I have been a fan of the game of golf for decades. My dad got my brother and me interested in the sport. He belonged to a local country club in Anamosa and enrolled my brother and me in the junior golf program. We took lessons and learned the rules of the game of golf. I played recreationally through high school, college, and into early adulthood. But then, I stepped away.

In my 40s, the game of golf found its way back to me. I had remained a fan of the game, but began to play a round or two each year with some friends. Then last year, I played more rounds of golf than I had played in years. I’ll break that record this summer. Golf is relaxing to me. Frustrating? Of course! But I love being outdoors at the course. Trying to better my score from last time. And if you’re having a bad round, all it takes is a couple of good shots to make you want to come back for more!

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So where do I play? This year I’ve golfed at courses including Gardner in Marion, Ellis in Cedar Rapids, Kernoustie in Mt. Vernon, and Wildcat in Shellsburg. All fun courses for a variety of reasons. But what are some of the nicest public golf courses you can play in Iowa? I’m glad you asked!

10 Best Public Golf Courses in Iowa

Tee it up at one of these fantastic public golf courses in Iowa.

Gallery Credit: Ryan Brainard

Golf is a game you can play at any age. You compete against yourself and the course. I’m glad that golf found me again. I hope it sticks around this time.

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Discover where you can find the best access in the country for your pick of courses, the unique terrain that lends itself to world-class golf, and what makes select clubs noteworthy.

Gallery Credit: Michael Leonard

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Gallery Credit: Madison Troyer

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