Golfing in Iowa

Cedar Rapids Country Club
The Cedar Rapids Country Club, in Linn County, Iowa, offers a private, 18-hole, par-72 course, amidst the oak woodlands of Indian Creek. The layout, designed by renowned golf architect, Donald Ross, was opened in 1904 and is widely regarded as one of the better private courses in the Midwest. Substantial investment in the late 1990s has ensured that the golf and associated facilities remain at high quality. The course measures a tough 6,601 yards from the back tees, but caters for all skill levels with 3 further sets of tees at 6,206 yards, 5,953 yards and 5413 yards (par-73), making it enjoyable for all golfers. Green fees are relatively expensive, although reviews indicate that the course is maintained in superb condition, is perfectly balanced in design, offering play in beautiful surroundings. Supplementary golf facilities include a driving range, club and cart hire, while there is plenty offered to non-golfers. Amenities include 7 tennis courts (with professional tuitio! n available), a fitness centre with an extensive range of exercise equipment, temperature-controlled swimming pool and a reportedly excellent restaurant.

Harvester Golf Club
The Harvester Golf Club, situated near Rhodes, Iowa, is a public course that has consistently been placed amongst the "Top 100 Courses You Can Play," by Golf Magazine`s expert panel, since its opening in 2003. Designed by Keith Foster, the 18-hole, par-72 layout occupies over 300 acres of wetlands and dense woodland around Lake Harvester, with numerous ponds and streams coming into play on many holes. The course is notable for its breathtaking design, featuring elevation changes of 100 feet+ in some areas. Whilst the greens are large, reviews suggest that putting on them presents a challenge in itself. The number of bunkers is remarkably small for a course of this nature, but their large nature and strategic placement provides a superb balance between risk and reward. There are 5 sets of tees, from an intimidating 7,340 yards to 5,115 yards, offering challenges for golfers ranging from the novice to the single-figure handicapper. The absence of a driving range is an obvious ! downside, although a practice putting green and pitching / chipping area are available. The club also has a well-stocked pro shop, with rental clubs / carts and tuition available from the resident teaching professional. With a bar offering food and green fees in the mid-range, The Harvester Golf Club has been rated excellent value for money by the majority of reviewers.

The Barn at Gruis Recreation Area
The Barn is a municipal course, situated in Buffalo Center, Winnebago County, Iowa. Although only a 9-hole layout, the par-36 course provides superb challenges for golfers of all abilities. There a 3 sets of tees, ranging from 3,230 yards through 2,964 yards to the front tees at 2,839 yards. Reviews suggest that the course is well-designed and maintained in very good condition. With accompanying facilities including a driving range, cart and club rental, it appears an ideal option for golfers on a limited budget.

Cheap car hire in Chicago, in the neighboring state of Illinois, is an ideal way for golfers to travel around the area.