10 Bucket List Destinations for Golf Fans
If you love the golf, then you'll want to check out these classic courses and memorable museums.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
One look at Pebble Beach Golf Links and it's easy to see why it's frequently named one of the best golf courses in the country. The meticulously cared for fairways and greens line the coast and million-dollar views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean greet players as they tee off. The course, which is open to the public, will host the 2019 PGA U.S. Open.
Arnold Palmer’s Golf House
Located in his hometown of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Arnold Palmer's Golf House is full of historic memorabilia and keepsakes from his illustrious career. It's also where Palmer's office and workshop is located. Considered one of the greatest golfers in this history of the game, the King's warehouse of collectibles includes thousands of neatly organized golf clubs, bags, trophies and letters written to him by fans known as "Arnie's Army." Check out an interactive tour here.
Championship Course at Royal County Down Golf Club
Rated as the best golf course outside the U.S. by Golf Digest, the Championship Course at Royal County Down Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf fan. Opened in 1889, this course blends into the rugged landscape and the views of the Mountains of Mourne are breathtaking.
The Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass
One of the most iconic holes in all of golf can be found at the Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. The 17th hole (pictured), or "Island Green," is a par-3, 132-yard nightmare that requires players to either reach the green in one attempt or else land in the surrounding water. The course, which was originally designed by Pete Dye, has hosted the PGA Players Championship since 1982.
World Golf Hall of Fame
Golf's greatest players are honored at the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine, Florida. Originally located in Pinehurst, North Carolina, the World Golf Hall of Fame was relocated to Florida in 1998 and merged with the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame. Inside, guests can experience interactive exhibits, including a golf simulator and an 18-hole natural-grass putting course. Not to be missed in the 88-foot-long Wall of Fame where inductees to the World Golf Hall of Fame are memorialized with a bronze plaque.
Augusta National Golf Club
Spring at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia is a special time of year. Every April, the private club welcomes the best golfers in the world to compete in the PGA Masters Tournament, the first of four majors played every year and arguably the most coveted. With blooming azaleas and dogwood-lined fairways, the course is as beautiful as they come.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of the most beautiful courses in the U.S. but also one of the most challenging. Players are treated to gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean at every hole but the ever-present coastal winds wreak havoc for even the most talented golfers. The South Carolina course will host the 2021 PGA Championship.
Old Course at St Andrews Links
Nicknamed the "home of golf," the Old Course at St Andrews Links is one of the oldest courses in the world. Despite its age, the Old Course is as challenging as it is picturesque. The "Road Hole Bunker" on the 17th hole (pictured) might be its most infamous attraction as its given many pros trouble throughout the years. Also not to be missed is the 700-year-old Swilcan Bridge spanning the first and 18th holes.
British Golf Museum
Located near the Old Course at St. Andrews, the British Golf Museum in Scotland covers 600 years of golf history. Inside, visitors will discover over 16,000 items, including clubs, balls, clothing and trophies, from golf's early beginnings to the modern game.
Ben Hogan Museum
The Ben Hogan Museum in Dublin, Texas, brilliantly tells the story of one of golf's greatest players. Hogan, who spent most of his childhood in Dublin, has nine career professional major championships and is one of only five players to have won all four major championships in his career. Hogan is known for being the best ball striker the game has ever seen and for his dramatic U.S. Open victory in 1950, just 16 months after he was nearly killed in an automobile accident.

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