Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was just named the #1 Golf Destination in the United States by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

Voted on by travelers and backed by expert nominations, this recognition confirms what golfers who’ve played here have known all along: the U.P. delivers an unforgettable playing experience for golfers of all levels. 

 

Why U.P. Golf Took Top Votes

Here, rounds are shaped by the landscape. Courses wind through dense forests, climb rugged terrain and open to sweeping views of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. It’s not just about playing 18 holes; it’s about being immersed in a place that feels wild, scenic and refreshingly uncrowded.

With more than 50 public courses across the region, golfers can build an itinerary that blends challenge, beauty and variety all without the crowds found in more traditional golf destinations.

Courses That Define the Experience

The U.P.’s top-ranked status is powered by a collection of standout courses that continue to earn national attention:

  • Greywalls Course (Marquette Golf Club)
    A bucket-list course known for its dramatic elevation changes, exposed rock formations and panoramic Lake Superior views.

  • Sweetgrass & Sage Run (Island Resort & Casino, Harris)
    Two award-winning courses offering completely distinct experiences from classic, flowing design to bold, modern play.

  • TimberStone Golf Course (Iron Mountain)
    A perennial favorite, blending pristine conditions with a scenic Northwoods setting.

These and many more across the region create a golf experience that feels both elevated and authentically U.P.

More Than a Golf Trip

Between rounds, you’ll find:

  • Waterfalls, hiking trails and miles of Great Lakes shoreline

  • Scenic drives with unforgettable views

  • Local restaurants, breweries and welcoming small towns

It’s the kind of destination where golf is just the beginning.

Stay and Play: Plan Your #1 Golf Getaway

Whether you’re planning a buddies’ trip, a couples escape or your next golf adventure, there’s never been a better time to experience the Upper Peninsula. With national recognition, the U.P. will be on every golfer’s radar this season, so book early to secure your preferred tee times, lodging and travel dates.

We can’t wait for you to discover just how incredible golf in the U.P. truly is.

Top Reason to Golf in the U.P.:

  • Scenic Public Courses: Numerous public golf courses with layouts ranging from family-friendly to tournament-level.
  • Unforgettable Views: Towering pines, glistening inland lakes, elevation changes and panoramic vistas.
  • Quiet Serenity: The Upper Peninsula is one of the most peaceful, unspoiled regions in the country.
  • Fall Golf: Brilliant autumn foliage offers one of the most beautiful backdrops you’ll ever play through.
  • Value & Access: Affordable greens fees, uncrowded fairways and tee times you don’t have to book weeks in advance.
  • Beyond the Course: Enjoy local breweries, mouthwatering cuisine and nearby adventures from hiking to paddling.

No matter your handicap or how often you play, there’s a course in the U.P. that will surprise and inspire you. Timber Stone Golf Course in Iron Mountain, designed by Jerry Matthews, is renowned for its stunning elevation changes and lush, forested surroundings. Sweetgrass Golf Club in Harris, part of the Island Resort & Casino, features a prairie-links style layout with strategic bunkering and water features. Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club presents dramatic vistas and rugged terrain, providing a memorable experience for golfers seeking a test of skill amid breathtaking scenery. These courses, among others in the region, contribute to the U.P.'s growing reputation as a premier golf destination.

 

Plan Your Trip

Book a cozy hotel or lakeside resort, and take time to research the perfect restaurant, local winery or craft brewery to unwind after your round. When you're not on the course, explore charming small towns, scenic trails and hidden gems across the U.P.—whether you're chasing a personal best, escaping for the weekend with friends or planning a relaxed couples’ retreat, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is your perfect golf destination.