The 5 Must-Visit Public Golf Courses in Atlanta, GA

The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta metropolitan area in Georgia boasts a range of challenging public golf courses that test the skills of golfers at all levels. Known for its stunning landscapes and meticulously maintained greens, this region offers a memorable golfing experience. Here’s a list of the five most difficult public golf courses in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta area, ranked from least to most difficult, with two honorable mentions for those looking for a slightly less intense experience.

5. Coweta Club at Arbor Springs

Coweta Club at Arbor Springs Tee Times

Location: Newnan, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 7056
Slope: 145
Rating: 74.7

Coweta Club at Arbor Springs offers a challenging layout with well-maintained fairways and greens. The course features a variety of holes that require strategic play and precise shot-making. Golfers appreciate the course’s scenic beauty and the friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite among local golfers.

4. Cherokee Run Country Club

Cherokee Run Country Club Tee Times

Location: Conyers, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 7016
Slope: 143
Rating: 75.1

Cherokee Run Golf Club is an Arnold Palmer Signature course located in Conyers, Georgia, about 30 minutes east of Atlanta. The course opened in 1995 and is situated within the Georgia International Horse Park. Cherokee Run Golf Club has been rated as one of the top public facilities in the greater Atlanta area and has been Golf Advisor’s highest-rated course for seven consecutive years, reaching a peak rating of no. 6 in 2021. The par-72 layout offers a gorgeous, tree-lined hilly design, ranging from just under 5,000 yards to a little over 7,000 yards, making it a challenge for golfers of all abilities. The course features 91 bunkers, several water features and thick Georgia Pines hugging the fairways. There are also lakes and ponds that come into play on about a third of the holes. The ninth and 10th holes are the course’s no. 1 and no. 2 handicap holes, respectively. The ninth is a 463-yard hole from the tips, while the dogleg right 10th measures 448 yards and features an all-carry approach over water to the green. The final four holes are called “The Trail of Tears,” a tribute to the Native American relocation in the 1800s. Cherokee Run Golf Club also boasts a driving range, short-game area, and practice green. The golf shop has a vast selection of gear and apparel, and the clubhouse restaurant is open every day for golfers and non-golfers alike. The “Palmer Room” is also available for special events and occasions.

3. Eagles Brooke Golf and Country Club

Eagles Brooke Golf and Country Club Tee Times

Location: Locust Grove, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 7490
Slope: 141
Rating: 76.1

Eagles Brooke Golf and Country Club provides golfers of all levels a challenging yet enjoyable experience with picturesque views. The course boasts well-maintained fairways and greens that are sure to test your skills. The staff is knowledgeable and can provide helpful tips to improve your gameplay. Whether you are a local looking for a regular course or a visitor seeking a new golf destination, Eagles Brooke Golf and Country Club is an ideal choice.

2. Azalea – Bobby Jones Golf Course

Azalea – Bobby Jones Golf Course Tee Times

Location: Atlanta, GA
Hardest Tees: Blue
Yards: 3649
Slope: 131
Rating: 74.9

Experience one of the most unique and groundbreaking golf courses in the United States at the new Bobby Jones. This revolutionary course features a reversible design, allowing for two different courses known as our Magnolia and Azalea courses. Each course offers multiple tees and large double greens, providing two pin placements on each green. Not only can you play the course twice for a complete 18 holes, but you can also play in one direction one day and the exact opposite direction the next for two completely different golf experiences. This remarkable design was created by the renowned Bob Cupp and will be the only golf course of its kind in the country. Come see for yourself why the new Bobby Jones is a must-play for any avid golfer.

1. Echelon Golf Club

Echelon Golf Club Tee Times

Location: Alpharetta, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 7558
Slope: 154
Rating: 77.8

Echelon Golf Club, formerly known as the Georgia Tech Club, is a Rees Jones signature top-ranked Championship Golf Course located just outside of Atlanta in Alpharetta. Covering over 600 acres with lakes and gently rolling hills, this 18-hole private golf course features striking elevation changes and Bentgrass greens. Recently, it has won the hearts of many public golfers and the respect of its members. Book a tee time today to become a Member for a Day and enjoy the challenge of playing on one of the best-conditioned golf courses available for limited public play for a short period of time. Experience great golf at Echelon Golf Club, where it’s pure and simple.

Honorable Mentions

Durham Lakes Country Club

Durham Lakes Country Club Tee Times

Location: Fairburn, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 7070
Slope: 146
Rating: 74.6

Durham Lakes Country Club offers a challenging layout with well-maintained fairways and greens. The course features a variety of holes that require strategic play and precise shot-making. Golfers appreciate the course’s scenic beauty and the friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite among local golfers.

Red – The Georgia Club

Red – The Georgia Club Tee Times

Location: Statham, GA
Hardest Tees: Black
Yards: 3598
Slope: 133
Rating: 74.6

Red – The Georgia Club in Statham is known for its beautiful and challenging layout. The course features well-maintained fairways and greens, providing an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels. The Black tees offer a good test, making it a popular choice among local golfers.

The Atlanta, GA, area offers a variety of challenging public golf courses that cater to golfers looking to test their skills. Whether you’re aiming for the top spots or seeking a tough but enjoyable round, these courses provide a unique and exciting golfing experience.