The Green Bay Golf Guide: Your Definitive Resource for Tee Times & Local Insights

Introduction: Welcome to Green Bay Golf

Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a golfer's paradise, boasting a diverse range of courses that cater to every skill level and budget. From historic links-style layouts to meticulously manicured parkland courses, the area offers a memorable golfing experience year-round. This guide, compiled with insights from local professionals and seasoned players, aims to be your go-to resource for planning your next round, whether you're a local favorite or a visiting enthusiast.

Course Rankings & Reviews

This section presents a curated list of Green Bay's top courses, categorized by their unique attributes and appeal. Ratings are based on a combination of course rankings (Golf Digest, Golfweek), local player feedback, and course features.

Top 7 Public Courses:

1. Lambeau Field Golf Center (Championship Course):
2. Signature Hole: The 18th, a challenging par-4 with a dramatic approach to a well-guarded green, offering a memorable finish.
3. Notable Features: Located adjacent to Lambeau Field, this course offers a unique golfing experience. It features rolling hills, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards. The course is known for its excellent conditioning and challenging layout.
4. Unique Factor: The proximity to Lambeau Field creates a vibrant atmosphere, especially during game days. They offer pre- and post-game packages.
5. Slope/Rating: 131/70.6
6. Seasonal Pricing: $45-$65 (May-October)

7. Website: https://www.lambeaufieldgolfcenter.com/

8. Brown County Course:

9. Signature Hole: The 5th, a picturesque par-3 with a tee shot over a creek to a green nestled among trees.
10. Notable Features: A classic, tree-lined course with undulating fairways and challenging greens. Known for its strategic bunkering and demanding approach shots.
11. Unique Factor: A historic course with a traditional layout, offering a classic golfing experience.
12. Slope/Rating: 128/68.2
13. Seasonal Pricing: $35-$50 (May-October)

14. Website: https://www.browncounty.com/golf/

15. Green Bay Golf Club:

16. Signature Hole: The 12th, a long par-5 with a risk-reward approach, offering a thrilling opportunity for a birdie.
17. Notable Features: A well-maintained course with a variety of challenges, including water hazards and strategically placed bunkers. Known for its fast greens.
18. Unique Factor: A popular course for tournaments and leagues, offering a competitive golfing environment.
19. Slope/Rating: 135/72.5
20. Seasonal Pricing: $40-$60 (May-October)

21. Website: https://www.greenbaygolfclub.com/

22. Northwood Golf Course:

23. Signature Hole: The 18th, a challenging par-4 with a dogleg right approach, demanding accuracy and strategic shot-making.
24. Notable Features: A scenic course with mature trees and rolling hills. Known for its challenging layout and well-maintained fairways.
25. Unique Factor: A popular course for both casual golfers and serious players, offering a balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment.
26. Slope/Rating: 125/66.8
27. Seasonal Pricing: $30-$50 (May-October)

28. Website: https://www.greenbay.wi.gov/departments/parks_and_recreation/golf/northwood_golf_course

29. Ashwaubenon Golf Course:

30. Signature Hole: The 9th, a short par-4 with a tee shot over a creek, offering a unique and memorable hole.
31. Notable Features: A friendly and welcoming course with a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its affordable rates and well-maintained greens.
32. Unique Factor: A great option for budget-conscious golfers looking for a enjoyable round.
33. Slope/Rating: 118/63.5
34. Seasonal Pricing: $25-$40 (May-October)

35. Website: https://www.ashwaubenon.wi.gov/departments/parks_and_recreation/golf/

36. Bay Beach Golf Course:

37. Signature Hole: The 17th, a par-3 with a challenging green complex, requiring precise shot-making.
38. Notable Features: A popular course with a friendly atmosphere and a variety of challenges. Known for its well-maintained greens and strategic bunkering.
39. Unique Factor: Located within Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a scenic and peaceful golfing experience.
40. Slope/Rating: 120/64.2
41. Seasonal Pricing: $30-$50 (May-October)

42. Website: https://www.baybeachgolf.com/

43. Navarino Golf Course:

44. Signature Hole: The 18th, a long par-4 with a challenging approach to a green guarded by bunkers.
45. Notable Features: A scenic course with rolling hills and mature trees. Known for its challenging layout and well-maintained fairways.
46. Unique Factor: A popular course for both casual golfers and serious players, offering a balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment.
47. Slope/Rating: 132/71.1
48. Seasonal Pricing: $35-$55 (May-October)
49. Website: https://www.navarino.com/golf/

Hidden Gems:

1. Catawba Golf Course: A smaller, less-known course with a charming, old-school feel. It's a great value and offers a relaxed golfing experience. Excellent for beginners and those looking for a quick round. (Slope/Rating: 115/60.5, $25-$40)
2. Lincoln Hills Golf Course: A well-maintained, affordable course with a friendly atmosphere. It's a popular choice for local golfers and offers a good value for the price. (Slope/Rating: 122/63, $30-$45)

Premium Public Options:

1. Lambeau Field Golf Center (Championship Course): As mentioned above, the Championship Course is the premium offering at Lambeau Field. The course conditions are consistently excellent, and the overall experience is top-notch.
2. Green Bay Golf Club: A consistently ranked course, Green Bay Golf Club offers a premium golfing experience with well-maintained facilities and challenging layout.

Budget-Friendly Champions:

1. Ashwaubenon Golf Course: Consistently ranked as one of the most affordable courses in the area.
2. Catawba Golf Course: Offers a great value for a relaxed round of golf.
3. Lincoln Hills Golf Course: A consistently affordable option with a friendly atmosphere.

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown:

• Beginner-Friendly: Ashwaubenon Golf Course, Catawba Golf Course, Lincoln Hills Golf Course. These courses generally have shorter yardages, wider fairways, and fewer hazards. Slope/Ratings are typically below 125.
• Championship-Level: Green Bay Golf Club, Lambeau Field Golf Center (Championship Course), Navarino Golf Course, Brown County Course. These courses feature longer yardages, narrower fairways, strategically placed hazards, and challenging greens. Slope/Ratings are typically above 125.

Seasonal Strategy:

• Spring (April-May): Course openings vary. Expect soggy conditions and potential course closures due to lingering snow. Early season rates are often discounted.
• Summer (June-August): Peak season. Expect warm temperatures, long days, and higher green fees. Book tee times well in advance. Twilight golf is popular to avoid the heat.
• Fall (September-October): Peak playing season. Beautiful foliage, cooler temperatures, and often lower green fees. Excellent conditions.
• Winter (November-March): Limited options. Indoor golf facilities, driving ranges, and practice areas are available. Some courses may offer limited winter rates.

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. Some courses require reservations up to two weeks in advance.
• Walk-On Possibilities: Possible, but not guaranteed. Call the course directly to inquire about availability. Weekdays are more likely to have walk-on opportunities.

Local Playing Conditions:

• Typical Weather Patterns: Green Bay experiences four distinct seasons. Summer is warm and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Fall is generally mild and sunny. Winter is cold and snowy.
• Wind Considerations: Lake Michigan's proximity can create significant wind conditions, especially on courses near the lake. Pay attention to wind direction and strength when planning your shots.
• Course Maintenance Schedules: Courses typically perform aeration in the spring and fall. Check the course website for specific schedules.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights:

• Equipment: Golf Galaxy (Green Bay location) is a popular choice for equipment. Many courses also have pro shops that sell a limited selection of clubs and accessories.
• Lessons: Green Bay Golf Club and Lambeau Field Golf Center offer lessons from experienced instructors. Individual instructors are also available.
• Club Fitting: Golf Galaxy and some private instructors offer club fitting services.

19th Hole Recommendations:

• Lambeau Field Golf Center: The 19th Hole offers a casual dining experience with views of the course.
• Brown County Course: The Brown County Clubhouse offers a classic dining experience with a full menu.
• Green Bay Golf Club: The Green Bay Golf Club Clubhouse offers a fine dining experience with a sophisticated atmosphere.
• Bay Beach Golf Course: The Bay Beach Clubhouse offers a casual dining experience with a variety of menu options.

Local Golf Culture:

• Etiquette Expectations: Respectful play, quiet during swings, repairing divots, and raking bunkers are essential.
• Pace of Play Norms: Maintain a brisk pace of play. Be ready to hit when it's your turn.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous amateur and professional tournaments are held throughout the year. Check the Wisconsin Golf Association website for a calendar of events.

Transportation & Logistics:

• Parking Situations: Most courses have ample parking.
• Public Transit Access: Limited public transit access to most courses. Driving is generally the easiest option.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Consider using a ride-sharing service or carpooling if planning to play multiple courses.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf:

• Course Reopening Schedules: Typically, courses begin opening in mid-April, weather permitting.
• Aeration Timing: Aeration is usually performed in the spring to improve course drainage.
• Early Season Conditions: Expect soggy conditions and potential course closures due to lingering snow.

Summer Strategy:

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
• Prime Tee Times: Early morning tee times are cooler and less crowded.
• Twilight Golf Opportunities: Take advantage of longer daylight hours by playing twilight rounds.

Fall Excellence:

• Peak Playing Season: September and October offer the best playing conditions and scenery.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while playing.
• Weather Transitions: Be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential rain.

Winter Options:

• Year-Round Facilities: Some courses offer indoor practice facilities and driving ranges.
• Indoor Alternatives: Indoor golf simulators and driving ranges are available.
• Off-Season Practice: Utilize indoor facilities to maintain your game during the winter months.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles:

• Influences: Courses in Green Bay reflect a blend of traditional and modern design influences. Many courses feature rolling hills and tree-lined fairways, reminiscent of classic links-style layouts.
• Notable Designers: While specific designers are less prominent than in other regions, many courses have been renovated over the years, incorporating modern design principles.

Geographical Advantages:

• Terrain: The rolling hills and forests of the Green Bay area provide a natural setting for golf courses.
• Climate: The climate is conducive to year-round golf, with warm summers and mild winters.
• Landscape: The proximity to Lake Michigan adds a scenic element to many courses.

Tournament History:

• Notable Events: The Green Bay Open is a prominent amateur tournament held annually.
• Professional Tournaments: The area has hosted several professional tournaments throughout the years.
• Championship Venues: Lambeau Field Golf Center has hosted several major tournaments.

Golf Community:

• Local Golf Associations: The Wisconsin Golf Association (https://www.wiscongolf.com/) is the primary governing body for golf in the state.
• Leagues: Numerous amateur golf leagues are available for golfers of all skill levels.
• Networking Opportunities: Attend local tournaments and events to connect with other golfers.

Accessibility Notes:

• Green Bay Golf Club: Offers accessible tees and carts.
• Bay Beach Golf Course: Has accessible tees and carts.
• Navarino Golf Course: Offers accessible tees and carts.

This information is intended for general guidance only. Please contact the individual courses for specific details regarding accessibility and other amenities.