We can’t think of a better way to soak in Lexington’s greenspace than spending some time on the links. Whether you’re looking to connect outdoors with friends or you’re honing in on the perfect swing, here are 14 golf courses to make a tee time at in the Horse Capital of the World.
Public courses
Gay Brewer, Jr. Course at Picadome, 469 Parkway Dr. | Picadome was built in 1927 and became the first public golf course in central Kentucky. It’s open year-round except for Christmas Day.
Kearney Hill Golf Links, 3403 Kearney Rd. | This Scottish links-style course has served as a host site for the PGA Boys and Girls Junior Championships, so you know its in good shape.
Lakeside Golf Course, 3725 Richmond Rd. | Enjoy unlimited range balls at this ~185 course adjacent to Jacobson Park. It features large greens, rolling terrain, as well as a pro shop + snack bar.
Meadowbrook Golf Course, 360 Wilson Downing Rd. | This course is walking only, takes around two hours to play, and is Lexington’s only short course with holes ranging in length from 87 to 270 yards.
Tates Creek Golf Course, 1400 Gainesway Dr. | Located on 125 acres in the heart of the Gainesway subdivision, this course features tight fairways and water hazards, as well as a short game practice area, a golf shop, and snack bar.
Idle Hour Country Club. | Photo by @switzerfilm + @switzerfilmweddings
Members only courses
Connemara, 2327 Lexington Rd., Nicholasville | Memberships are available, but the public is also welcome at this Jessamine County course which boasts manicured greens + Bill’s Saloon.
Griffin Gate Golf Club, 1800 Newtown Pike | This Lexington mainstay has a firm, yet fair + fun course. Choose from a variety of membership options like walking only, unlimited cart pass, and add on other amenities including resort or pool passes.
Keene Trace Golf Club, 5600 Harrodsburg Rd. | Home to the PGA TOUR Barbasol Championship tournament since 2018, this club boasts 36 holes. Plus, this “home away from home” features heated swimming pools, a pool house, bar + grill, and two hard tennis courts.
University Club of Kentucky, 4850 Leestown Rd. | Memberships are available, but the public is also invited to check out the ~14,000 yards of professionally maintained greens, plush fairways + sculpted bunkers that make up the two courses.
Lexington Country Club, 2550 Paris Pike | The ultimate golfer’s dream, LCC boasts an 18-hole, par 72 course, a driving range, a putting green, and a chipping/bunker green. There’s a spot halfway along the course for mid-play break with snacks, beverages, and restrooms.
Idle Hour Country Club, 1815 Richmond Rd. | This invitation only, private country club was founded in 1946 + consists of a clubhouse, dining facilities, golf course, tennis courts, fitness center, and swimming pool. Once you arrive, the golf pros will direct you to the locker room while setting up your cart for a day on the links.
Greenbrier Golf & Country Club, 2179 Bahama Rd. | This course was the host of the Children’s Charity Classic, a nationally recognized celebrity-amateur golf fundraiser. With expertly-maintained grounds and special activities for members, Greenbrier has become a local fan favorite.
Take it indoors
District 7 Social, 1170 Manchester St., Ste. 160 | If you’re hankering for more but can’t handle the weather, have no fear. At District 7 Social, you can enjoy access to golf simulators, as well as duckpin bowling, German food, and specially curated drinks at the bar.
The Yard, 117 West Hampton Dr. | If you can dream it, you can play it here at Lexington’s premier indoor sports facility. The PGA Tour Simulator will have you practicing your swing + angles on the driving range or play a round on classic courses from around the world.
Bluegrass Golf Academy, 2560 Palumbo Dr. Ste. 110 | Whether it’s your first time swinging a club, or you’re ready to take your game to the next level, this indoor coaching + practice facility has private instruction, small group for any type of golfer.
