Home » America Travel News » Birmingham, Alabama: A Premier Golf Destination on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
Published on
August 29, 2025
Birmingham, Alabama, has long been important for industry and culture in the American South. Recently, it has been building a new identity focused on golf. The city gained recognition as a top golf destination in June 2025 when it hosted the 16th North American Golf Tourism Convention, organised by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). This event brought together over 300 golf tour operators from 33 countries and highlighted the area’s rich golfing history and growing golf tourism industry.
The 2025 convention marked an important moment in promoting Birmingham as a leading golfing destination, especially for international visitors. This accomplishment places the city on the global golf tourism map, a status it has worked hard to achieve through investments in top-notch courses, excellent hospitality, and a strong golf infrastructure.
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail: A Major Draw for Golf Enthusiasts
Central to Birmingham’s rise in the golf tourism world is its proximity to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, a collection of 11 championship-calibre golf courses scattered across the state of Alabama. Named after the legendary golf course designer Robert Trent Jones Sr, the trail spans 468 holes of golf, making it one of the largest collections of championship golf courses in the world. These courses are not just about playing a round of golf; they are designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels while providing an unforgettable experience.
In Birmingham, two standout courses from the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail attract golfers from all over the world: Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge. These courses offer a range of layouts and challenges, ensuring that no two rounds of golf are ever quite the same. For international tourists attending the IAGTO convention, these courses offered an incredible opportunity to experience world-class golf amidst the Southern charm of Alabama. Visitors were able to explore these scenic golf courses, learn about the area’s golf culture, and engage in business discussions that would influence the future of golf tourism.
Ross Bridge: A Global Golf Destination
One of the crown jewels of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is the Ross Bridge Golf Resort, located just outside Birmingham. With its sweeping views of the valley and pristine fairways, this 18-hole course has earned recognition as one of the longest golf courses in the world. Measuring over 8,000 yards, Ross Bridge offers a formidable test for golfers, combining a challenging layout with breathtaking scenery.
The course is set against the backdrop of the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, a luxury hotel that is part of the resort. This 259-room property offers upscale accommodations, a resort-style pool, an award-winning spa, and dining options that cater to both golfers and tourists looking for a relaxing getaway. The hotel’s prime location next to the golf course makes it an ideal base for visitors. Whether golfers are looking to play a round or relax after their game, the resort provides everything one might need for a luxurious and memorable stay.
The Country Club of Birmingham: A Historic and Prestigious Course
While the Ross Bridge course is perhaps the most well-known golf destination in Birmingham, the City also boasts another historical gem: The Country Club of Birmingham. This exclusive private club has two courses, with the West Course often cited as one of the best in the country. Originally designed by Donald Ross and later modified by Robert Trent Jones Sr, the West Course is known for its classic layout, which challenges even the most experienced golfers.
Ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the United States by Golf Digest, the Country Club of Birmingham offers a rare glimpse into the region’s deep golfing history. It’s a course that attracts not only local golfers but also those from across the country and beyond. The club’s distinguished membership and storied legacy make it a true treasure for golf enthusiasts.
Birmingham’s Commitment to Golf Tourism
Birmingham’s investment in its golf infrastructure has not gone unnoticed. In addition to the convention, the city’s efforts in promoting golf tourism have been recognised through awards and accolades. In 2025, the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB), along with the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, received the prestigious ‘Outstanding Contribution to Golf Tourism’ award from IAGTO. This recognition underscores the city’s role in reshaping the golf tourism landscape in Alabama.
The GBCVB has worked tirelessly to position Birmingham as a premier destination for both professional and amateur golfers. Their initiatives, coupled with the Alabama Tourism Department’s efforts, have helped Birmingham attract international attention as a golf tourism hub. The city’s golf offerings are now part of Alabama’s broader tourism campaign, bringing in thousands of golf travellers each year.
Beyond the Fairways: What Birmingham Offers Tourists
While golf is undoubtedly the focal point for many visitors, Birmingham offers much more to explore. The city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and dynamic culinary landscape ensure that there is something for everyone. After a day on the course, visitors can explore the downtown area, which is home to an array of museums, art galleries, and theatres. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the 16th Street Baptist Church, and the Birmingham Museum of Art are just a few of the cultural gems that await visitors.
Birmingham’s food scene is equally exciting, with a variety of southern restaurants serving up everything from barbecue to seafood and fine dining. A visit to the city would be incomplete without experiencing its renowned culinary offerings, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the South.
The Future of Golf Tourism in Birmingham
As Birmingham strengthens its position in golf tourism, the city’s future looks promising. More international golf tourists arrive each year, and Birmingham is dedicated to offering excellent golfing experiences. This makes the city a key hub for golf tourism in the United States. The success of the 2025 IAGTO convention has opened the door for more international events, enhancing its reputation as a top golfing destination.
For golf fans seeking a place that blends outstanding courses with Southern hospitality, Birmingham, Alabama, provides a unique experience. Whether it’s the challenge of Ross Bridge, the history of the Country Club of Birmingham, or the friendly welcome from the local community, there has never been a better time to visit this emerging golf destination.
[Image Source: City of Birmingham Official Website]
