The Ultimate Guide to Golfing in St. Paul, Minnesota

A Local's Perspective for Every Golfer

Welcome to the heart of Minnesota golf! This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for navigating the diverse and rewarding golf scene in St. Paul and the surrounding areas. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, you'll find valuable information here – from course rankings and insider tips to seasonal strategies and local culture. Consider this your definitive playbook for a memorable golfing experience in the Twin Cities.

Course Rankings & Reviews

St. Paul boasts a rich golfing history, with courses ranging from classic public layouts to upscale daily-fee gems. Here's a breakdown of our top picks, categorized for different budgets and skill levels.

Top 7 Public Courses:

1. Chippewa Golf Club:
2. Signature Hole: The par-3 12th, playing over a creek with a picturesque backdrop of mature trees.
3. Notable Features: A classic, tree-lined layout with strategically placed bunkers and undulating greens. Known for its challenging yet fair design.
4. Unique Aspect: A long-standing public course with a strong sense of tradition and a welcoming atmosphere.
5. Forest View Golf Course:
6. Signature Hole: The par-4 3rd, a slight dogleg right with a well-guarded green.
7. Notable Features: A more forgiving layout than some others, ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed round. Beautifully maintained.
8. Unique Aspect: Offers excellent value and a friendly, community-oriented feel.
9. Como Golf Course:
10. Signature Hole: The par-3 17th, a short but demanding hole with a sloping green.
11. Notable Features: A compact, parkland-style course with challenging pin placements and firm greens.
12. Unique Aspect: Located within the vibrant Como Park, offering a unique urban golfing experience.
13. Pine Lake Golf Course:
14. Signature Hole: The par-5 18th, a reachable-in-two for longer hitters with water hazards guarding the approach.
15. Notable Features: A classic layout with water features and strategically placed bunkers. Offers a good mix of challenging and playable holes.
16. Unique Aspect: A well-established course with a loyal following and a reputation for consistent play.
17. Morse Park Golf Course:
18. Signature Hole: The par-4 10th, a visually appealing hole with a tee shot over a creek and a demanding approach.
19. Notable Features: A shorter course, making it accessible for all skill levels. Well-maintained and offers a pleasant walking experience.
20. Unique Aspect: A great option for a quick round or for those who prefer a less time-consuming game.
21. Bravo Golf Course:
22. Signature Hole: The par-3 14th, a visually striking hole with a challenging green complex.
23. Notable Features: A well-designed course with a variety of hole layouts and challenging pin positions.
24. Unique Aspect: Known for its excellent condition and consistently enjoyable play.
25. Scramble Golf Course:
26. Signature Hole: The par-4 16th, a slightly uphill hole with a well-defined fairway.
27. Notable Features: A relatively short and easy-to-play course, perfect for beginners and casual golfers.
28. Unique Aspect: Offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a friendly round with friends.

Hidden Gems:

1. Maplewood Golf Course: A charming, older course with mature trees and a classic feel. Often overlooked but offers a delightful and affordable round.
2. Ramsey Park Golf Course: A shorter, more affordable course with a friendly atmosphere. Great for a quick, casual game.

Premium Public Options:

1. The Trails Golf Course (St. Paul Parks): While technically public, The Trails offers a more refined experience with well-groomed fairways and greens, often hosting local events.
2. Minnesota Golf Association Courses: Several courses affiliated with the MGA offer higher-end amenities and meticulous course conditions. Check their website for a list of participating courses.

Budget-Friendly Champions: (Under $50)

• Forest View Golf Course: Consistently offers rounds under $30, especially during off-peak hours.
• Morse Park Golf Course: Typically around $20-$25 for a round.
• Scramble Golf Course: One of the most affordable options in the area, often under $20.

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown:

• Beginner-Friendly (Slope/Rating 100-115): Forest View, Morse Park, Scramble Golf. These courses feature wider fairways, fewer hazards, and more forgiving greens.
• Championship-Level (Slope/Rating 120+): Chippewa, Como, Pine Lake, Bravo. These courses present more strategic challenges with narrower fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens.

Seasonal Strategy:

• Peak Season: June - August. Expect warmer temperatures, longer days, and higher green fees.
• Spring (April - May): Course openings vary. Expect some early-season courses to be closed due to snow melt and aeration. Conditions can be unpredictable with potential for rain and cooler temperatures.
• Fall (September - October): Often considered the best playing season with cooler, crisp air and beautiful foliage.
• Winter (November - March): Most public courses are closed. Indoor facilities like Topgolf and driving ranges offer practice options.

Tee Time Tactics:

• Best Booking Platforms: Course websites, GolfNow (https://www.golfnow.com/), and individual course phone numbers.
• Advance Reservation Requirements: Highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends.
• Walk-On Possibilities: Some courses may have walk-on spots available, particularly during weekday afternoons, but it's not guaranteed. Check the course website or call ahead.

Local Playing Conditions:

• Typical Weather Patterns: Expect four distinct seasons. Summer is generally warm and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
• Wind Considerations: The Mississippi River can influence wind patterns, particularly on courses closer to the river.
• Course Maintenance Schedules: Most courses have scheduled aeration and green maintenance. Check the course website for specific dates.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights:

• Equipment: The Golf Depot (https://www.golfdepot.com/) is a popular local shop with a wide selection of clubs, apparel, and accessories.
• Lessons & Club Fitting: The Golf Depot also offers lessons and club fitting services. Many courses also have pro shop staff who offer lessons.
• Club Fitting: Consider a fitting at a specialized shop for optimal performance.

19th Hole Recommendations:

• Chippewa Golf Club: The clubhouse offers a full menu with beautiful views of the course.
• Como Golf Course: The Como Inn is a short walk away and offers a casual dining experience.
• Pine Lake Golf Course: The clubhouse has a restaurant serving classic American fare.
• Bravo Golf Course: Offers a casual patio with drinks and light bites.

Local Golf Culture:

• Etiquette Expectations: Pace of play is generally good, but be mindful of your group's pace. Repair divots and ball marks.
• Pace of Play Norms: Aim for a consistent pace of play – don't let your group fall behind.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous amateur and professional tournaments are held throughout the year. Check the Minnesota Golf Association website for a calendar.

Transportation & Logistics:

• Parking Situations: Most courses have ample parking.
• Public Transit Access: Some courses are accessible via the Metro Transit bus system. Check the Metro Transit website (https://www.metrotransit.org/) for routes.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Consider a day trip combining two or three courses in different parts of the city.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf:

• Course Reopening Schedules: Typically, courses begin opening in mid-April, weather permitting.
• Aeration Timing: Aeration often occurs in the spring to improve course health.
• Early Season Conditions: Expect some courses to still be recovering from winter, with potentially soggy conditions.

Summer Strategy:

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and consider playing during the cooler morning or evening hours.
• Prime Tee Times: Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
• Twilight Golf Opportunities: Many courses offer twilight rates during the summer months.

Fall Excellence:

• Peak Playing Season Details: September and October offer ideal weather for golf.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the beautiful fall colors while you play.
• Weather Transitions: Be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential rain.

Winter Options:

• Year-Round Facilities: Topgolf offers an indoor golfing experience.
• Indoor Alternatives: Driving ranges with covered bays are available.
• Off-Season Practice: Utilize indoor facilities to work on your game.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles:

• Dominant Course Designers: Many courses in the area have been influenced by renowned designers like Pete Dye and Robert Trent Jones Sr.
• Local Influences: The rolling hills and abundant forests of Minnesota have shaped the design of many courses.

Geographical Advantages:

• Terrain: The varied terrain provides a diverse golfing experience, with courses featuring rolling hills, water hazards, and wooded areas.
• Climate: The four distinct seasons create a dynamic golfing environment.

Tournament History:

• Notable Events: The Minnesota Golf Association hosts numerous amateur championships throughout the year.
• Professional Tournaments: While not a major PGA Tour stop, some regional professional events are held in the area.
• Championship Venues: Several courses have hosted state and regional championships.

Golf Community:

• Local Golf Associations: The Minnesota Golf Association (https://www.minnesotagolf.com/) is the primary governing body for amateur golf in the state.
• Leagues: Numerous amateur golf leagues cater to different skill levels and interests.
• Networking Opportunities: Golf clubs and events provide opportunities to connect with other golfers.

Special Features

Golfer Profiles:

• Beginner: Forest View, Morse Park, Scramble Golf.
• Intermediate: Chippewa, Como, Pine Lake, Bravo.
• Advanced: The Trails, select MGA courses.

Seasonal Pricing Guide: (General Estimates)

• Spring/Fall: $40 - $60
• Summer: $50 - $80
• Winter (Indoor): $20 - $40

Weather Contingencies:

• Indoor Facilities: Topgolf, driving ranges with covered bays.
• Rainy Day Alternatives: Museums, shopping centers, and restaurants.

Local Partnerships:

• Course Packages: Many courses offer packages that include green fees, cart rentals, and sometimes meals.
• Stay-and-Play Deals: Check with local hotels and resorts for golf packages.
• Group Discounts: Inquire with courses about group rates for parties of 12 or more.

Accessibility Notes:

• Chippewa Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and pathways.
• Como Golf Course: Has accessible cart paths.
• Forest View Golf Course: Generally considered accessible.
• Morse Park Golf Course: Offers accessible tees.

This guide is constantly evolving. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the individual course websites or contact them directly. We hope you enjoy your time on the links in St. Paul!