Golf has always been a welcome escape from the busy everyday routine, a chance to unwind, and an opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes while enjoying a challenging sport. In this article I share my opinions and recommendations for some of the most memorable golf courses I’ve experienced over the years. Every course mentioned here holds a special place in my heart, offering a mix of fantastic play, eye-catching scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes every round enjoyable.

The Basics: What Makes a Great Golf Course?

A great golf course goes beyond design—it offers a rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. The best courses share a few key traits:

Strategic Layout
A well-designed course challenges you to think through each shot, making the game more engaging and helping you sharpen your skills.

Consistent Maintenance
Smooth, well-kept greens and fairways ensure reliable play and reflect a course’s commitment to quality.

Natural Features
Lakes, bunkers, and native landscaping not only add beauty but enhance the challenge in a memorable way.

Thoughtful Amenities
Comfortable clubhouses, good food, and friendly, attentive staff turn a round of golf into a complete experience.

Course Recommendation #1: Exceptional Golf Experiences at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa (Galena, IL)

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa is one of the most enjoyable golf destinations I’ve experienced. With four beautifully renovated, award-winning courses totaling 63 holes, it blends classic design with modern playability. The rolling fairways and pristine greens offer just the right mix of challenge and relaxation, making each round memorable.

My friends and I have stayed in fully equipped homes right on the property—ranging from three to five bedrooms—which adds a vacation feel to every trip. The convenience of walking from your front door to the first tee, then winding down in comfort, is hard to beat.

Whether you’re playing one of the three 18-hole courses or the 9-hole layout, each round feels fresh. Add in the resort’s friendly, attentive staff, and it’s easy to see why Eagle Ridge remains a favorite among golfers.

Learn about the resort/course here:  Eagle Ridge

Book tee times here: Eagle Ridge Tee Times

Course Recommendation #2: A Tradition of Excellence with Lake Arrowhead Golf Courses (Nekoosa, WI)

Lake Arrowhead Golf Courses hold a special place in my heart, dating back to the early 1990s when my friends and I began our annual golf trips there. Back then, it was just one 18-hole course, and we’d mix things up by starting on different tees. Today, the property features two well-designed 18-hole courses that offer a great balance of challenge and playability—perfect for golfers of all skill levels.

What sets Lake Arrowhead apart is the way it blends natural beauty with top-notch maintenance. Recognized by Golf Digest with a 4½-star rating, the courses wind through sandy soil, pine forests, and scrub oak, creating a layout that feels both scenic and thoughtfully crafted. Each round here is as enjoyable as it is memorable.

Learn about the resort/course here:  Lake Arrowhead

Book tee times here: Lake Arrowhead Tee Times

Course Recommendation #3: THE CLUB AT LAC LA BELLE (Oconomowoc, WI)

The Morse family invites you to the historic course and clubhouse at Lac La Belle in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. When we redesigned our course and Club in 2018, we dedicated ourselves to honoring the rich traditions and history of the past while reimagining our course and facilities for today & beyond.

Ranked #6 Most Fun Golf Course In The U.S. By Golf Digest.
“…some of the most startling, dramatic and fun greens found anywhere.” -Ron Whitten, Golf Digest

We’re proud to have earned the distinction of The Top New Wisconsin Golf Course for 2021 by Golf Digest.

 We are open to the public, on the links and off, in our fine dining and beautiful event spaces.
The Club at Lac La Belle is a place to experience again and again.

On a personal note, I/Dennis have played and enjoyed this course several times and have the privilege of working at this beautiful course. It is a golfing experience like no other!

Course Recommendation #4: A Local Favorite, Kettle Moraine Golf Course (Dousman, WI)

Course Recommendation #3: A Local Favorite, Kettle Moraine Golf Course (Dousman, WI)

Kettle Moraine Golf Course is a local favorite for my group—and for good reason. It offers a welcoming, well-maintained layout that challenges golfers of all skill levels, all while providing scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere. It may not have the scale of a resort course, but it delivers consistently enjoyable rounds close to home.

What really sets it apart is the friendly, knowledgeable staff who are always happy to offer helpful tips. Whether you’re fine-tuning your game or just out for a casual round with friends, Kettle Moraine strikes the perfect balance between fun and challenge.

Learn about the resort/course here:  Kettle Moraine Golf

Book tee times here: Kettle Moraine Golf Tee Times

Frequently Asked Questions

Over the years, I’ve gathered a few questions that frequently come up when discussing great golf courses:

Question: What makes Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa a standout choice for golfers?
Answer: The resort offers multiple award-winning courses with a mix of challenging layouts and serene landscapes. Its full-service facilities, including comfortable accommodations and attentive staff, make it ideal for both serious rounds and leisurely visits.

Question: How have Lake Arrowhead Golf Courses evolved over the years?
Answer: These courses have grown from a single 18-hole layout into two championship courses that cater to various skill levels. Their thoughtful design and consistent upkeep have helped them maintain a high rating among players and critics alike.

Question: Why is Kettle Moraine Golf Course a popular local favorite?
Answer: Kettle Moraine offers a balanced mix of challenge and approachability. With well-maintained fairways and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a great option for both regular play and casual games with friends.

Question: When is the best time to book a tee time?
Answer: It’s best to book during off-peak hours or early in the morning. This not only helps avoid crowds but typically provides the best conditions for a relaxed round.

Wrapping Up

Golf has a unique way of turning an ordinary day into something memorable—blending beauty, strategy, and relaxation. The courses recommended here each offer something special, from the upscale experience at Eagle Ridge to the nostalgic charm of Lake Arrowhead and the friendly feel of Kettle Moraine. What they all share is a commitment to thoughtful design, great conditions, and a true respect for the game.

Whether you’re planning a getaway or looking for a regular spot to play, these courses cater to a range of tastes and skill levels. Stay open to new experiences, enjoy the journey, and let each round bring something new. After all, golf is as much about the setting and the people as it is about the score.