Playing a course from Golf Magazine's Top 100 You Can Play list is a dream for most serious golfers, but figuring out how to make it a reality can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down exactly what this prestigious list is, how to get yourself a tee time at these legendary tracks, and what to do to prepare your game so you can enjoy every moment. We'll give you a clear roadmap to turn that bucket-list goal into an unforgettable experience on the course.
First, let's clear up some confusion. Golf Magazine publishes several "Top 100" lists, including the "Top 100 in the World" and "Top 100 in the U.S." Those rankings are dominated by hyper-exclusive private clubs like Augusta National, Pine Valley, and Cypress Point - courses most of us will only ever see on television. The "Top 100 You Can Play" list is different and, frankly, far more exciting for the everyday player. Every single course on this list is accessible to the public in some way.
This is your list. It’s a curated collection of the absolute best architectural designs, landscapes, and golf experiences in the country that you can actually book and play. It's the ultimate roadmap for golf travel, featuring everything from grand resorts to rugged municipal layouts. Seeing it not as an untouchable ranking, but as a checklist of achievable adventures, is the first step toward teeing it up on one.
"Public access" doesn't always mean you can just walk up and pay a green fee. These courses fall into several categories, and understanding them is the key to planning your trip. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of courses on the list and how to approach booking a tee time ateach.
These are the household names - the courses that host major championships and are synonymous with world-class golf. They are expensive, but gaining access is relatively straightforward if you plan ahead.
Many of the best public courses are the centerpieces of destination golf resorts. To play them, you typically need to stay on the property. This is a fantastic model for a golf vacation, as these resorts are built from the ground up to cater to golfers.
Arguably the most awe-inspiring courses on the list are the ones owned and operated by a state, county, or city. Their green fees are a fraction of the big resorts, making them an incredible value. The challenge isn't the price - it's securing that coveted tee time.
Securing the tee time is only half the battle. These courses are in the Top 100 for a reason - they are architecturally significant, strategically demanding, and can be punishing if you're not prepared. The goal isn't just to play, it's to enjoy the experience. Here's a coach's advice on how to get your game ready.
Don't show up blind. A little homework goes a long way and deepens your appreciation for what you're about to experience.
Tour pros don’t just show up and swing away, and neither should you. A smart game plan is about maximizing your enjoyment, not shooting the course record.
The biggest disparity between average golf courses and Top 100 courses is around the greens. Elite courses feature firm, fast, and undulating putting surfaces with complex bunkering and collection areas. Your short game will be tested more than any other part of your game.
Playing the courses on Golf Magazine's "Top 100 You Can Play" list is more than just a round of golf, it's an adventure. By understanding how to navigate the booking systems for different types of courses and thoughtfully preparing your game, you can transform this golfer's dream into an accessible and deeply rewarding reality.
When you're finally standing on the first tee of that bucket-list course, the pressure can be intense. That’s where we can step in and make a big difference. I designed Caddie AI to be the expert voice you need in those moments. Instead of second-guessing yourself on a world-class design, you can get clear, simple guidance on hole strategy, club selection, and even what to do from those tricky lies you've never seen before. It helps you manage the course without the guesswork, so you're free to focus on what matters most: hitting your shot with confidence and enjoying an incredible walk.
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