Exploring Des Moines: The Best Golf Courses and Facilities for Every Golfer

Des Moines, Iowa, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a golfing getaway, but the city offers a range of golf courses and top-notch facilities that rival any major destination. From public greens with affordable rates to prestigious private clubs, Des Moines is an excellent spot for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a casual round or a challenging course to hone your game, the city has something for you.

Here’s a closer look at some of the best golf courses and facilities Des Moines offers.

A Rich Golfing Tradition in Des Moines

Des Moines has built a solid reputation as a city that appreciates the game of golf. With a rich history stretching over a century, the city’s golf courses blend traditional designs with modern challenges. The rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and unique layouts set the stage for a golfing experience that can accommodate every player level.

In addition to offering well-designed courses, Des Moines’ golf community is vibrant and growing. Local clubs frequently host events and tournaments, adding to the city’s thriving golfing culture. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, the city's courses provide opportunities to improve and enjoy the game.

Des Moines Golf and Country Club: A Premier Experience

For those seeking a premier golfing experience, the Des Moines Golf and Country Club is hard to beat. This exclusive private club has two championship courses that offer beauty and challenge. The club is a gem in the city's heart with its meticulously maintained grounds and inviting atmosphere.

The Des Moines Golf and Country Club has hosted multiple prestigious events, including the 1999 and 2017 Solheim Cup, cementing its reputation as a world-class venue. The club’s Pete Dye-designed courses feature a mix of strategically placed hazards and long, winding fairways, making it a challenging and rewarding round for experienced golfers. Beyond the courses, the club boasts state-of-the-art practice facilities, a driving range, and a comfortable clubhouse with excellent dining options.

In addition to its golfing offerings, Des Moines Golf and Country Club is also a great place for socializing. The club’s wide range of amenities, including fitness centers and family-friendly activities, create a welcoming environment for golfers looking for more than just a place to play.

Waveland Golf Course: Affordable and Accessible

Waveland Golf Course is one of the most popular public courses in Des Moines. It opened in the 1920s and offers a welcoming environment for golfers on a budget. The course combines historical charm with modern updates, making it an attractive choice for locals and visitors.

The course is relatively flat, with wide fairways and a challenging layout requiring strategic thinking and skillful shot-making. Although shorter than some of the city's more exclusive courses, Waveland offers a rewarding round of golf, particularly for beginners or those looking to improve their short game. The course is open year-round, and its convenient location makes it easy for golfers to fit in a round before exploring other parts of Des Moines.

In addition to its affordability, Waveland Golf Course is well-equipped with practice areas, including a driving range and putting green. The course is also home to a pro shop and a cozy clubhouse where golfers can relax after their round. If you’re looking for a casual, no-frills experience, Waveland provides an excellent option.

Copper Creek Golf Club: Scenic and Challenging

Just outside of Des Moines, in Pleasant Hill, lies Copper Creek Golf Club. This public course is known for its scenic views and challenging layout, with rolling hills and strategically placed water hazards. Designed to test every aspect of a player’s game, Copper Creek is a favorite among locals for its well-maintained grounds and variety of hole designs.

The course is highly regarded for its design and overall quality, offering a challenge for even the most experienced golfers. The bunkers and water features provide additional difficulty, while the overall layout offers generous landing areas for those who choose accuracy over power. Whether playing casually or participating in one of the club’s many tournaments, Copper Creek provides an exciting golfing experience.

In addition to the course, Copper Creek also offers excellent amenities, including a well-stocked pro shop, driving range, and a variety of lessons and clinics. The club's welcoming atmosphere ensures that golfers of all levels feel right at home.

Bright Grandview Golf Course: A Hidden Gem

Located just a short drive from downtown Des Moines, Bright Grandview Golf Course is an affordable, well-maintained course that provides an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all levels. This 18-hole public course features a mix of open fairways and elevation changes, keeping it exciting and competitive.

The course is often praised for its excellent condition and for being one of the most affordable options in Des Moines. Its wide fairways allow for more forgiving tee shots, while the greens present a challenge, especially for those looking to master their putting. Bright Grandview is a great place to improve your game while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere that defines many of Des Moines' public courses.

Bright Grandview offers a driving range, putting green, and chipping areas for those who want to practice before hitting the course. The course's relaxed vibe makes it a perfect choice for a fun round without the pressure of high-stakes competition.

Exceptional Golfing Facilities

Des Moines also has various facilities to help golfers improve their game. Many of the city's golf courses feature driving ranges, putting greens, and other practice areas, so you can fine-tune your skills before hitting the course. Additionally, several clubs offer golf lessons and clinics for players looking to take their game to the next level.

The city also boasts several golf shops, where players can find a wide selection of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories. From top-of-the-line clubs to comfortable shoes, the shops in Des Moines have everything you need to enhance your golfing experience.

For golfers looking for a more structured approach to improvement, there are also golf academies and instructors throughout the area who can provide personalized coaching to suit their needs. Whether perfecting their swing or working on their short game, Des Moines has plenty of options to help them reach their full potential.

Des Moines is a hidden gem for golfers looking for variety, value, and quality courses. With its mix of public and private classes and excellent facilities for practicing and improving your game, the city offers a unique golfing experience. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round at a prestigious private club or a more casual experience at a public course, Des Moines has something to offer every golfer. So, if you find yourself in Iowa’s capital, pack your clubs and experience the best of Des Moines’ golfing scene.