Bay Meadows Family Golf Course in Traverse City offers a welcoming 18-hole executive-style layout that suits golfers of all levels. Known for its excellent practice facilities and balanced design, it’s a prime destination for families and players seeking enjoyable rounds with reliable conditions.
Bay Meadows Family Golf Course in Traverse City offers an inviting and well-maintained 18-hole experience that balances approachability with subtle challenges. Designed primarily as an executive-style layout, the course features a blend of par-3 and par-4 holes that invite players of all skill levels to engage comfortably with the game. Its compact design provides a thoughtful progression for beginners looking to build confidence and for more experienced players seeking crisp shot-making in a relaxed environment.
The course’s overall setting is defined by lush fairways and strategically placed bunkers that require attention to placement and club selection without imposing undue difficulty. Mature trees frame many holes, lending a quiet, green backdrop that softens the surroundings without restricting the flow of play. This is a place where the gentle rise and fall of the terrain, combined with well-maintained greens, encourage precise putting and shot creativity.
Bay Meadows’s practice facilities stand out as among the best in the Traverse City area. The driving range is expansive and managed to keep grass in prime condition despite heavy use. Three dedicated practice greens provide ample room for players to hone their short game, making the course as valuable for skill development as for casual rounds.
While the layout is designed with families and casual players in mind, it retains enough strategic elements to engage low handicappers. The course is especially welcoming for groups with mixed abilities, offering a pace of play suited to social rounds without sacrificing quality golf.
The friendly staff contribute to the warm atmosphere, enhancing the experience with helpful service from the pro shop and practice areas. Rental clubs and carts are readily available, making it easy for travelers or locals without equipment to jump in.
For those planning a visit, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, though carts are offered for convenience. Tee times can fill quickly during peak seasons, so planning ahead is advised. Bay Meadows Family Golf Course embodies the spirit of accessible golf, making it a top choice for families, beginners, and golfers looking to sharpen skills in Traverse City’s scenic setting.
The course features an engaging mix of par-3 and par-4 holes, framed by mature trees and well-positioned bunkers that enhance strategic play without overwhelming beginners. Its driving range and three sizable practice greens are among the finest in the region, supporting skill development for all players. The layout flows smoothly toward the clubhouse, encouraging a social round that suits families and casual groups.
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
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5550 Bay Meadows Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684, USA
Modern clubhouse with pro shop and rental services
Walking encouraged; terrain is gentle with well-maintained cart paths; comfortable footwear advised
Open daily to the public; advance reservations recommended during peak seasons