Best states in the north of America for golf trips

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The northern United States is one of the best regions to organize a golf trip with friends. The climate is generally milder in summer compared to the South, making peak-season rounds far more comfortable. 

From the Great Lakes to the Pacific Northwest, here are some of the top northern states to consider for your next golf getaway.

Michigan

Michigan has earned the nickname “America’s Summer Golf Capital” for good reason. With 859 tracks, it boasts the third-highest number of tracks in the country. The state has hosted multiple major events, including the 2004 Ryder Cup at Oakland Hills Country Club.

Beyond tournament venues, Michigan offers a deep roster of bucket-list courses. Crystal Downs Country Club consistently ranks among the nation’s best, while Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club pairs dramatic Lake Michigan views with championship-caliber design. Recent rankings continue to place Michigan among the top golf states in the country, highlighting both the quality and depth of courses.

Minnesota

Minnesota is home to more than 500 golf courses, and remarkably, around 90% are public. That means visitors have broad access to elite layouts without needing private connections. Standouts include The Quarry at Giants Ridge and Hazeltine National, a Ryder Cup and PGA Championship host venue.

The golf season typically spans about seven months due to winter weather. As a result, many locals opt for golf simulator installation in Minnesota to keep their swings sharp during the off-season. This dedication to year-round improvement speaks to the state’s deep golf culture.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin has quickly become a must-visit golf destination. Courses such as Whistling Straits, Erin Hills, and Sand Valley have hosted major championships and earned national acclaim. 

One major advantage of traveling groups is proximity. Many of the state’s top-ranked courses sit within an hour of each other, making it easy to play multiple premier layouts in a single trip. Recent national features continue to spotlight Wisconsin as one of America’s premier golf destinations.

Oregon

Oregon may be known for rain, but its prime golf season runs from late spring through early fall, with calmer winds arriving toward autumn. The state features over 200 acclaimed courses, many open to the public.

Bandon Dunes remains the headline attraction, with multiple world-class courses along the coast. In Central Oregon, Pronghorn Resort, Aspen Lakes, and Sheep Ranch offer scenic, high-desert golf experiences. For players seeking picturesque landscapes and top-tier public access, Oregon delivers a memorable northern golf adventure.