Maryland’s Best Golf Courses: An Insider’s Look

Maryland’s Best Golf Courses: An Insider’s Look

If you find yourself in Maryland and you’re a golf enthusiast, you’re in for a real treat! The state is home to some outstanding golf courses that have made it onto the elite lists of the Top 100 Courses in the U.S. This year, golf aficionados had a hand in rating these greens through an extensive process that combined expert opinions and personal experience. So, if you’re looking to hit the links, let’s dive into the best golf courses Maryland has to offer!

1. Congressional — Blue (Bethesda)

First up is the legendary Congressional — Blue course, located just outside our nation’s capital. This course isn’t just another pretty face. After a century of various architectural changes that started to compromise its essence, the club decided it needed a makeover. Enter Andrew Green, a name that’s been making waves in the golf design world.

Green took the reins and unleashed a total transformation that honors the course’s rich history. Now, it boasts a modern layout that feels like it has been there forever! You’ll find yourself navigating through a series of challenges, especially on holes 7 through 9. The 7th hole features a par-3 that demands you to carry your shot over the deepest greenside bunker, while the par-4 8th gives you a brief but tantalizing sense of relief before the rollercoaster ride of the 600-plus yard 9th. Trust me; this course will grab your attention!

2. Baltimore — Five Farms East

Moving on to Five Farms East, situated in Baltimore, you’ve got yourself a real hidden gem. The course is set on rolling terrain, making it an absolute delight to play. Designed by the famous Tillinghast, Five Farms skillfully utilizes its natural elevation changes for a routing that includes some of the most fascinating greens you’ll ever encounter.

The course restoration has been a game-changer, too. With expanded greens and fairways, you’ll find countless angle options that keep your strategy fresh and engaging. If you somehow manage to score an invitation to play here, you better drop everything and go. Your golfing buddies will be super jealous!

3. Burning Tree (Bethesda)

Next, we stop by the prestigious Burning Tree course. This private club adds to Maryland’s stellar reputation within the golfing community. It’s a mature course featuring beautifully manicured landscapes that provide a challenging yet fulfilling experience.

4. Columbia Country Club (Chevy Chase)

A more traditional course that can’t be overlooked is the Columbia Country Club. This golf course has been a staple since its inception, showcasing classic architecture and outstanding maintenance. You’ll enjoy its beautiful setting while also refining your skills on its lush fairways.

5. Caves Valley (Owings Mills)

Last but not least, let’s talk about Caves Valley in Owings Mills. This beauty has earned its accolades and rightly so. With a winding layout and stunning views, it’s perfect for both serious golfers and those seeking a leisurely round with friends.

How Rankings Are Determined

Now, you might be wondering how these courses made their way onto the prestigious lists. The ranking system involved a panel of over 100 experts who assessed 609 courses across the U.S. Each course had to be graded within specific “buckets,” helping create a cumulative score based on massive voter participation. This ensures that no single opinion dominates the rankings, giving weight to a broad spectrum of golfing experiences.

This democratic approach to rankings means that you get a truly representative picture of the best courses out there. So, whether you’re an avid golfer or just a casual player looking to have some fun, Maryland has some fantastic options waiting for you—all you have to do is grab your clubs and hit the fairways!