Discover three of my favorite Grand Rapids golf courses, each offering a unique experience—whether you're looking for a competitive round, a budget-friendly option, or the perfect spot for beginners.
Here in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we're lucky to have no shortage of amazing golf courses. From beginner-friendly tracks to challenging layouts that test every club in the bag, there's something for everyone. That being said, I wanted to take a moment to sit down and share a few of my personal favorites. I like them each for different reasons, and depending on the occasion, I’ll find myself gravitating toward one over another. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into three courses I always look forward to playing.
18-Hole Weekend Price: $85
Tee Times: thornapplepointe.com
Dress Code: Shorts, tucked-in shirt, golf shoes.
If you're looking for a high-caliber golfing experience without leaving the Grand Rapids area, Thornapple Pointe Golf Course is where you’ll want to be. This course offers a full-scale, championship-style layout, perfect for a more competitive round with friends. What I love most about Thornapple Pointe is how it demands a complete game. You’ll find yourself using every club in the bag, from driver to mid-irons, as the course stretches out and offers plenty of long, challenging holes.
Even though I’m a long hitter, I don’t even venture to the back tees here. No matter which tee box you choose, the course gives you the chance to go big on some holes, making for a rewarding match. You won’t find any pitch-and-putt style golf here—this is the real deal.
Thornapple Pointe delivers when it comes to course conditions. The turf is always great, and the carts are equipped with GPS. Expect a beverage cart to roll around and bathrooms conveniently located on holes 6 and 15.
One pro tip: if you’re thinking of hitting range balls before your round, you’ll have to buy those separately. The range is a bit out of the way from the clubhouse, so I often skip it and head to the chipping and putting areas instead to warm up.
You shouldn't go into this round expecting to fly through a quick 18 holes. Thornapple Pointe is popular, so there will likely be groups in front of and behind you. My advice: embrace the pace. Grab a High Noon, enjoy the scenery, and savor the experience.
18-Hole Weekend Price: $63
Tee Times: saskatoongolf.com
Dress Code: T-shirt and shorts, no frills necessary.
Sometimes, you’re not in the mood for an $85 round, and that's where Saskatoon Golf Course comes in. It’s perfect for those days when you want to get out for a round without breaking the bank. Whether you’re playing with less experienced golfers or looking to fit a round into a busy day, Saskatoon offers a great balance of affordability and fun.
While it may not have the high-end polish of some other courses, Saskatoon delivers where it counts. The turf is in good condition, the carts are perfectly functional, and the clubhouse has everything you need—no unnecessary frills. What makes Saskatoon stand out is its variety. With 45 holes spread across five different 9-hole courses, there’s always a new combination to play. I’ve been there multiple times and still haven’t covered all the options. The tee-time system color-codes the nine-hole courses, and you can see what you're booking when you make your reservation. I’ve never had any complaints, no matter which combination I end up playing.
Saskatoon is also where I like to bring beginners or casual golfers. It’s a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that makes people feel comfortable without being overwhelmed by the game. Wide fairways, fewer hazards, and an approachable vibe make it an ideal spot to introduce someone to the game. More on this below since I think it's worth talking about.
18-Hole Weekend Price: $99
Tee Times: pilgrimsrun.com
Dress Code: Nicer golf shirt and you took the time to clean your shoes before coming.
If you’re looking for a golfing experience that feels like a mini-getaway, Pilgrim’s Run Golf Course is your go-to. Located about 45 minutes north of Grand Rapids, Pilgrim’s Run gives off that “up north” vibe, even though you’re still within a day’s driving distance. This course feels special—a little quieter, more secluded, and surrounded by nature. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the game, this is the place to do it.
Pilgrim’s Run is the kind of course where you plan ahead. It’s not a spur-of-the-moment round; you’re making your tee time in advance, confirming the group, and making a day of it. I recommend arriving at least an hour before your tee time to take advantage of the full experience. They include range balls with your round, and they’re usually tucked in the back of your cart. Head over to the range and take some time to loosen up before you get to the first tee. Spend the last 15 minutes on the putting green—it’ll help you adjust to the greens and boost your chances of having a great round.
This course offers a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. It’s not going to beat you up, but it will keep you engaged. The tree-lined fairways and occasional deer crossing give it that tranquil, out-of-town feel. If you’re looking for a memorable round, Pilgrim’s Run is a treat worth the drive.
The game of golf has exploded in popularity in recent years, and I love seeing new people pick it up. Back when I was in high school, only the kids on the golf team had clubs. These days, there’s a new wave of recreational golfers, many of them inspired by the YouTube golf community, which has helped make golf feel more accessible to a broader audience. I'm a huge fan of this. I thought the PGA Tour endorsing them by hosting the Creator Classic at East Lake in 2024 was great.
When I’m taking a beginner out for the first time, Saskatoon is my top choice. It’s unpretentious and welcoming—a far cry from the intimidating, high-end courses that can make a new player feel out of place. With wide fairways and fewer hazards, Saskatoon lets beginners enjoy the game without feeling frustrated by lost balls or blown-up scores. It’s all about building their confidence and making sure they want to come back for more.
I grew up in Florida and moved to Grand Rapids in high school. I was shocked by the number of great public courses here. We're blessed with great options, so it made this article a bit of a challenge to write. This was my first time writing a golf-based article, so I figured I’d just speak from the heart and see where it goes. I know I only covered three courses here, so I see the opportunity to write more articles in the near future on this topic.
At the end of the day, golf is about more than just the score. It’s about spending four hours with friends, disconnected from the world, out in nature, enjoying the experience together. So, next time you head out, take a deep breath, soak it all in, and have some fun. Leave the stress to the guys with their names on their bag playing for a paycheck. Hand me a beer.
