Metro Detroit's affordable golf courses
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Golf season is finally here, and players of all skill levels will be teeing it up across Metro Detroit.
The big picture: With so many courses in the area, we've compiled a list of fun and affordable options to sharpen your skills.
⛳ Red Oaks, Madison Heights: Well-maintained nine-hole course that's part of Oakland County's parks system.
- The layout (par 31; 2,442 yards) is simple. Yet more skilled players will appreciate the frequent hazards and contours of the greens.
- Ideal for players who like to walk.
- Snag an early weekday tee time when the course is clear and it's possible to play in about an hour.
- Regular rates start at $19 to walk.
⛳ Evergreen Hills, Southfield: Nine-hole, par-34 municipal course that's welcoming to beginners.
- At less than 3,000 yards, the course is fairly short. But trouble is lurking in the deep rough if you miss the fairways and greens.
- Excellent value, with fees starting at $14.
⛳ Belle Isle golf center: The city's premier park features a state-of-the-art driving range, with an 18-hole chip-and-putt course.
- Other quality ranges in the area include the Royal Oak Golf Center and Carl's Golfland locations in Bloomfield Hills and Plymouth.
- Prices vary, but generally are less than $20 to hit a big bucket of balls.
⛳ Huron Hills, Ann Arbor: This municipal course is more than a century old, situated near the Huron River and picturesque Gallup Park.
- 18 holes; par 67; 5,071 yards.
- While the course is suitable for beginners, even scratch golfers will find the par 3s challenging.
- Rates range from $17 to walk nine on weekdays to $42 to play 18 in a cart.
⛳ Rackham, Huntington Woods: A historic course near the Detroit Zoo that was designed by Donald Ross, the legendary golf architect behind famous courses such as Oakland Hills and Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina.
- More challenging than other courses on this list, yet it remains popular with beginners.
- Rates range from $23-$60.
💭 Joe's thought bubble: I'm not a golf snob, but slow play is a concern at many of these courses. My advice is to play as early as possible on weekdays or be patient and enjoy the surrounding scenery!
📬 Did we forget your favorite value course? Hit reply and let us know!