Michigan's golf courses are a testament to the state's commitment to the sport, with seven of the top 200 modern courses in the United States, according to Golfweek. This ranking, released in June 2026, showcases the state's rich history in golf course design and construction. The criteria for inclusion are stringent, requiring courses to have been opened since 1960 and to have received a minimum of 25 votes from Golfweek's panel of raters, who have played rounds in the past decade. This emphasis on recent design and construction techniques highlights the evolution of golf course architecture and the sport's popularity surge post-1960.
One of the standout courses is Wuskowhan Players Club, designed by Rick Smith and Warren Henderson, which boasts an impressive average rating of 6.80. Located in West Olive, this private course opened in 1996 and offers a unique golfing experience. Similarly, Forest Dunes, designed by Tom Doak, has an average rating of 6.94 and is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, especially with its reversible 18-hole design.
Marquette Golf Club, known as Greywalls, is another gem, designed by Mike DeVries and opening in 2005. Its average rating of 6.95 and the 2025 ranking of T130 make it a top choice for daily fee golfers. The course's unique design and the experience it offers are highly praised.
Lost Dunes, also designed by Tom Doak, has an average rating of 6.96 and a 2025 ranking of T139, making it a private course worth exploring. Arcadia Bluffs, with its average rating of 7.21 and a 2025 ranking of 91, offers a stunning combination of golf, lake views, and sunsets, making it a top-rated public course.
Dunes Club, designed by Dick Nugent, and Kingsley Club, designed by Mike DeVries, both have impressive average ratings of 7.39 and 7.61, respectively, and are ranked 56th and 37th in the 2025 rankings. These courses showcase the diversity of Michigan's golf offerings, from private to public, and from coastal to inland settings.
The ranking of Michigan's golf courses is a testament to the state's rich golfing history and its commitment to maintaining high standards in course design and construction. The courses listed above are a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, offering a range of experiences and challenges that cater to all skill levels.
