10 Must-Play Golf Courses Near Charlotte
The options for a full 18-hole round of golf are bountiful in and around the Charlotte area
by Jamie Killian
Charlotte’s not only ripe with NASCAR, NBA, NFL and NCAA presence; there’s plenty for the golf enthusiast to feel the love. Whether looking for a way to enjoy the sunshine or trying to keep swingin’ after the President’s Cup, there is a veritable treasure trove of golfing experiences within a short drive of the Queen City.
Carolina Lakes Golf Club
Area: Indian Land, South Carolina
About 25 miles from Uptown and just across the South Carolina state line, you will find Carolina Lakes Golf Club. This championship golf course, designed by Tim Freeland, is highly rated and semi-private with a grass tee driving range and practice area. The course is unique for offering “a course within a course” thanks to an additional set of tees making it a par 55 course – perfect for kids, families or new golfers. After a round enjoy a meal at The Tavern on the Lakes, the club’s signature restaurant with a view overlooking the practice area.
Charlotte National Golf Course
Area: Indian Trail
Built in 1996, this course just outside of Charlotte has an old school feel – you can only book tee times by calling them directly. The course is accessible to all levels of play with five sets of tees, a chipping range, driving range, putting area and bunker practice to sharpen your skills before your round.
Crowders Mountain Golf Club
Area: Gastonia
Lying in the valley of the majestic Crowders Mountain 34 minutes west, the 60-year-old Crowders Mountain Golf Club is home of what’s billed as the “Hardest Par 5 in the World.” With spectacular views on almost every hole, the elevation changes are sure to be an exciting challenge. This course offers discounts for foursomes, making it perfect for the whole crew.
Eagle Chase Golf Club
Area: South Charlotte
Some of the best greens in the state belong to Eagle Chase Golf Club. About 45 minutes east of Uptown, this hidden gem is a great value. It has impressive changes in elevation which create a mountain golf experience. Tucked away in the quaint farmland of Union County with a modest clubhouse and snack bar, Eagle Chase is all about golf and surely to deliver for those looking for a slow day on the green.
Edgewater Golf Club
Area: Lancaster, South Carolina
With A1 bentgrass similar to Augusta National, Edgewater Golf Club in Lancaster, South Carolina, is a relatively young course built within a retirement community. This difficult course is great for golfers looking for a challenge. Sitting an hour south of Uptown, be sure to visit their website for the hole-by-hole guide to be well prepared for a fun-filled day on the links.
Mooresville Golf Club
Area: Mooresville
After undergoing a massive $5 million renovation in 2016, the Mooresville Golf Club is an impressive course a 35 minute drive from the city center. Now sporting a 17,000--square-foot clubhouse, dramatic elevations, the On the Nines Bistro, a private event venue and an expanded practice facility. Be sure to register for a tee time here at least a week in advance.
Pinehurst Resort
Area: Pinehurst
A world-renowned course, Pinehurst Resort is the ultimate golf day trip for those looking for a full, luxurious, historical getaway. With plenty of food options, on-site hotel accommodations and home of the famed No. 2 golf course (known as the “Centerpiece of Pinehurst Resort”), this landmark is a golfer’s paradise located just under two hours from Charlotte.
River Oaks Golf Club
Area: Statesville
River Oaks Golf Club is nestled along Buffalo Shoals Creek just a little less than an hour away in Statesville. Often mentioned as a ‘must- play course, River Oaks features excellent course conditions, downhill driving ranges and elevation changes, making it perfect for the seasoned golfer looking for a new challenge.
Skybrook Golf Course
Area: Huntersville
A semi-private course winding through the Skybrook neighborhood, the eponymous course provides an elevated golf experience with MiniVerde Bermudagrass Greens and scenic views, taking golfers through a challenging but approachable course. After a round, head to SkyTop Grill for flatbread pizza and a cold beer.
Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club
Area: Denver
Travel about 30 minutes up Highway 16 from Uptown to play this meticulously maintained course. Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club has proven to be a fun challenge thanks to the variety of layouts. Consistently ranking at the top of many Top 10 lists, this incredible course is open for memberships, has a luxurious clubhouse and is home to Guilties Bar & Bistro, a popular restaurant with live music and regular events. Visiting golfers can book up to five days in advance for tee times available Monday through Thursday while Friday through Sunday play is reserved for Verdict Golf members and their guests.
