Alabama offers a golf trip like no other. The best towns in Alabama for a golf trip cater to every skill level and aesthetic preference.
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Alabama has a varied topography that includes high mountainous ridges, deep valleys, foothills of the Appalachians, flat coastal plains, river deltas, lakes, swamps, and coastline.
But it’s not just the stunning natural surroundings that make Alabama a golfing paradise. The state is home to a rich golfing heritage, with courses designed by legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Sr., Jerry Pate, and Perry Maxwell.
Beyond the exceptional golfing, Alabama’s renowned Southern hospitality will add a warm and welcoming touch to your trip.
Experience the genuine friendliness of the locals, enjoy delicious Southern cuisine, explore vibrant towns and cities, and discover the unique history and cultural heritage of the Heart of Dixie.
1. Huntsville Alabama: Great Town to Tee Off
Begin a golfing journey like no other, in Huntsville Alabama. This extraordinary town seamlessly blends natural beauty, technological marvels, and exceptional golf courses for an unforgettable experience.
The Hampton Cove Golf Course, part of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, offers three picturesque courses—Highlands, River, and Short Course—that combine lush fairways, strategic water hazards, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
In addition to Hampton Cove there are more than 15 other golf courses in Huntsville Alabama. Some of the better known are:
- The Ledges
- Valley Hill Country Club
- Sunset Landing
- Huntsville Country Club
There are quite a few other things to do in Huntsville Alabama, beyond golf. Pay homage to Huntsville’s rich scientific and art heritage. The iconic U.S. Space & Rocket Center showcases space exploration, while the Huntsville Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of fine art.
Monte Sano State Park has options for outdoor activities like hiking and camping amongst breathtaking valley views. On the other hand, the Huntsville Botanical Garden is a tranquil retreat with its meticulously landscaped gardens and serene walking paths.
Savor the culinary delights of Huntsville’s vibrant food scene; a fusion of Southern comfort food and innovative cuisine. Sit down for some Southern comfort food at Walton’s Southern Table or celebrate at Yellowhammer Brewing!
If you have never played golf in Alabama, Huntsville is a great place to start your Alabama golf trip.
2. Muscle Shoals Alabama: Golf Bliss by the River
Nestled on the Tennessee River’s banks, Muscle Shoals is as enticing to golf enthusiasts as it is to music fans. This small and charming town is a melody of natural beauty, challenging courses, and rich musical heritage.
Muscle Shoals boasts the esteemed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at The Shoals, featuring two championship courses: Fighting Joe and Schoolmaster.
The Fighting Joe course honors golf legend Joe Louis, offering river views, undulating greens, strategic bunkering, and water features. The Schoolmaster course, inspired by the region’s educational history, provides picturesque fairways and stunning views.
Do not be disappointed if you do not get a chance to play at the Shoals. There are several other pretty nice golf courses in Muscle Shoals or its twin town Florence. Some worth a look are:
- Turtle Point Yacht & Country Club
- Cypress Lakes Course
- Blackberry Trail Course
Beyond golf, there are many things to do in Muscle Shoals Alabama. Even if you are not a die-hard music fan you must visit the iconic FAME Recording Studios, the W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum, and Library, and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.
There are a plethora of outdoor activities, especially water activities, that you could participate in, during your golf trip to Muscle Shoals Alabama.
The TVA Rockpile Recreation Area with the impressive Wilson Dam has hiking and fishing. A little further away, Joe Wheeler State Park lets you go boating and birdwatching
You could even play some golf on the waterfront course of The General Golf Course.
Muscle Shoals’ culinary scene reflects Southern flavors. A chance to have lunch or dinner at Odette is not to be missed. Get your fill of delicious dishes like steak frites, shrimp and grits, etc.
3. Gadsden Alabama: Riverside Golf Haven
Gadsden Alabama invites golf enthusiasts with its captivating riverfront views, scenic landscapes and serene fairways. This hidden gem combines natural beauty, challenging courses, and a welcoming ambiance for a memorable golfing experience.
The 4 courses at Silver Lakes, a part of the Robert Jones Golf Trail, are of course the aces in Gadsden’s golfing hand. Each of the four, aptly named as the Heartbreaker, Backbreaker, Mindbreaker, and Short course, offer a unique blend of scenery and playability.
Moreover, Gadsden has a few other remarkable golf courses catering to all skill levels. Twin Bridges Golf Club stands out, offering two scenic 18-hole courses along the Coosa River. Gadsden Country Club, an esteemed private club, boasts meticulously maintained fairways and classic design.
There are other things to do in Gadsden Alabama as well, to complement your golf trip. Explore the enchanting downtown area, discovering unique boutiques, local eateries, and the town’s rich history.
Nature lovers can lose themselves in the picturesque wonders of Noccalula Falls Park, featuring a magnificent 90-foot waterfall, hiking trails, and picnic spots. The Coosa Riverwalk offers panoramic river views and an escape into tranquility.
From Southern comfort food to international cuisines, local restaurants serve mouthwatering dishes reflecting both local flavors and global influences.
Embrace the warmth of the community and participate in lively music performances and cultural celebrations, when possible, to add even more value to your Gadsden golf trip.
4. Birmingham Alabama: Golf Dreams Come True
Located in the heart of Alabama, Birmingham is a vibrant city that offers an exceptional golfing experience. With its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving golf scene, this town has to be there on your golf trip bucket list.
Among Birmingham’s fine golf courses, one standout is the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley. You are sure to appreciate the amazing beauty of the Ridge, the Valley and the Back Yard, sculpted from the peaks and valleys of the Appalachians.
Another noteworthy course is the Highland Park Golf Course. Designed by renowned architect Bob Cupp, this historic gem offers a picturesque setting and a challenging layout.
But there are many other things to do in Birmingham Alabama, besides playing golf. For outdoor enthusiasts, Oak Mountain State Park has several mountain bike and hiking trails, fishing spots, and a relaxing beach.
After a day on the greens, immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture by visiting world-class museums like the Birmingham Museum of Art and the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.
Liven up your nightlife and explore the vibrant culinary scene. Why not celebrate a great game with a night out at The Highlands Bar & Grill, an award-winning restaurant that serves modern American cuisine influenced by French and Southern cooking traditions.
5. Hoover Alabama: Fairways & Friendships
Hoover Alabama is a suburb of Birmingham, where exceptional golf courses and a strong sense of community converge.
Ross Bridge is an important course in the famous Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Nestled in the enchanting Shannon Valley, Ross Bridge Golf Course in Hoover, Alabama, is a golfer’s dream.
Carved into the rolling terrain, it features ten holes along picturesque lakes connected by a mesmerizing 80-foot waterfall.
Hoover Alabama has other locations where you can not only play on an excellent golf course, but also be part of a welcoming community. The Hoover Country Club leads the pack in such establishments.
There are many things to do in Hoover Alabama, besides playing golf. For one you can enjoy all that Birmingham has to offer as it is just a short drive away.
Hoover itself has The Riverchase Galleria, a premier shopping center, that is home to top-notch boutique shops and upscale dining.
Outdoor enthusiasts can opt for easy hikes in Moss Rock Preserve or go for more challenging activities such as mountain biking, fishing, boating and camping adventures in Oak Mountain State Park.
Food lovers will be delighted by Hoover’s diverse culinary scene. From amazingly fresh seafood to perfectly cooked meats, Hoover’s restaurants have them all. Jubilee Joe’s and Jim N Nick’s BBQ are just two of the many that you must feast in!
6. Auburn-Opelika Alabama: Reignite Your Youth
The twin towns of Auburn-Opelika invites golf enthusiasts with dynamic fairways, spirited hospitality, and an exuberant college culture.
This captivating destination combines scenic beauty, championship courses, and a cheerful ambiance, ideal for an unforgettable golf trip.
The renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at The Grand National offers two championship courses: the Lake Course and the Links Course.
The Lake Course challenges players with water on 12 of its 18 holes, delivering a visually captivating experience. The Links Course provides a Scottish-style feel with wide fairways, pot bunkers, and undulating greens that demand precision.
Another option for some memorable golf is Auburn University Club, designed by architect Bill Bergin. It is a meticulously crafted course that is challenging and yet enjoyable to play.
Saugahatchee Country Club with challenging layouts and scenic views is yet another golfing option.
Beyond golf, there are quite a few exciting things to do in Auburn-Opelika Alabama. The charming streets of Downtown Auburn are lined with shops, restaurants, and local boutiques.
Experience the university’s history, traditions and cool vibes at landmarks like Toomer’s Corner and the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.
Chewacla State Park has numerous hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picturesque picnic spots for active, nature loving seniors.
Auburn-Opelika’s culinary scene reflects its vibrant spirit. Indulge in regional specialties and savor the flavors unique to this college town.
7. Prattville Alabama: Riverside Golfing Splendor
Prattville Alabama, north of the state capital Montgomery, sits on the banks of the Alabama river which makes it a terrific location for building picturesque golf courses. During your golf trip to this lovely town you will experience scenic beauty, challenging courses, and a warm atmosphere.
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill is the most famous and sought after course. It consists of three championship courses: the Judge, the Legislator, and the Senator.
Each course is characterized by meticulously maintained fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed water hazards, providing both challenges and stunning views.
Prattville Country Club is a premier golf course where you may want to play a round or two. The course is both challenging and enjoyable. The club also has a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse.
Beyond golf, the things to do in Prattville Alabama are exploring its rich history. Make sure to take a leisurely stroll through downtown’s picturesque streets, lined with beautifully restored historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
Nature lovers will appreciate a walk through the Wilderness Park which has trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots along the Alabama River.
Prattville’s culinary scene delights with Southern cuisine and international flavors. From barbecue joints to charming cafes, indulge in a variety of culinary delights. And in any case the huge metropolis of Montgomery is just across the river.
8. Greenville Alabama: Golf Close to Nature
Greenville Alabama, 40 miles south of Montgomery is best known for its stunning and picturesque golf courses.
Greenville boasts the esteemed Cambrian Ridge, a part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. With 27 awe-inspiring holes, spread over 3 courses, Cambrian Ridge promises an unforgettable golfing experience.
- The Canyon nine, carved from former hunting grounds adorned with historic deer blinds, presents a thrilling target-style golf experience.
- The Loblolly nine, with its rolling fairways, majestic pines, and water-fronted greens, exudes an Augusta-like elegance.
- The Sherling nine starts on a high and gracefully descends along the picturesque Sherling Lake, culminating in a dramatic final hole.
Another option for golfing is the Greenville Country Club. In many ways golfing here is a very satisfying social experience as well. The club has many other amenities that everyone can participate in and thoroughly enjoy.
Outdoor adventure seekers can find a few things to do in Greenville Alabama, especially in the nearby Conecuh National Forest. The forest has every possible activity imaginable; from biking to boating.
Greenville’s culinary scene reflects Southern roots with delightful dining options. Indulge in their hospitality and savor Greenville’s culinary delights.
9. Dothan Alabama: Golf & Tranquility
Experience the best of Southern hospitality and exceptional golfing in Dothan, Alabama. This hidden gem offers serene landscapes, top-notch courses, and a vibrant cultural scene for a memorable and relaxing golf trip.
The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Highland Oaks stands out with three championship courses: Highlands, Magnolia, Marshwood and a Short Course. Each course has 9 holes making up a total of 36 holes.
Though not as prestigious as Highland Oaks, Dothan Country Club is another alternative for playing golf. It has the advantage of being a meticulously designed 18-hole golf course, right in the heart of the town.
Further, this private club offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities, beyond golfing, to its members.
Here are a few of the things to do in Dothan Alabama, after your game of golf.
- Delight in the region’s agricultural heritage at Dothan Area Botanical Gardens
- Appreciate local art & culture at the Wiregrass Museum of Art, featuring captivating exhibitions
- Get a workout on Forever Wild Trails, known for scenic hiking and biking through picturesque woodlands
- Enjoy fishing, boating, and watersports at Lake Eufaula and the Chattahoochee River
- Experience the local community through farmers’ markets and live music performances
- Indulge in Dothan’s diverse culinary scene, based on fresh local produce
10. Mobile Alabama: Golf on the Bay
Mobile Alabama is a captivating destination for any visitor but it is just perfect for a golf trip. There are so many stunning courses in this town that you will be spoilt for choice.
This vibrant Alabama city offers a harmonious blend of golfing opportunities, coastal splendor, and Southern hospitality. It has to be on the itinerary of any Alabama golf trip.
Magnolia Grove, part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, stands out as a premier facility with two championship courses—the Crossings and the Falls as well as a Short Course. Immaculate fairways, strategic hazards, and picturesque surroundings provide an exhilarating challenge surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty.
Besides Magnolia Grove there are at least 5 other remarkable golf courses in Mobile Alabama. They are:
- Azalea City Golf Course
- Spring Hill Golf Course
- Heron Lakes Golf Course
- Country Club of Mobile, Main Golf Course
- Country Club of Mobile, Executive Golf Course
Of course there are many things to do in Mobile Alabama, other than golfing. Take time off to watch a breathtaking sunset from the coast and certainly make it a point to spend some time at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Dauphin Island’s pristine beaches, bird sanctuaries, and coastal trails, or find tranquility amidst vibrant floral displays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home.
Food lovers will delight in Mobile’s culinary scene, offering a delectable range of seafood delicacies and traditional Southern cuisine; from fresh Gulf Coast seafood to mouthwatering barbecue.
11. Fairhope Alabama: Golf with Sea Breeze
Across the Mobile Bay, the charming town of Fairhope captivates golf enthusiasts with idyllic fairways, artistic ambiance, and coastal charm. This hidden gem on Alabama’s Gulf Coast offers a golfing experience combining natural beauty, challenging courses, and vibrant artistic flair.
Fairhope boasts the historic Lakewood Club at Point Clear, a part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Nestled alongside Mobile Bay, this extraordinary club combines refreshing coastal breezes with fairways that gracefully weave through majestic Southern Pine groves and centuries-old Live Oaks.
Another golf course in Fairhope that is fantastic is the Rock Creek Golf Club. Designed by renowned architect and Southern favorite, Earl Stone, Rock Creek provides a playable and enjoyable layout for golfers of all skill levels. It is an 18-hole golf course with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Even beyond golf, there are many things to do in Fairhope Alabama. Stroll downtown streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and antique shops. The Fairhope Museum of History offers insight into the town’s heritage, while the Eastern Shore Art Center showcases local artists and engaging exhibitions.
Nature enthusiasts find solace in Fairhope’s coastal beauty and outdoor opportunities. The Fairhope Municipal Pier provides panoramic bay views, dolphin sightings, and stunning sunsets. Nearby Weeks Bay Reserve offers diverse wildlife and picturesque hiking trails.
Fairhope’s culinary scene tantalizes taste buds with fresh seafood, Southern classics, and international flavors. Waterfront dining and quaint cafes provide delectable dishes in a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
I wish to put on record my awe at the vision behind creating the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail that has put Alabama on the global golf map.
