Michigan has firmly established itself as a premier golf destination, offering world-class courses set against stunning natural backdrops. Based on recent rankings and golfer feedback, here are the top 10 golf courses to travel to in Michigan for an unforgettable golfing experience in summer 2025:
10. The Masterpiece at Treetops Resort, Gaylord
The Masterpiece, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., has made an impressive leap in national rankings, jumping 45 spots to secure the 8th position among Michigan’s finest. This course offers a challenging layout with breathtaking views of the northern Michigan landscape. Golf Digest consistently ranks it as a must-play course in Michigan.
Golfers praise The Masterpiece for its difficulty and picturesque setting. As Darian P. noted, “Awesome courses! While all were wonderful and challenging, Masterpiece is the most difficult and picturesque.”
9. Bay Harbor Golf Club, Bay Harbor
Bay Harbor Golf Club, designed by Arthur Hills in 1997, offers a unique 27-hole experience combining three distinct 9-hole courses: The Links, The Quarry, and The Preserve. Each course provides stunning views of Lake Michigan, creating a diverse and memorable golfing experience.
The Links/Quarry combination is particularly highly regarded, ranking 5th among Michigan’s resort courses with a rating of 6.53 out of 7.
8. The Loop at Forest Dunes, Roscommon
The Loop at Forest Dunes is a groundbreaking reversible 18-hole course designed by Tom Doak. It offers two distinct layouts – the Red and Black courses – that can be played in opposite directions on alternating days. This innovative design has earned it the 30th spot in national rankings and the 2nd position among Michigan’s resort courses.
The course’s unique concept and excellent execution make it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts looking for a truly distinctive experience.
7. Arcadia Bluffs (South Course), Arcadia
The South Course at Arcadia Bluffs, designed by Dana Fry in 2018, complements its famous sibling with a different but equally compelling golfing experience. Ranked 4th among Michigan’s resort courses with a 6.63 rating, it offers a links-style layout inspired by the classic courses of Chicago.
The South Course provides a more traditional golfing challenge compared to the dramatic coastal setting of the original Bluffs course.
6. Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club, Marquette
Designed by Mike DeVries in 2005, Greywalls offers a unique and challenging golfing experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The course is known for its dramatic elevation changes, exposed rock outcroppings, and stunning views of Lake Superior.
Consistently ranked among Michigan’s top public courses, Greywalls provides a true test of golf in a spectacular natural setting.
5. The Bear at Grand Traverse Resort, Acme
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, The Bear is renowned for its difficulty and beauty. It has hosted numerous professional tournaments and is consistently ranked among Michigan’s top public courses. The course features elevated tees, deep bunkers, and challenging green complexes that test golfers of all skill levels.
Its proximity to Traverse City makes it an excellent option for combining a golf trip with other vacation activities.
4. Forest Dunes Golf Club, Roscommon
The original Forest Dunes course, designed by Tom Weiskopf in 2002, is a perennial favorite among golf enthusiasts. Ranked 61st nationally and 3rd among Michigan’s resort courses, it offers a classic parkland layout that takes full advantage of its natural setting.
The course is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic design, providing a fair but challenging test for golfers of all abilities.
3. The Heather at Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs
Part of the BOYNE Golf collection, The Heather is a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design that has stood the test of time. It consistently ranks among Michigan’s top courses and will host the Epson Tour Great Lakes Championship in June 2025, showcasing the next generation of LPGA talent.
The Heather offers a classic design with tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging green complexes, all set against the beautiful backdrop of northern Michigan.
2. American Dunes Golf Club, Grand Haven
A relatively new addition to Michigan’s golf scene, American Dunes has quickly become a must-play destination. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2021, the course pays tribute to the United States military and donates all profits to the Folds of Honor Foundation.
The course offers a links-style experience with wide fairways, large waste areas, and challenging green complexes. Its patriotic theme and excellent design make it a unique and memorable golfing experience.
1. Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, Arcadia
Topping the list is Arcadia Bluffs, consistently ranked as Michigan’s best golf course and among the top public courses in the United States. Designed by Warren Henderson and Rick Smith in 1999, Arcadia Bluffs offers a breathtaking golfing experience along the bluffs of Lake Michigan.
With a national ranking of 27 and a rating of 7.17 out of 7, Arcadia Bluffs combines stunning views, challenging play, and world-class amenities. The course’s dramatic elevation changes, deep bunkers, and undulating greens provide a stern test for even the most skilled golfers, all while offering unparalleled views of Lake Michigan.
When planning your Michigan golf trip for summer 2025, consider combining visits to these top courses with exploration of the state’s natural beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant cities. Many of these courses are part of larger resorts or are located near other highly-ranked courses, allowing you to create a diverse and memorable golfing itinerary. Remember to book tee times well in advance, especially for the most popular courses, to ensure availability during peak summer months.