11 Best Golf Courses in Kentucky
Kentucky offers a memorable golf experience, combining championship courses, scenic landscapes, exclusive club amenities, and easy access to some of the state's best-known destinations. With major airports in Louisville, Lexington, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky, and Nashville all within reach of several top courses, it is a convenient choice for both weekend escapes and longer getaways. Most courses are open year-round, but the best time to golf in Kentucky is generally spring through fall, when mild temperatures, green fairways, and colorful scenery make the courses especially inviting.
At Keene Trace Golf Club, golfers can experience the same Champions Course that hosts the PGA TOUR's Barbasol Championship. At The Club at Olde Stone, players can enjoy an Arthur Hills-designed championship course as well as The Sink Hole, a distinctive 9-hole par-3 short course. Near Mammoth Cave National Park, Park Mammoth Golf Club offers a beautifully redesigned public course that pairs classic golf architecture with one of Kentucky's most iconic natural attractions.
Valhalla Golf Course
Named after the great warrior hall from Nordic mythology, this course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is sure to impress. Valhalla Golf Course has hosted many events, including the 65th Senior PGA Championship in 2004 and the 106th PGA Championship in 2024. It is also currently set to host the 2028 Solheim Cup. Not only does Valhalla have a beautiful golf course and clubhouse, but it also offers many other amenities, including golf experience simulator rooms and a members-only practice tee, as well as putting and chipping greens. While many would love to be a member at Valhalla, membership is very exclusive, with most needing to be invited by an existing member. Since the course is within 20 miles of Louisville, there are many places to stay in the city, including the Staybridge Suites, for a mix of comfort and convenience.
Persimmon Ridge Golf Club
Persimmon Ridge Golf Club is a private, 18-hole championship course designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills. Located between Louisville and Shelbyville, the course winds through wooded terrain, creeks, and lakes, with approximately 120 feet of elevation change contributing to its reputation as one of the region's most challenging layouts. The club received Golf Digest's Outstanding Design Award in 2007 and was ranked No. 9 among Kentucky's best golf courses in Golf Digest's 2021-2022 Best in State rankings. As part of the Fleur-De-Lis Clubs network, members enjoy access to Persimmon Ridge's golf course, clubhouse, and dining facilities, as well as reciprocal privileges at Oxmoor Country Club and Polo Fields Golf & Country Club. Additional amenities include Elmore's Restaurant and access to Oxmoor Country Club's golf shop, fitness center, and three swimming pools.
University of Louisville Golf Club
The University of Louisville Golf Club features an 18-hole championship course designed by Spencer Holt, with multiple teeing options stretching to approximately 7,200 yards. The course is known for its bentgrass greens, zoysia fairways, and extensive practice facilities, including a 22-acre practice area. Over the years, ULGC has hosted notable tournaments, including the Kentucky Women's Open and NCAA regional competition. Members can choose from a variety of membership options, including family, individual, and student memberships, and enjoy amenities such as a Junior Olympic-size swimming pool, year-round social events, and dining at Louie's Grille. Located in Simpsonville, the club offers convenient access to Louisville and the many lodging, dining, and entertainment options available throughout the area, including the legendary Galt House on the waterfront.
Heritage Hill
Located in Shepherdsville, Heritage Hill Golf Club features a public 18-hole championship course designed by Doug Beach, a former Jack Nicklaus design associate. Stretching more than 7,100 yards, the course was recognized by Golf Digest as one of the Top 10 New Courses in America in 2008 and is known for its rolling terrain and scenic views of Kentucky's Knobs region. The club's affordable green fees vary by season, include cart rental, and can be booked online. Minutes from Louisville, Heritage Hill provides convenient access to the city's dining, entertainment, and lodging options, but for visitors seeking a distinctive Kentucky experience, a popular nearby accommodation is Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast in the heart of Kentucky Bourbon Country. It features historic accommodations, a bourbon-themed experience, an on-site bourbon bar, and a spa, making it an appealing choice for golfers looking to combine a round at Heritage Hill with a visit to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Lassing Pointe Golf Course
With a course designed by renowned golf architect Dr. Michael Hurdzan and widely regarded as one of Kentucky's premier public golf destinations, Lassing Pointe has earned numerous accolades from Golfweek and other publications for its challenging yet player-friendly design and outstanding course conditions. Golfers can sharpen their skills at the practice facility, which features an all-grass driving range, multiple putting greens, and a dedicated chipping area. The course also offers season-pass options for both Boone County residents and non-residents. Tee times are required, and green fees for 18 holes are less than $50, with discounted rates for juniors and seniors. For those needing to travel to experience Lassing Pointe, this course is about a quick drive from the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. As for lodgings, there are plenty that can be found in and around Cincinnati, including the Hotel Covington, which also offers a full-service, in-house restaurant and lounge.
Big Spring Country Club
Established in 1926, Big Spring Country Club is one of Louisville's premier private clubs, offering a championship golf experience along the scenic Beargrass Creek corridor. The club's East Course features zoysia tees and fairways, bentgrass greens, and a notable renovation by renowned architect Rees Jones completed in 2004. Beyond golf, members enjoy an extensive range of amenities, including tennis and pickleball courts, a junior Olympic-size swimming pool, fitness facilities, and indoor TrackMan golf simulators for year-round practice and play. Big Spring also hosts a full calendar of social and family-oriented events throughout the year. Dining options include the elegant Wanamaker Bar and the more casual Bunker Bar. Membership provides reciprocal access to both Big Spring Country Club and Harmony Landing Country Club, giving members access to additional golf, dining, and recreational amenities across both properties. For visitors traveling to the area, Louisville offers a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within a short drive of the club.
Lexington Country Club
Located in the Horse Capital of the World, the Lexington Country Club offers an 18-hole championship course originally designed by renowned architect Thomas Bendelow. Playing from approximately 6,000 to more than 7,100 yards, the course provides a challenge for golfers of all skill levels and is complemented by a driving range, putting green, and dedicated chipping and bunker practice area. Members enjoy a variety of additional amenities, including a heated Olympic-size swimming pool, diving well, children's pool, and an indoor golf simulator. The club also features multiple dining venues, including a formal dining room, casual grill, and patio dining area. Conveniently located just 10 miles from Blue Grass Airport, Lexington Country Club is also close to the city's many hotels, restaurants, horse farms, and bourbon attractions.
Keene Trace Golf Club
Designed by Arthur Hills and developed in 1987 by Tom Heilbron, the Keene Trace Golf Club is a beautiful place to golf. The club has hosted many tournaments, including the PGA TOUR Barbasol Championship and the Men's & Women's SEC Championships. A membership to Keene Trace can grant access to two championship 18-hole courses, the Champions Course and the Keene Run Course, as well as casual and fine dining options, and even fishing in designated areas. For visitors traveling to the region, Keene Trace is conveniently located near Blue Grass Airport and a variety of lodging options. One standout choice is The Kentucky Castle, a unique luxury hotel and farm set on more than 100 acres that offers upscale accommodations, farm-to-table dining, spa services, and a distinctly Kentucky experience.
The Hurstbourne Country Club
Located in Louisville, Hurstbourne Country Club is a member-owned club that offers one of the region's premier golf experiences. The club's golf facilities span approximately 243 acres and include three nine-hole courses originally designed by Chick Adams, as well as an 18-hole Championship Course that was later restored and redesigned by renowned architect Keith Foster. Over the years, Hurstbourne has hosted notable events, including the Foster Brooks Pro-Celebrity Golf Tournament, the Kentucky Open, and U.S. Open qualifying competitions. The range of amenities for resident and junior members includes a fitness center, a junior Olympic-sized pool, racquet sports facilities, multiple dining venues, and an expansive, historic clubhouse. For lodging, the Hurstbourne is very close to the many hotels in the Louisville area.
The Club at Old Stone
Designed by renowned golf architect Arthur Hills, The Club at Olde Stone is a premier private golf destination in Bowling Green. The club's championship 18-hole course stretches more than 7,300 yards and has earned recognition for its challenging layout, exceptional course conditions, and history of hosting collegiate and championship competition. In addition to the main course, Olde Stone features The Sink Hole, a unique 9-hole par-3 short course that provides a fun and relaxed golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Members and guests enjoy a variety of amenities, including multiple dining venues, practice facilities, and luxury accommodations at The Lodge at Olde Stone. The lodge offers 12 guest suites, and overnight guests receive access to club dining and guest golf privileges. Membership options are available for local residents as well as non-resident and out-of-state members. Conveniently located near Bowling Green's hotels, restaurants, and attractions, the club is also within easy reach of Barren River Lake State Resort Park and Nashville International Airport.
Park Mammoth Golf Club
Located in Park City, Kentucky, Park Mammoth Golf Club is a historic 18-hole course that underwent a comprehensive redesign by Brian Ross and Colton Craig of Ross Golf Design in 2021 before reopening in 2022. Known for its classic design and scenic setting, Park Mammoth offers golfers a memorable experience just minutes from Mammoth Cave National Park, one of Kentucky's most popular natural attractions. The club offers membership opportunities and public play, making it accessible to both local golfers and visitors, with green fees and daily rates available year-round. Nearby accommodations include the Grand Victoria Inn, while dining options such as Gerard's 1907 Tavern in Bowling Green provide additional opportunities to experience the region. Conveniently situated between Louisville and Nashville, Park Mammoth Golf Club is within reasonable driving distance of both cities and their respective airports, making it an appealing destination for traveling golfers.
The State to Golf
From championship layouts designed by some of golf's most respected architects to private clubs rich in history and modern amenities, Kentucky offers an impressive variety of golf experiences for players of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to test your game on a PGA host venue, enjoy a relaxing round surrounded by the state's rolling hills and horse country, or plan a golf getaway that includes bourbon, dining, and outdoor recreation, you'll find it here. With many courses located near major cities, airports, and attractions such as Mammoth Cave National Park and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Kentucky continues to grow as a premier destination for both local golfers and visitors alike. No matter which course you choose, you'll find a combination of Southern hospitality, scenic beauty, and, of course, memorable golf.
