These top-notch courses give golfers plenty of options to play
Ankeny Golf and Country Club
Be prepared for hole one—it’s the longest and toughest on the course. See if you can come close to four strokes. The nine-hole course has plenty of other challenges, including creeks, stands of trees, uphills and sloping greens.
Briarwood Golf Club
This 18-hole course starts out challenging, with three par 5s on the first four holes. Also play plenty of par 4s to challenge your abilities; lengthy hole 11 is one of the toughest.
Otter Creek Golf Course
Designed by Minnesota’s Paul Miller, the city-owned par 71 course is links-style and has challenges, including 44 bunkers, 17 ponds, rolling hills and plenty of tall grasses to camouflage the ball. An after-game drink and dinner at the Tin Cup Bar & Grille on-site is a must. The 18-hole course suits all player levels (they offer lessons and is considered one of the best in Iowa). Book tee times online or through the pro shop.
Woodland Hills Golf Course
Sited on the south side of town, this 18-hole course features a tough back nine. Sand traps and tall rough make for some challenges, as do the trees. Book all 18 holes or try the par-29 executive nine course, which plays in about an hour and is perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Fun Fact
Ankeny boasts one of Iowa’s wealthiest individuals, Denny Albaugh, and he’s got his own private course, Talons of Tuscany Golf Club. His course is open for select tournaments and private events, if you’re lucky to swing an invite.
