morning or twilight rounds, and take full advantage of all the club’s amenities.
Dining
The dining experience at Erin Hills is an essential part of your visit. The club’s main dining facility, The Irish Pub, offers a variety of meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients, inspired by traditional Irish fare. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast before a round, or indulging in a post-game dinner with fellow golfers, the culinary experience at Erin Hills enhances the overall visit.
Practice Facilities
Before hitting the course, you’ll want to check out Erin Hills’ state-of-the-art practice facilities. The large driving range, short game area, and putting greens offer ample space to warm up, refine your swing, or test the speed of the greens. The course has a practice environment that’s suitable for both beginners looking to hone their skills and seasoned players prepping for a serious round.
Caddie Program
Erin Hills strongly encourages the use of caddies to enhance the golfing experience. These knowledgeable guides are familiar with every nook and cranny of the course, providing valuable insights on shot selection, reading greens, and navigating the terrain. Walking the course with a caddie allows you to fully appreciate the course design and its natural beauty, making for a more enjoyable round.
Exploring the Local Area
Though Erin Hills is relatively remote, the surrounding area has plenty to offer for those looking to explore Wisconsin. A short drive can take you to charming small towns with local shops, historic sites, and scenic trails. Lake Country is nearby, with opportunities for water sports and relaxing lakefront experiences. Additionally, the nearby Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine offers a cultural and spiritual retreat for visitors seeking a moment of peace.
Erin Hills in All Seasons
While Erin Hills is best known for its golf, the beauty of the surrounding region changes with the seasons, making it a delightful place to visit at any time of year.
Spring: Spring brings the course back to life, with lush greens and cool breezes. This is an ideal time for golfers who prefer milder temperatures and want to avoid the peak summer season.
Summer: Summer is peak season at Erin Hills, with the course in its prime and the longer days allowing for extended play. The warm weather brings out the vibrant colors of the natural landscape, making each round even more scenic.
Fall: The fall season offers cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage. The golden and crimson hues provide a dramatic backdrop, making this time of year particularly picturesque for golfers and nature lovers alike.
Winter: While the course closes for the winter, the surrounding area remains beautiful with its snow-covered hills. Erin Hills transitions into a peaceful winter escape, with options for cozy lodging and enjoying the wintry scenery, even if you’re not golfing.
Planning Your Visit
Booking a tee time at Erin Hills requires some advance planning, especially during the peak season. Reservations for lodging and tee times fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to book several months in advance. The course is typically open from May through October, with exact dates dependent on the weather. When planning your trip, consider pairing your visit to Erin Hills with other nearby Wisconsin attractions to create a well-rounded vacation experience.
A Golfer’s Haven
Erin Hills Golf Club isn’t just a golf course; it’s a destination. With its combination of a challenging, beautifully designed course and the tranquil, rolling hills of Wisconsin, Erin Hills offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a serious golfer looking to test your skills on a championship course or a casual player wanting to enjoy a scenic round in a peaceful setting, Erin Hills is well worth the visit.
In summary, Erin Hills Golf Club is a prime destination for golfers seeking both challenge and beauty. Located in Erin, Wisconsin, it promises an experience that goes beyond just golf, offering top-tier amenities, local attractions, and the chance to play on a course that has hosted some of the world’s best golfers.
Pack your bags, book your tee time, and get ready to embrace all that Erin Hills has to offer!
