Our Favorite Golf Courses in the US Midwest

Hidden Gems: Underrated Golf Courses in the Midwest Worth Visiting

The Midwest is a treasure trove of beautiful, yet often overlooked, golf courses. Tucked away from the more popular tourist destinations, these hidden gems offer stunning landscapes, challenging play, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Here’s a look at some underrated golf courses in the Midwest, along with outfit ideas for men, women, and kids tailored to the local climate at each location.

The Preserve Golf Course at Honey Creek Resort (Moravia, Iowa)

Nestled along the shores of Rathbun Lake, The Preserve Golf Course offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills and well-manicured fairways. This course is a haven for golfers looking to escape into nature. While golfing is incredibly popular amongst Midwesterners, you'll find peace and solitude here. 

Climate: Summers are warm and humid, while spring and fall are mild. Layering is key for unpredictable weather.

Outfit Ideas:

• Men: A moisture-wicking polo, lightweight shorts, and a windbreaker. Add a cap for sun protection.
• Women: A sleeveless golf dress with a light jacket for the cooler mornings, and a visor to shield from the sun. 
• Kids: Breathable t-shirts, comfortable shorts, and a hoodie or light sweater for added warmth in the mornings or evenings.

Pictured below, we have a woman sporting a light pink sleeveless polo dress and a young boy dressed in a boys blue and pink striped polo. A perfect mommy and me outfit to hit the course in the heat!

Wild Horse Golf Club (Gothenburg, Nebraska)

Known for its links-style design, Wild Horse Golf Club offers wide fairways and challenging greens. The expansive prairie landscape provides a unique golfing experience.

Climate: Summers can be hot with temperatures often reaching into the 90s, while spring and fall are moderate.

Outfit Ideas:

• Men: Light-colored polo shirts to reflect the sun, breathable golf pants, and a sun hat.
• Women: A golf skirt paired with a sleeveless polo and a wide-brimmed hat. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
• Kids: Lightweight polo shirts, shorts, and a baseball cap. Ensure they stay hydrated with plenty of water.

The Harvester (Rhodes, Iowa)

As Iowa’s top-ranked golf course, The Harvester features undulating terrain, scenic water hazards, and impeccably maintained greens. It’s a must-visit for avid golfers. Surrounded by cows, corn, and rolling hills - you'll find something to look at on your trip in. 

Climate: Similar to The Preserve, summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Summers can be really humid as well! Be sure to bring moisture wicking, breathable clothing.

Outfit Ideas:

• Men: A moisture-wicking polo, golf shorts, and a light rain jacket just in case a downpour comes through (can't beat classic midwest storms).
• Women: A stylish golf dress with a quarter-zip pullover for added warmth, and a visor.
• Kids: Comfortable and breathable t-shirts, boys shorts, girls skorts, and a waterproof jacket to stay dry during sudden showers.

Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, Illinois)

Eagle Ridge Resort is home to four courses, with The General being the most famous for its dramatic elevation changes and scenic views of the Galena Territory. It’s a true gem for those seeking a memorable golfing experience. As someone who used to work here, it holds a place near and dear to my heart. Plus, there's a zipline down the road, boats to rent, a full pool with plenty of games, and more for full family fun.

Climate: Galena experiences warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and fall are mild but can be unpredictable - especially when it comes to sudden storms.

Outfit Ideas:

• Men: A polo shirt with a pullover for cooler mornings, lightweight pants or shorts depending on the season, and a cap or hat.
• Women: A golf skirt or pants with a breathable polo, a light sweater or jacket, and a visor or hat for sun protection.
• Kids: Comfortable t-shirts or polo shirts, shorts or pants, and a hoodie or light jacket to layer up or down as needed.

Lawsonia Golf Course (Green Lake, Wisconsin)

Lawsonia offers two unique 18-hole courses: The Links and The Woodlands. The Links provides an open, wind-swept experience, while The Woodlands offers a more secluded, tree-lined challenge. This popular complex brings in a variety of players, with something special for everyone. Plus, the drive in will consist of beautiful forested hills. The course sits right next to Green Lake -  so consider camping with the whole family for a full Wisconsin experience!

Climate: Cool springs, warm summers, and crisp falls are typical. Morning dew can make the early rounds chilly.  In the summer, be sure to head out early in the morning to beat the drowning humidity Wisconsin often endures! As a former Wisconsinite - I can vouch for just how muggy and buggy it can get.

Outfit Ideas:

• Men: A polo shirt with an insulating vest for early Spring and Fall mornings, long pants, and a cap. Breathable polo shirts and chino shorts with lots of sunscreen for the summer.
• Women: A long-sleeve golf shirt with a vest (for chilly mornings) and comfortable golf pants. A hat or visor for sun protection.
• Kids: Long-sleeve t-shirts, layered with a fleece or vest, and a hat to keep warm during cooler mornings.

Exploring these underrated golf courses in the Midwest not only provides a great golfing experience but also a chance to enjoy the region's natural beauty and serenity. Remember to dress appropriately for the local climate to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable game. Whether you're planning a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, these hidden gems are worth adding to your golfing itinerary.