Washington DC is the perfect spot for golfers of all levels to get out and enjoy some quality time on the course. Whether you’re looking for a scenic city backdrop or lush rolling hills and mountains, Washington DC has something for everyone. With its wide variety of courses, there are plenty of great options to choose from when it comes to finding the perfect tee time. Here is a list of the top ten golf courses in Washington DC that will provide an enjoyable experience for any golfer.
Northwest Golf Course
Northwest Golf Course is a premier facility located in Silver Spring, MD and is regarded as one of the most difficult 18 holes in the DMV. The course is well-known for its traditional design, which was created by Ault & Clark back in 1964. With five sets of tees and an impressive layout, Northwest Golf Course appeals to golfers of all abilities.
For those looking for a more laid-back experience, the course inside 9 is a short and simple practice course that offers a relaxed environment for golfers. Northwest Golf Course is conveniently located for those residing in the DC, Bethesda, Silver Spring, or Rockville areas and offers heavily discounted rates during non-peak hours. With its championship tees offering just under 7,400 yards of pure golf, it is the longest course in Montgomery County.
Address: 575 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States
Washington Golf and Country Club
Washington Golf and Country Club stands proud as one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the Washington, DC area. The club, also known as “the club of presidents,” boasts an impressive history, being established as the oldest private country club in Virginia back in 1894. The original course design by Donald Ross in 1915, later modified by William Flynn, has recently undergone a re-imagining by Renaissance Golf Design.
With a par of 70 and length of 6,309 yards, the Washington Golf and Country Club is a challenging course that has attracted golfers of all levels for over a century. The club’s rich history and distinguished architects make it a popular destination for golf enthusiasts who crave both difficulty and elegance.
Address: 3017 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22207, United States
Blue Mash Golf Course
Blue Mash Golf Course is a stunning public course located in the DC area, designed by none other than world-renowned architect, Arthur Hills. This magnificent course offers various hole styles to battle with while providing an equally gorgeous atmosphere. Its practice facilities are nothing short of amazing, with a 10,000 square foot putting green, an all-grass tee driving range, and a short game practice area all readily available for world-class instructors to access.
The course’s name was taken from the property’s original name, ‘Blue Marsh,’ referencing the clay’s blue hue found in the marshy and thickly wooded terrain. Blue Mash Golf Course is a paradise for both new and seasoned golfers, allowing them to challenge themselves uniquely. Moreover, the course’s different tees and strategically placed bunkers cater to all skill types, making it a must-play for anyone passionate about golf.
Address: 5821 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Laytonsville, MD 20882, United States
Henson Creek Golf Course
Henson Creek Golf Course, designed by architect Ed Ault in 1963 and renovated by Bill Love, is a remarkable golf course in every aspect. The course offers breathtaking views for golfers of all skill levels, making it a premier beginner-friendly course in Fort Washington, MD. The course has a length of 2461 yards and plays to a par 33 over nine holes. The course has been designed with precision to offer a perfect mix of challenges and thrills for golf enthusiasts. Whether you want to fine-tune your skills or spend a leisurely day with friends, Henson Creek Golf Course is the perfect choice for you.
Address: 1641 Tucker Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, United States
Bull Run Country Club
Since its opening in 1998, the Bull Run Country Club’s 18-hole championship golf course has been a well-known destination for golf enthusiasts throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Designed by Rick Jacobson, a renowned golf architect, the course is spread across more than 450 acres of open land located in the foothills of Virginia’s Bull Run Mountain. Jacobson’s vision was to create a challenging yet player-friendly course that preserves the natural beauty of the land.
The course’s large landing areas, creatively defined by grass hollows, bunkers, and trees, offer a unique set of challenges for even the most daring hitters. Situated a quick drive from Washington, D.C., and conveniently located between the towns of Haymarket and Middleburg, Bull Run Country Club provides a serene escape from the bustling city and a perfect setting to sharpen your golfing skills.
Address: 15000 Bull Run Estates Dr, Haymarket, VA 20169, United States
Creighton Farms
The Creighton Farms golf course is a stunning 18-hole layout that offers a private and peaceful setting within a gated community. Located within a short 30-minute drive from Dulles International airport and situated close to the historic towns of Leesburg and Middleburg, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a game of golf in a serene environment without sacrificing convenience.
Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus in 2007, the course is a Par 72 with a length of 7365 yards. As you navigate through the course, you will encounter several challenges introduced by the small creek that winds its way through the property creating water hazards in several holes. A strategic game plan is required to overcome these obstacles, and precision plays a more significant role than power.
Address: 22050 Creighton Farms Dr, Aldie, VA 20105, United States
Rock Creek Park Golf
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life by taking a trip to Rock Creek Park’s hidden gem. Holes 18 is a public golf course that offers a peaceful and serene setting that is hard to come by in an urban area. With a par of 65 and a length of 4951 yards, this course presents a challenge for golfers of all levels. Designed by legendary architects Bill Love and William S. Flynn in 1926, Holes 18 has been a beloved course for generations.
The mature trees that surround the course block out city noise and buildings, allowing golfers to focus on their game while being immersed in nature. Whether it’s for a quick 9-hole loop or a leisurely 5-hole round, come experience the beauty of Holes 18 and make lasting memories.
Address: 6100 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20011, United States
East Potomac Golf Course
East Potomac is truly a unique gem among golf courses, as it is one of the only courses located directly inside the District of Columbia. Not only does this offer unparalleled accessibility for D.C. residents and visitors alike, but the course also boasts some of the most spectacular views of the city imaginable. Golfers here are treated to sights of the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Naval College, among other landmarks.
Beyond the stunning views, East Potomac offers a well-maintained course with a walkable layout, fair greens, and lovely fairways. It’s no wonder that this public/municipal course has been a beloved part of the D.C. golf scene since its construction by architects Robert White and Walter Travis in 1916. With 18 holes and a par of 72, spanning a total length of 6599 yards, East Potomac is a must-visit destination for golfers eager to experience the beauty of D.C. firsthand.
Address: 972 Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States
Potomac Shores Golf Club
Golfers seeking a challenge and a one-of-a-kind experience need look no further than Potomac Shores. Located in Potomac Shores, VA, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course is the only public one of its kind in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and it lives up to its reputation as one of the best in the DC area.
Its undulating fairways and uniquely designed holes offer a golfing experience unlike any other in the state. Managed by Troon Golf, Potomac Shores is rated as one of the most difficult courses around, playing to a rating and slope of 74.7/144. This course debuted in 2014 and boasts a length of 7020 yards, making it a must-play for any serious golfer looking to put their abilities to the test.
Address: 1750 Dunnington Pl, Dumfries, VA 22026, United States
The University of Maryland Golf Course
The University of Maryland’s golf course is a must-play for golf enthusiasts. Built in 1958 and designed by George W. Cobb, the course stretches over 7,000 yards of lush greens and serene landscapes. It is also no stranger to outside events, giving people within the surrounding community the perfect opportunity to experience this remarkable course.
As a semi-private course, tee times should be booked far in advance, as both locals and visitors cannot get enough of this gem. Whether you are a novice or an experienced player, the course’s par 71 promises an enjoyable round of golf. In 2008, Bill Love added some modifications which just added on to the brilliance of the course. Truly, the University of Maryland’s golf course is a hidden treasure that golfers should add to their list when in College Park.
Address: 3800 Golf Course Road, College Park, MD 20742, United States
Conclusion
Golfers near the Washington D.C. metropolitan area have access to a range of fantastic courses catered to every skill level and experience. From public/municipal courses like Holes 18 and East Potomac, to semi-private gems like the University of Maryland’s golf course or Jack Nicklaus-designed Potomac Shores, golfers of all skill levels will find something to enjoy. Take some time and explore these courses to experience the beauty of D.C. firsthand!
