Posts from September 28th, 2022

The game of golf has been played worldwide for centuries, if not longer. For some, it's a fun and relaxing way to spend the day. For others, it's a lifelong passion. If golf is something you can't get enough of, you'll be pleased to learn October 4 is National Golf Lovers Day! And what better way to celebrate than by playing a few holes? Fortunately, there are plenty of public courses where you can work on your game. Here are our favorite public golf courses in and around Columbus.

Wilson Road Golf Course

1900 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus, OH 43228

This 9-hole golf course is great for anyone looking for a quicker game. It features six par 3s and three par 4s and is a par-30 course overall. The fairway is lined with beautiful trees and has two small ponds and a creek running through it. They also have a special deal for weddings. If you bring your wedding party of eight or more people on the Saturday nearest your wedding, the bride or groom can play free!

Raymond Memorial Golf Course

3860 Trabue Rd., Columbus, OH 43228

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A Columbus fixture for nearly 70 years, this course features a unique twist: Each par-3 hole has an extra hole running parallel to it, with trees, greens, fairways, etc. These "twin holes" play host to a variety of junior golf programs in the summer months, making this an excellent course for young and beginner golfers to gain some experience. Though with 18 holes and a par 72, more experienced players will love the Raymond Memorial course as well. The large greens are sloped and contoured, with sand bunkers for each hole.

Champions Golf Course

3900 Westerville Rd., Columbus, OH 43224

If you really want to hone your golf skills, this is the course to play. Considered one of the most challenging courses in Central Ohio, its terrain features hills, dense trees, and more. It's not an easy course, but it is fun, with beautiful views. By far the oldest course on this list, Champions was first built in 1922, then redesigned in 1948 by Robert Trent Jones to be a full 18 holes. A classic course, it has stood the test of time and will likely continue to challenge golfers for many years to come.

Mentel Memorial Golf Course

6005 Alkire Rd., Galloway, OH 43119

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They say golf is a mental game, but in this case, it's a Mentel game. Originally opened in 1972 as Bolton Fields, the Mentel Memorial Golf Course in Galloway is a par-72 course that golfers have been coming to for nearly 50 years. It's every bit as comfortable and accommodating as a private club. Their 20,000-square-foot clubhouse features all the amenities, plus a banquet hall perfect for weddings and other events. But what about the game? With four sets of tees, the Mentel Memorial Course has something for everyone, from beginners to professionals. The grounds include three large lakes and 44 bunkers, along with wide fairways lined with trees.

Airport Golf Course

900 N. Hamilton Rd., Columbus, OH 43219

As its name implies, this golf course is next to John Glenn International Airport, allowing players to view the planes as they take off and land. First opened in 1966, the course received a full redesign in 2012, making it the beautiful, modern facility it is today. The Airport Course is gentle enough for beginners but includes a few fun challenges that will keep experts coming back for more. With a par 72, the ratings on this course range from 59.0 to 72.8, ensuring there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a course with a bit of variety to keep things interesting, even with regular visits, this is the course for you.

The Golf Depot

789 Science Blvd., Gahanna, OH 43230

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Located in nearby Gahanna, the Golf Depot is designed to train new golfers and help them hone their skills. In addition to its 18 holes, it has both a driving range and a wedge range for practice. They also have many on-site instructors who can be booked for private lessons. And the Hammond Golf Academy makes its home on the premises as well. The golf school trains kids and adults, amateurs and pros alike, providing them with the tools and skills they need to improve their game.

Turnberry Golf Course

1145 Clubhouse Ln., Pickerington, OH 43147

First built in 1991, this 18-hole course borders Blacklick Creek and features high fescue grass, several lakes, and several bunkers. Perfect for lessons or tournaments, it's a challenging but fun course for novices and experts alike. The tees range from 3,812 to 6,675 yards, and you can play par 72 or 73. There's also a driving range with 70 tee stations. 

Westchester Golf Course

6300 Bent Grass Blvd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110

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Golfers have been coming to this course for over 25 years, and most of them rave about it. It features a course rating of 73.6 and a slope rating of 128. Several leagues play at Westchester, including a couples' league, a family league, a two-person team league, and a 9-hole senior league. The facility hosts events throughout the year and can be booked for weddings and other parties. You can also book private lessons at their practice facilities, and annual memberships are also available. And when you're done playing, check out the course's restaurant, Olive Branch Pizzeria!

Par for the Course

Where will you go to take a few strokes off your golf game this fall?