Top 3 Golf Courses in Nashville, TN

Golf Courses: An Overview

Nashville offers excellent golf opportunities for players of all skill levels. From championship caliber public courses to affordable municipal options, the Music City area features diverse terrain, beautiful scenery along the Cumberland River, and courses designed by legendary architects. Whether you are a serious golfer seeking a challenging round or a beginner looking to learn the game, Nashville has a course for you.

Types of Golf Courses

Understanding the different course types helps you find the right fit:

Public Courses: Open to all players without membership requirements. These range from basic municipal courses to upscale daily fee facilities with resort style amenities.

Municipal Courses: Owned and operated by the city government, offering affordable golf to residents. Nashville Metro operates several well maintained courses that provide excellent value.

Private Clubs: Membership required for regular play, though some allow reciprocal play or public access on limited occasions. These typically offer the highest level of course conditioning and amenities.

Resort Courses: Connected to hotels or resorts, offering stay and play packages. These provide a complete golf vacation experience with lodging, dining, and course access bundled together.

1. Hermitage Golf Course

Best For: Golfers seeking a premier public golf experience, stay and play packages, and scenic riverside holes.

Philosophy: Since 1986, Hermitage Golf Course has established itself as the premier public golf destination in Tennessee. The facility offers two distinct 18 hole championship courses, luxury cottages for overnight stays, and a commitment to providing an exceptional golf experience for players of all abilities.

Courses:

President’s Reserve: Designed by Denis Griffiths and recognized by Golf Digest Magazine as one of the Top 10 courses in Tennessee. This 7,157 yard layout trails through 300 acres of natural wetlands along the Cumberland River.
General’s Retreat: Designed by Gary Roger Baird in 1986, this course hosted the LPGA Sara Lee Classic from 1988 to 1999. Voted “Best Golf Course in Nashville,” it offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Amenities:

On Site Cottages: Eight luxury cottages overlooking the course, each with private putting greens and fireplaces.
Hickory Sticks Grill: Full service restaurant offering traditional bar fare to upscale dining options.
Practice Facilities: Comprehensive practice area for pre round warmups and instruction.
Scottish Blackfaced Sheep: The course is home to a flock of over 45 Scottish Blackfaced sheep that roam the property.

Location: 3939 Old Hickory Boulevard, Old Hickory, TN 37138 (approximately 20 minutes from downtown Nashville)

Contact: (615) 847-4001 | hermitagegolf.com

Pricing: Weekend rates approximately $74 to $82 plus tax depending on course selection. Weekday rates and twilight specials available.

2. Gaylord Springs Golf Links

Best For: Golfers staying at Gaylord Opryland Resort, links style golf enthusiasts, and those seeking professional instruction.

Philosophy: Designed by former U.S. Open and PGA Champion Larry Nelson, Gaylord Springs Golf Links delivers a challenging Scottish links style experience along the banks of the Cumberland River. The facility is managed by Marriott Golf and maintains certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, demonstrating commitment to environmental stewardship.

Course Features:

Links Style Design: 18 holes bordered by limestone bluffs and federally protected wetlands, playing from 5,179 to 6,842 yards across five sets of tees.
Signature Holes: The par 4 fourth hole features a century old springhouse, while the challenging par 4 fifth requires a 454 yard carry over a large lake.
Course Conditions: Consistently ranked among the best courses in Tennessee, known for exceptional greens and well maintained fairways.

Amenities:

The Golf Institute: One of the leading instruction facilities in the Southeast, featuring SwingLab, FlightScope Launch Monitor, and V-One Swing Analysis technology.
Clubhouse: A stunning 43,000 square foot antebellum style clubhouse with dining, pro shop, and event space for up to 1,000 guests.
Resort Connection: Shuttle service available from Gaylord Opryland Resort, just five minutes away.

Location: 18 Springhouse Lane, Nashville, TN 37214 (10 minutes from Nashville International Airport)

Contact: (615) 458-1730 | gaylordsprings.com

Pricing: Weekday rates approximately $71, weekend rates approximately $81. Stay and play packages available through Gaylord Opryland Resort.

3. Harpeth Hills Golf Course

Best For: Budget conscious golfers, those seeking a challenging municipal course, and players who appreciate natural scenery.

Philosophy: Operated by Metro Nashville Parks, Harpeth Hills is widely respected as one of Tennessee’s top public golf facilities. The course emphasizes accessibility and value while delivering a championship caliber golfing experience amidst the beautiful rolling hills of Percy Warner Park.

Course Features:

Championship Layout: Par 72 design stretching 6,868 yards from the back tees, with a course rating of 73.1 and slope of 126.
Design History: Originally designed in 1965 by Allen Brown and Herschel Eaton, with an extensive renovation in 1991.
Green Conditions: New TifEagle ultra dwarf Bermuda greens installed in 2017 provide exceptional putting surfaces.
USGA Recognition: Regional qualifying site for the USGA Public Links Championship since 1991.

Amenities:

Clubhouse: Features one of the most picturesque views in Nashville, ideal for relaxing after a round.
Practice Facilities: Driving range available for warming up before your round.
Cart Rental: Riding carts available at $8 for 9 holes per player.

Location: 2424 Old Hickory Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37221 (Percy Warner Park area)

Contact: (615) 862-8493 | nashville.gov/parks/golf-courses/harpeth-hills-golf-course

Pricing: Weekday rates under $30, weekend rates under $40. Senior rates available for golfers 60 and over Monday through Thursday.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time of year to golf in Nashville?
Nashville offers golf year round, but the ideal seasons are spring (April through June) and fall (September through November) when temperatures are mild and courses are in peak condition. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers lower green fees but potential for weather delays. Most courses stay open throughout the year unless conditions are unsafe for play.

2. Do I need to reserve a tee time in advance?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Most Nashville courses allow online booking through their websites or golf booking platforms. Popular courses like Hermitage and Gaylord Springs can fill up quickly, so booking several days to a week in advance is advisable for weekend rounds.

3. What is the typical dress code at Nashville golf courses?
Most courses require proper golf attire, which includes collared shirts for men, golf appropriate shorts or pants (no jeans or athletic shorts), and soft spike or spikeless golf shoes. Some upscale facilities may have stricter requirements. Municipal courses like Harpeth Hills tend to be more relaxed but still expect respectful attire. Always check the specific course’s dress code before your round.

4. Are golf lessons available for beginners in Nashville?
Absolutely. Most Nashville courses offer instruction programs ranging from beginner clinics to advanced individual coaching. Gaylord Springs Golf Institute is particularly noted for its comprehensive instruction facility with advanced technology. Many local PGA professionals also offer private lessons at various courses throughout the area. Group lessons are typically more affordable than private instruction.

5. Can I walk the course or must I rent a cart?
Walking policies vary by course. Municipal courses like Harpeth Hills typically allow walking at all times. Resort and upscale daily fee courses may require carts during peak hours or have restrictions based on course conditions. Cart fees are usually additional to green fees. If walking is important to you, confirm the policy when booking your tee time.