Golf in Branson, Missouri
Though Branson is known for its music, museums, and watersports, those who prefer to keep from getting wet also have plenty of options for outdoor sport, including golf. The area attracts golfers nearly all year long who come to Branson to enjoy the many beautiful courses available to them in this attractive Ozarks region. Area residents tend to enjoy the sport and many visitors head to the area particularly for the golfing opportunities there. And while they golf, non-playing members of the family can take advantage of Branson’s other activities.
Branson is home to about a dozen golf courses and there are many additional courses in the areas surrounding the city. Many of the choices are appropriate for golfers of all skill levels though a few can be quite challenging for beginners. All are surrounded by the natural beauty of the area, making them a very pleasant place to play.
Fall and spring are the most popular times for golfing in Branson and if you’re arriving during those seasons, it’s often a good idea to schedule tee times in advance so that you’re not disappointed when your favorite course can’t squeeze you in. Visitors can do this on their own or contact a company that specializes in golf vacation packages, which can organize all aspects of your holiday including not only tee times but also lodging and other necessities.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular golf courses in Branson:
? Thousand Hills – Recipient of a 3.5-star rating from Golf Digest, Thousand Hills is an 18- hole, par 64 course that is open to the public. The course was designed by Robert E. Cupp and is appropriate for all skill levels. Golf pros are on staff and there’s a full service pro shop on site as well.
? Branson Creek – Named the 2009 Top Public Golf Course in Missouri by Golf Digest, Branson Creek is a newer course that also received a 4.5-star rating from the same publication. This is a par 71 course designed by acclaimed golf course architect Tom Fazio, offering 5 sets of tees, which makes it playable by golfers of all levels. A large practice facility, on-course assistance, golf instruction, rental clubs and shoes, and beverage carts are just some of the amenities available at this highly touted course.
? Pointe Royale – The golf course at Pointe Royale condominium resort is an 18-hole, par 70 course that is considered Branson’s original championship course. There are 8 water holes here and a total of 12 holes that boast some sort of water hazard, making this quite a challenging play. There’s a well-stocked pro shop on site and a nice restaurant for some after-golf refreshment. Instruction is available as well.
? Murder Rock – A course with an unusual name (ask locals about the legend behind it), Murder Rock Golf Course is a semi-private par 71 course that makes excellent use of the local landscape. There’s a sizeable pro shop on site and lessons are offered.
? Holiday Hills – This golf course is designed to suit all skill levels. Featuring 18 holes that include 6 with water hazards, the par 68 course not only prides itself in its excellent upkeep but also touts its new carts with the ProLink GPS system, which allows golfers to view distances, send for a marshal, communicate with the pro shop, and even order drinks and beverages.
? Top of the Rock – For those seeking a shorter game, Top of the Rock is a 9-hole course that is one of only 11 in the nation to be recognized as an Audubon Signature Cooperative Sanctuary Program golf course. The course is situated above Table Rock Lake and offers not only an invigorating game but also excellent views of the Ozarks region. Three sets of tees are available at this par 27 course.
Useful Links:
http://www.golflink.com/golf-courses/city.aspx?dest=Branson+MO
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