Any players who are familiar with golf in the Midwest know the Great Lakes region is a golfer’s paradise. Even though the season is relatively short, the gradual hills, seemingly endless lakeshores, vast forests and a plethora of water make the Midwest’s topography perfect for golf courses.
Recently, Wisconsin has been making a push for golf supremacy in the region, largely because America’s Dairyland will host the 2017 U.S. Open and the 2020 Ryder Cup.
Any golfer planning a golf trip somewhere in the Midwest would be remiss to ignore Wisconsin’s east coast along Lake Michigan, home to some of the nation’s finest golf courses. Here’s a quick look at some of the best links Wisconsin has to offer.
Whistling Straits
Whistling Straits is one of two 36-hole, links-style golf courses associated with The American Club (more to come on the other), located near Kohler, Wisc. Designed by the legendary Pete and Alice Dye, both courses (the Straits Course and the Irish Course) are not only considered some of the best courses in the Midwest, but indeed the entire world.
The Straits Course is the flagship course at Whistling Straits, and it has hosted many tournaments, including the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships, as well as the 2007 U.S. Senior Open. In 2020, the Straits Course will play host to the Ryder Cup.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, the course attempts to replicate the ancient links-style courses of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Blackwolf Run
The second golf complex associated with The American Club is Blackwolf Run, originally an 18-hole course since expanded to 36 holes. Designed by the inimitable Pete Dye, both courses are considered some of the best in the region, consistently being ranked in the top 100 by many publications.
Set along a glacial river basin, the par-72 course follows the Sheboygan River as it meanders eastward toward Lake Michigan.
Erin Hills
Located in Erin, Wisc., Erin Hills is one of the newer courses in the region, completed in 2006, but has already played host to a number of major tournaments. Designed by Michael John Hurdzan, the par-72 course has been the host of the 2008 U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links and the 2011 U.S. Amateur Championship. It will be the future host for the 2017 U.S. Open.
Taking a minimal approach to design, the course uses the naturally carved features in such a way the golf holes seem to be one and the same with the land. With a “walk-only” policy, expect to enjoy 18 holes in the peace and quiet of Wisconsin’s natural beauty.
Wisconsin is clearly home to some of the greatest golf courses in the country, and maybe even the world. So grab your bag, make a tee-time and get out on the course!
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 16, 2025Best State Parks to Visit in Arkansas
Find outdoor adventure and fewer crowds in Arkansas when you visit some of the states’ more than 50 state parks. All are free to visit and offer a wide variety of experiences, activities and landscapes.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Destinations / Oceania
Apr 16, 2025World’s First Wheelchair-Accessible Bridge Climb Launches in This City
Brisbane, Australia, just raised the bar for inclusive adventure tourism. The Australian city opened the world’s first wheelchair-accessible bridge climb, allowing everyone to scale one of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks. Story Bridge Adventure Climb sets a new standard for travel worldwide; no other bridge climb globally has offered full wheelchair accessibility until now.
Destinations / North America
Apr 15, 2025Discover Culpeper, Virginia’s, Diverse History and Future
The town of Culpeper, Virginia, situated between Richmond and Washington, D.C., launches a new initiative to bring attention to under-recognized aspects of its history, celebrating its diverse past as well as its diverse future. The new Culpeper Uncovered initiative specifically looks at how Black, Indigenous and immigrant communities shaped the area, as well as today’s minority-owned businesses’ impacts.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Destinations / North America
Apr 15, 2025What to Expect from This Year’s Miami Attraction & Museum Months
Miami welcomes the return of its Attractions & Museums Months this spring, highlighting the city’s top cultural institutions, outdoor attractions and hidden gems. This two-month program gives visitors the chance to both discover Miami’s art and cultural heritage and snag great discounts, deals and perks.
ShareThis