Golf courses don’t necessarily need to be long to be difficult. While some par-3 courses pride themselves on toughness, all of them offer a chance for people to have fun. Whether they are scaled-down versions of famous par-3s around the world, or a totally original design, some of these tracks are the real deal.
Here are 10 awesome par-3 courses around the U.S. if you need that mid-week quick round getaway.
Par-3 Course – Augusta National Golf Club
via golfcoursegurus.com
The “Par-3 Course” at Augusta National doesn’t need a fancy name. Every year the pros gather here for another tradition unlike any other on the Wednesday before the competition and put on a show for the patrons. However, winning it comes a catch, Nobody has ever won the green jacket the week they won the par-3. Don’t ask us why…it just adds to the legend that is Augusta National. The short nine-hole track captures all the beauty that southern Georgia offers and is as pristine just like its much longer counterpart. In fact, Paul Azinger once called it “the best golf course in the world.” Check it out.
Threetops – TreeTops Sylvan Resort
via treetops.com
Threetops, located in Gaylord, Michigan, is one of the best known par-3 courses in the world because of its dramatic elevation changes and beautiful mountain views. In fact, the 7th hole plays three (!) clubs less due to elevation. Back in the day, it was the home to the ESPN Par 3 Shootout. See it here.
Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course
via golfontheocean.com
The Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course is a gorgeous little gem located right between the ocean and the Intracostal Waterway on some of the most expensive real estate on the southeast coast of Florida. It was redesigned by Raymond Floyd and is always in great shape. Check it out.
Challenge Course – Monarch Dunes
via ncga.org
This “links-style” 12-hole course located at Monarch Dunes in Nipomo, California is designed by Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate. Multiple tees provide an opportunity to play a different course each time you go out. Some of the unique links features include dunes and fescue that line the holes. See it here.
Cloud Nine Short Course – Angel Park Golf Club
via golfvegas.com
Located at the Angel Park Golf Club in Las Vegas, the Cloud Nine Short Course is a tidy little 12-hole track inspired by some of the most iconic par-3s in the world, including TPC Sawgrass’ 17th island green. The best part is 9 of the 12 holes are lighted so you can play well into the evening. Don’t worry, whatever you shoot in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Check it out.
Origins Golf Club
via watersound.com
Origins Golf Club is located on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida and is designed by Davis Love III. Its unique design allows it to be played a variety of different ways, such as a par-3 course or a six hole-layout consisting of par-3s, 4s, and 5s! See it here.
Top of the Rock Golf Course
via topoftherock.com
Top of the Rock Golf Course is part of the Big Cedar Lodge located just south of Branson, Missouri. This Jack Nicklaus design offers wonderful views and terrific conditions. A round of golf includes access to an additional putting course, a bag of range balls and a canyon and nature trail tour. Check it out.
Barn Hollow – Hawk’s View Golf Club
via wisconsingolf.com
Part of the Hawk’s View Golf Club located in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, this 18-hole par-3 course is conveniently named after the old abandoned barn on the property. It usually is in great shape and has all the hazards of a regulation-sized course. Just be wary of the greens as they’ve been known to be challenging. See it here.
Short Course – Magnolia Grove Golf Club
via rtjgolf.com
The Short Course located in Mobile, Alabama, is one of several par-3 courses on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, but this known as the best of the bunch. With forced carries over marshes to undulating greens, this golf course is a true test even without the length. Check it out.
Bad Little Nine – Scottsdale National
via scoopnest.com
Located at Scottsdale National, this par-3 course is true to its name. The brainchild of PXG and Go Daddy founder Dr. Bob Parsons, it features some of the most difficult green complexes you’ll see, not to mention some wild bunkering. A course doesn’t need to be long to be intimidating. See it here.
