There are over 500 golf courses across Indiana, many of which overlook diverse landscapes of flat plains, mountains, rock formations, and forests, offering a heady mix of playability, scenery and charm.
(Photo: Chariot Run Golf Club)
Such is the sheer diversity of its natural surroundings that’s it’s almost impossible to characterise Indiana. Suffice to say that if you find yourself on a golf course here, you’re certain to be confronted with a stunning backdrop of one description or another. Indeed, such is the appeal of the state as a golfing destination – so here are 10 of the most charming courses that Indiana has to offer.
Chariot Run
This spectacular equestrian-themed 18-hole golf course is situated 30 minutes from downtown Louisville. Featuring an exquisite American links style design, the course features enticing bentgrass greens, sparkling lakes, lush fairways, and beautiful trees. Both the serious player and the novice will appreciate course’s stirring beauty and unique challenges. In addition, guests can also enjoy the state-of-the-art clubhouse complete with a pro shop and bar & grill restaurant.
8191 Chariot Run Drive SE, Laconia
South Grove
(Photo: South Grove Golf Course)
South Grove Golf Course was built in 1902. It was designed by local architect Harry Schopp, who also designed Pleasant Run and Sarah Shank Golf Course. The name “South Grove” came from the grove of trees that lines the south side of the park on which the course is located. Although relatively flat, the course presents tight tree-lined fairways. The lay of the land takes advantage of natural features such as gently rolling hills and elevated plateaus used for green and tee sites. The course also boasts a handsome view of the Indianapolis skyline being just two miles from downtown.
1800 West 18th Street, Indianapolis
The Pete Dye Course
(Photo: Dan Perry via Flickr /
Situated within the sumptuous French Lick Resort in southern Indiana, this acclaimed course is named after designer Pete Deye, who is said to have sketched the course on a napkin after being inspired by the natural beauty of the region. The hilltop course is perched on one of Indiana’s highest points, affording panoramic views for players. In terms of playability, the course is characterised by narrow, immaculate fairways and rugged terrain. Afterwards, golfers can enjoy a relaxed lunch in the Mansion restaurant, housed in an architecturally impressive building dating back 1928 and overlooking the course.
French Lick, 8670 West, IN-56, French Lick
Sultan’s Run
(Photo: Dan Perry via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Also located within the French Lick Resort, perhaps the most notable feature at this breath-taking course is the cascading waterfall that sits behind the 18th hole, delivering an ultimate finale for golfers. Spanning more than 200 rolling acres of woods, water and wildlife, the course has gained widespread popularity for its exceptional parkland layout, rolling hills and wonderful bunkering. Meanwhile Sultan’s Bar & Grill offers the perfect way to end your round, letting you unwind amid the idyllic natural surroundings.
1490 North Meridian Road, Jasper
Rock Hollow
Built in 1995, Rock Hollow is one of the newer additions to Central Indiana’s roster of top class golf courses. Taking full advantage of its natural surroundings, the classically-designed course mixes old-growth forests, cattailed wetlands, and beautiful boulders. Ideal for golfers of all skill levels, it boasts four sets of tees and is full of subtle challenges such as raised greens with ridgelines, cross-sloped or narrow fairways, and lateral sand areas and water, all adding up to one of the best public golf experiences the state has to offer.
669 South 250 West, Peru
The Fort
A natural oasis amid urban surroundings, this 18-hole championship course offers rolling terrain and picture-postcard views that are sure to delight any golfer. Designed by Tom Liddy in 1997, the course features tree-lined fairways, rolling hills, and the undulating greens. With multiple tees of varying lengths, players of all skill levels will find a challenge here The course is set within an upscale resort complete with lodgings, practice golf facilities, a fully stocked golf shop, and an on-site restaurant.
6002 North Post Road, Indianapolis
Christmas Lake
(Photo: Christmas Lake Golf Club)
Nestled in the inviting countryside of southern Indiana and designed by renowned golf course architect Edmund Ault in 1967, this course capitalises on its idyllic landscapes with tree lined fairways, rolling hills, valleys, and sparkling lakes. As for playability, the first nine holes are relatively flat, while the last nine are very hilly and not quite as open, requiring differing strategies for each. For post-play rest and relaxation, located between the 9th and 10 holes is a clubhouse offering a comfortable gathering place for eating, drinking, swapping stories, and watching tournaments on the large screen TV.
1182 Club House Road, Santa Claus
Warren Golf Course
Widely considered one of the best public golf courses in Indiana and the Midwest, this course is nestled among 250 acres of woodlands in a wildlife sanctuary on the northern edge of the University of Notre Dame’s main campus. The course features lush, well-groomed fairways and greens and soft rolling terrain, and off in the distance golfers can enjoy views of the stunning Notre Dame Golden Dome while they play. Old world hospitality in the shape of a late 1800’s style clubhouse is on hand for post-play recuperation.
Warren Golf Course Clubhouse, 110, Notre Dame
Belterra Golf Club
(Photo: Belterra Casino Resort)
Situated within the grounds of the luxurious Belterra Casino Resort in the town of Florence, this world class championship course was thoughtfully designed to highlight the natural surroundings, winding through lakes and over 2,200 trees. The par 71 course delivers a significant challenge to players with water hazards and bunkers set amid the beautiful rolling hills. There’s also a clubhouse offering everything you need from tee-off to a post-game cocktail, including a bar and grill restaurant and a fully stocked Pro Shop.
777 Belterra Drive, Florence
Brook Hill
(Photo: Brook Hill Golf Club)
A classically-designed course perched amid the rolling hills of southern Indiana, Brook Hll features bent grass greens and tees with lush rolling bluegrass fairways. Strategically placed bunkers and crystal blue lakes present a keen challenge for both the casual and low handicap golfer. After your round, golfers can relax in the welcoming clubhouse complete with a grill restaurant, a Pro Shop, a large-screen TV, and picturesque views of the course from the outdoor decking.
11175 Fairway Lane, Brookville