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9 Reasons To Play Golf In Auburn-Opelika

Looking for an unforgettable golf escape amidst beautiful landscapes and championship-caliber courses? Nestled within the Alabama pines lie distinguished courses that draw in golf enthusiasts to travel from across the world.

ROBERT TRENT JONES GRAND NATIONAL

Renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones designed or remodeled over 500 courses worldwide. Some of his claims to fame include the renovation of Augusta National and Spyglass Hill Golf Course located in Pebble Beach, California. Robert Trent Jones Grand National sits on 600-acre Lake Saughatchee and offers a challenging yet enjoyable design. All three courses at Grand National offer a unique experience that you will not forget.

EXCEPTIONAL COURSE QUALITY

Grand National has been voted the #1 public golf facility in America by the readers of Golf World, and RTJ himself is on record saying, "Grand National was the single greatest natural site for a golf course" that he had ever seen.

PINES CROSSING

Originally established in the 70s, Pines Crossing Golf Course closed in early 2023 for a full redesign and renovations. The new layout reflects a tie between old and new and the course location on the line between Auburn and Opelika. The redesigned 18-hole public golf course is a par 72 course measuring 7,031 yards and offers a variety of tees for all skill levels. Pines Crossing’s new design included an upgrade to TifEagle Bermuda greens and TifTuf Bermuda fairways. This new grass is more resilient to foot traffic, uses less water, stays green, and stays healthy in the shade, leaving players with healthy turf year-round.

GOLF YEAR-ROUND

Being in the South allows for a favorable climate that allows for golfing opportunities year-round. With the subtropical climate and mild winters, golf courses in the region can undergo maintenance to ensure players can tee it up year-round. It is not uncommon to see people golfing in shorts and a polo in the middle of December or January!

DIVERSITY OF COURSES

Between the Links Course, Lake Course, and Short Course at Grand National and the addition of Pines Crossing, the Auburn-Opelika area has a variety of different courses and challenges. The Links course features tighter fairways and dog leg turns, while on The Lake course, golfers face off against more water hazards. The par-three Short Course has steep approach shot areas with a mix of water and bunkers, and Pines Crossing has a mix of it all with pine trees striping each fairway.

GRAB A BITE AND BREW AFTER ROUND

After a memorable round there is nothing better than sittting with your group to recount the best and worst shots of the day over a good beer and quality food. Luckily, AO boasts a selection of rustic breweries, each with their own charm. Among Red Clay Brewing’s options is it's award-winning Cherry Cider and locally named Big Swamp Stout. Just down the street, Resting Pulse offers a rotating beer menu and live music every Friday and Saturday night. Learn more about nightlife here.

EASY TO TRAVEL TO AND STAY

The convenience of flying in and driving over from Atlanta is unmatched. Nine domestic airlines service Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and offer direct, non-stop access from more than 150 U.S. cities. In addition to Atlanta, American Airlines services Montgomery Regional, and four major airlines service Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International | Learn more about how easy it is to get here.

The Auburn Marriot and Opelika Resort and Spa is conveniently located on the same grounds as RTJ Grand National. With over 35 other hotels in the area there are plenty of rooms available to visitors.

SOUTHERN CHARM

In addition to the year-round, world-class golf, you will experience exceptional service throughout the area. Auburn and Opelika epitomize the classic southern charm that is so famous. Locals' friendly demeanor, deep-rooted sense of politeness, and helpful attitudes are sure to leave a lasting impression. From hotels and restaurants to local businesses, there’s an emphasis on providing a high standard of customer service and making visitors feel at home.

LOCAL CUTLTURE AND ATTRACTIONS

Auburn and Opelika are neighboring towns, and each offers a small walkable downtown. Both possess their own unique cultural elements and distinctive charm. In the heart of Auburn’s identity is the university. The clash of college and small Southern town provides a diverse dining scene from local favorites to international cuisines. Opelika is a historic railroad town, with a charming historic downtown lined with antique shops and classic and upscale dining. The Southern food and breweries are not something that you want to miss.