Ever since the 1960s, Branson has been one of the hottest destinations in the country. From the spectacular shows to the exhilarating attractions, it consistently evolved remaining the ideal vacation spot for millions of people each year. However, there is much more to the area than just the thrills and excitement of The Strip and Silver Dollar City! Upon removing oneself from the chaotic traffic of town, Branson reveals it’s hidden tranquil nature. The bustling trees. The crystal waters. The humming of tiny critters and the croaking of frogs. It’s all here, but often masked behind the glitz and glamour of shopping and entertainment. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Branson’s rustic world, but perhaps the most unsurpassed option is one of the area’s quickest growing activities: golfing.
This peaceful outdoor sport has become a trademark pastime in Branson over years, with many incredible courses developing in the area. The annual PGA Tour Champions even deemed Branson fit to host one of its tournaments: The Legends of Golf. During your vacation, you can experience the full thrill of the swing while admiring the incredible scenery. Even the most casual players will enjoy this, if not simply for the beauty these areas have to offer.
You can’t mention the word “golf” around Branson without hearing about the unbelievable Big Cedar Golf courses. This gorgeous location contains the most high-end courses in the area. Every course here is heavily inspired by the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Top of the Rock, designed by the renowned Jack Nicklaus and hosting grounds of The Legends of Golf, features breathtaking views from high above Table Rock Lake. It also welcomes visitors to enjoy the beautifully designed Practice Facility and driving range by the world-famous Arnold Palmer, as well as Arnie’s Barn, a magnificent 150-year-old barn relocated from Palmer’s backyard in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. The barn has been carefully equipped to house countless historic memorabilia and photographs from Palmer’s career achievements. Golf icon Gary Player has also designed a masterpiece at the Big Cedar courses: Mountain Top. After several thousand hours of shoveling and picking, the area revealed an incredible display of 300-million-year-old limestone formations. This has led to an unforgettable golfing experience that no player will ever forget. The architect duo Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw contribute to this list of amazing world-class golf courses with their beautifully designed Ozarks National, complete with spectacular views and fascinating features such as a 400 ft. wooden beam and plank bridge. Finally, there is the stunning Buffalo Ridge Springs Course. Formally known as “Branson Creek Golf Club”, this highly acclaimed driving golf course was recently transformed by legendary conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, and renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio. The two successfully created a seamless conversion between the wonderous natural beauty of the Ozarks and the gentleman’s sport. All-new water features, bunkers, plentiful vegetation, and free ranging buffalo have rightfully earned this course its rating as the #1 Public Course in Missouri by Golf Magazine.
Speaking of Big Cedar, something magnificent is in development to challenge the most practiced players. Ozarks-native and World Golf Hall of Fame member Payne Stewart will soon receive a well-deserved tribute course designed by legendary golfing icon Tiger Woods and Johnny Morris. They are currently in the final stages of production, and this will serve as the first public TGR Design golf course in the United States, as well as the newest addition to the other incredible courses at Big Cedar. It will feature 19 holes with countless strategic opportunities for recovery and creativity. Surrounded by gorgeous natural rock and streams, this up and coming experience will set a par unrivaled by others. Be sure to visit again later in 2019 for the grand opening of Payne’s Valley!
While staying in Branson Creek, you have the easiest access to these world-class courses. At Tee Time Villa, you’re just minutes away from Buffalo Ridge Springs. This villa features a gorgeous fully furnished kitchen and living area where you will enjoy relaxing by the fireplace. For larger golf retreat groups, Putters Paradise offers room for up to 12 people! This household certainly offers all the features of the ideal “home away from home.” For added entertainment, your family will enjoy an epic movie night on the lower level projector screen, or even a retro game showdown on the NES and SNES game systems! When you’re not swinging away on the golf course, Branson Creek’s vacation rentals will be sure to keep the fun going.
Voted the #1 Course in Missouri from 2012 until 2016, Branson Hills Golf Club is another unforgettable spot to tee off. This public course incorporates all the natural rock outcroppings, vegetation, and waterfalls to create one of the most beautiful locations you’ll visit in Branson. Though sometimes challenging, the Club’s courses are entirely public and suited for all varying experiences of golfers. When you stay at one of the various villas in Branson Hills, such as Quaint Quarters, you’ll also have prime access to the satisfying Magnolia Bar and Grille. Nothing is better than a cold drink with some delicious food after a long day out on the course!
When you’re not experiencing the exhilaration of Silver Dollar City, LedgeStone Country Club will grant you the peace you’ll need for a day away from the crowds. This is considered one of Branson’s best public driving Mountain Golf Courses, and certainly lives up to the reputation. The delicate layout challenges players to consider each shot while focusing on accurate distance control. This allows for a truly rewarding experience for everyone. To top off the evening, you’ll enjoy an exquisite meal at the Ledgestone Grille, which boasts some of the area’s greatest restaurant reviews. While staying at one of the many beautiful lodges or homes in Stonebridge, such as Par View Vista, all the amenities of LedgeStone are right outside your door!
There are several other award-winning courses around Branson with unbeatable affordable prices! Thousand Hills Golf Resort asserts a 4-Stars rating by Golf Digest while also featuring 9 Par 3 holes, leading to a faster play time. At The Pointe, you’re nestled right along the banks of Lake Taneycomo for a heavily immersive nature experience. And at Holiday Hills Golf Club, the hybrid Bermuda fairways welcome all levels of players to a truly breathtaking scenery. Sunset Nightly Rentals is proud to offer lodging at all these locations, as well. You are never more than a few minutes away from the beauty of the course.
The praise and awards speak for themselves. Branson is rapidly developing into a highly successful golfing vacation destination. For more options and ideas to “stay where you play,” visit Sunset Nightly Rentals online or call our office at (877) 784-4614 from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.