5 Must-Play Public Golf Courses in Minnesota

There is nothing quite like golfing in the Midwest. The hospitality. The changing seasons. The wide array of golf courses to enjoy.

That is exactly why Minnesota was chosen as the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship’s host site. In fact, The North Star State has hosted the championship twice now, along with a variety of PGA Championships and a Ryder Cup.

As further proof of Minnesota’s popularity in the golfing community, 90 percent of its golf courses are open to public play—the highest percentage in the United States. When you have a chance this summer and fall, take some time to explore the state’s 400-plus public courses, including the following five. You’ll certainly be glad you did!

Near the shores of Pelican Lake in North Central Minnesota, golfers will discover a resort that features two immaculate courses: Deacon’s Lodge and Whitebirch Golf Course. Designed by Arnold Palmer, Deacon’s Lodge was actually named after his father, while Whitebirch is primarily known for its value.

“Whitebirch remains under $100 at peak,” said Nolan Toft, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Whitebirch. “Conditioned by the same team that maintains Deacon’s Lodge, it is always in better shape than any other course in a similar price point.”

Meanwhile, Deacon’s Lodge is a day trip for many Twin Cities residents, as it’s roughly two hours away. A nearly 600-acre property, the course has been ranked Minnesota’s number two public course by Golfweek.

“Its 17th hole was listed by Arnold himself as one of his favorite 18 holes he’s built,” Toft stated.

To improve guests’ experiences even more, two short courses (Ace Valley and Three Breeze) are also set to open in 2027.

“Ace Valley will have a rooftop tee shot off the clubhouse—and an island green bonus hole with live stream feeds,” stressed Eric Hart, General Manager. “Further enhanced by lighting for nighttime play, Ace Valley will be a one-of-one experience in the golf world.”

Located in Northeast Minnesota, Giants Ridge will provide you a break from the norm. First, it’s more than three hours away from Minneapolis. Second, Biwabik has less than 1,000 residents. And, finally, the nearest stoplight is 20 miles away.

“Giant Ridge’s two courses, The Legend and The Quarry, are adjacent to the Superior National Forest,” said John Kendall, PGA, Director of Golf. “Customers feel like they are truly on vacation while in the area.”

Due to Giant Ridge’s location, it’s a “true destination golf facility,” too, according to Kendall, as golf is always the number-one focus. In turn, both courses are simply immaculate, resulting in several awards over the years. Aside from these commonalities (the courses’ conditions and recognition), they really don’t have any other similarities though.

After all, The Legends offers a Northwoods golf experience with its dense forests and rocky shoreline lakes. On the other hand, The Quarry was built on a repurposed mining site.

“Each course’s distinct settings set them apart from one another,” Kendall added. “No two holes look alike either, leading customers to visit over and over again.”

Also situated in Northeast Minnesota, Superior National provides a distinction from Giants Ridge and The Wilderness: it’s on the shores of Lake Superior. This lakefront location leads to astounding views on a majority of the property’s holes.

In fact, golfers can see Lake Superior on 22 of Superior National’s 27 holes. And when they can’t view the lake? Well, they’ll be enamored by the stunning Sawtooth Mountains, too.

“Superior National features some of Minnesota’s best views,” said Heath Ekstrom, PGA, General Manager and Head Golf Professional.

Comprised of the nine-hole Canyon course and the nine-hole River course, culminating in the “Premier 18,” Superior National has one more nine-hole course as well—the Mountain. Each course is known for its elevation changes, which will test all golfers. Yet, since every course is relatively short, when compared to most courses today, all golfers will relish their experiences.

Again, nothing compares to the courses’ views though. Simply put, the courses’ natural beauty is more than enough of a reason to visit.

“Each course is one of Minnesota’s most visually appealing,” Ekstrom emphasized. “You have to see each one for yourself!”

Nestled in Northeast Minnesota as well, The Wilderness is renowned for three key characteristics. It’s very close to gorgeous Lake Vermilion, resulting in endless family fun options. Additionally, a casino-hotel is nearby, enabling guests to stay and play on the property. And, above all else, the golf course itself is highly playable. Therefore, golfers of all ages and skill levels will treasure their time in Tower, Minnesota.

“Multiple tee boxes and generous landing areas, including split fairways, cater to expert players and newer golfers alike,” said Bill Manahan, PGA, General Manager.

The Wilderness’s greens are large, too. Thus, golfers will have ample space to hit their approach shots to. Along with its fair, yet simultaneously challenging layout, the 18-hole championship course is known for its scenery and wildlife as well.

“You’ll be able to soak in the natural setting while also enjoying a consistently excellent course,” Manahan stated. “This combination ensures you’ll have the best experience possible.”

Although it’s only 30 minutes southeast of Minneapolis, The Wilds Golf Club certainly doesn’t feel like it’s so close to one of the United States’ largest cities. On the contrary, it’s a tranquil 18-hole championship course that offers an escape from the norms of city life.

Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the course is also known for its beauty, conditions and variety. Throughout the season, the course is in “excellent shape” and its greens always “roll true,” according to Tom Heraly, PGA, Head Golf Professional.

As an example of The Wilds Golf Club’s variety, Heraly noted that “no shot is the same” on the course. More often than not, golfers will need to use every club in their bags as well, ensuring each experience is distinct, even if someone has played the course dozens of times.

“You can play this course multiple times and play it differently each time,” Heraly said. “We pride ourselves on our service too, which will be excellent from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, time after time.”