Experience championship-level golf close to a vibrant college town, offering diverse courses from historic layouts to modern designs, all surrounded by Wisconsin's beautiful landscapes.
Top courses
Best golf courses in Madison
Editor-picked layouts ranked by prestige, conditioning and player experience.
#1
University Ridge Golf Course
Design by Robert Trent Jones Jr. · Par 72 · 7,289 yds
The official course of the Wisconsin Badgers, known for its challenging back nine and picturesque glacial drumlins. Play the back nine in the late afternoon for stunning views and a challenging finish.
ChallengingTraditional Parkland$90–150
#2
Pleasant View Golf Course
Design by Larry Packard (original 18), others for expansions · Par 72 · 6,700 yds
A well-maintained public course offering 27 holes with panoramic views of Lake Mendota and the Madison skyline. Play earlier in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere.
ModeratePrairie Links$50–70
#3
Nakoma Golf Club
Design by William Langford, Theodore Moreau · Par 70 · 6,418 yds
A historic private club designed by a legendary architect, offering a classic parkland experience in the heart of Madison. If you have a connection, playing here offers a glimpse into Madison's rich golf history.
Moderate-ChallengingClassic Parkland
#4
Hawk's Landing Golf Club
Design by Rick Jacobsen · Par 72 · 7,000 yds
A modern, immaculately conditioned course known for its strategic bunkering and undulating greens. Practice your short game before playing; the greens can be tricky.
ChallengingModern Traditional$70–120
Stay & play
Where to stay in Madison
Resort packages bundle lodging, rounds, range access, and on-site dining. Hotel-only options give you flexibility to course-hop.
The Edgewater Hotel
Luxury Hotel
A luxury hotel on Lake Mendota offering stunning views, upscale amenities, and easy access to downtown Madison.
Graduate Madison
Boutique Hotel
A quirky, stylish hotel near the University of Wisconsin campus, embracing local culture and comfort.
Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown
Mid-Range Hotel
A reliable and comfortable option offering convenient downtown access and complimentary breakfast.
Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown
Boutique Hotel
A modern boutique hotel with local art and a vibrant atmosphere, close to the Capitol Square.
Off the course
Things to do in Madison
Non-golf experiences worth building into your trip — from local landmarks to nature, food, and culture.
Wisconsin State Capitol Tour
Sightseeing
Explore the stunning architecture and history of the Wisconsin State Capitol building with a free guided tour.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Nature & Gardens
Wander through beautiful outdoor gardens and the tropical Bolz Conservatory, a tranquil escape.
Henry Vilas Zoo
Family Fun
Enjoy a free visit to this beloved zoo, home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world.
Kayaking on Lake Mendota
Outdoor Recreation
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and experience Madison's lakes from a unique perspective.
Dane County Farmers' Market
Local Experience
Visit the largest producer-only farmers' market in the nation, encircling the Capitol Square.
Itineraries
Sample itineraries
Choose your trip length. Each plan is built around the marquee courses, with rest, dining, and travel days dialed in.
1
Day 1
Arrive & warm up
Land at MSN, transfer to your hotel, hit the range, and grab a casual dinner at Harvest.
2
Day 2
Round 1 — University Ridge Golf Course
Morning tee time at University Ridge Golf Course. Lunch at the clubhouse, afternoon recovery, dinner at State Street Brats.
3
Day 3
Final round & departure
Early tee time at Hawk's Landing Golf Club, light lunch, then transfer back to MSN.
Budget
Budget breakdown · per golfer
Realistic ranges sourced from current resort rates, public green fees, and group dining averages.
Lodging
7 nights · $220/nt
$1,540
Golf
6 rounds · $128 avg
$768
Food & drink
~$110/day
$770
Ground transport
Rideshare + cart fees
$420
Flights
Search Skyscanner for live fares
Variable
Estimated total · per golfer
$3,498
Season
Best time of year to visit Madison
humid continental
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ideal Good Off-season
When to book: 3-6 months out
Dining
Where to eat in Madison
From clubhouse classics to chef-driven dinners worth a reservation.
Harvest
$$$$
New American
An upscale dining experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a sophisticated setting.
Graze
$$
Gastropub
A popular spot on Capitol Square offering elevated comfort food and craft beer.
State Street Brats
$
American (Wisconsin)
A Madison institution famous for its brats, burgers, and lively college-town atmosphere.
Tornado Steak House
$$$$
Steakhouse
A classic, no-frills supper club experience with excellent steaks and strong cocktails.
Sardine
$$$
French-American
A chic bistro offering French-inspired dishes and seafood with beautiful lake views.
Merchant
$$$
Farm-to-Table
Known for its craft cocktails and seasonal small plates, prioritizing fresh, local ingredients.
After dark
Nightlife in Madison
Where the buddy trips end up after the 19th hole.
The Old Fashioned
Bar/Restaurant
A quintessential Wisconsin tavern serving classic cocktails, local beers, and comfort food.
High Noon Saloon
Music Venue
A popular live music venue showcasing a variety of local and national acts.
Gib's Bar
Cocktail Bar
A cozy, speakeasy-style bar known for its creative cocktails and relaxed ambiance.
Tee times
Book tee times in Madison
Live inventory from GolfNow plus flight comparison from Skyscanner. Prices update in real time.
FAQ
Madison golf trip FAQs
What is the best time of year to golf in Madison?
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Summer-Fall (Sep, Jun). humid continental
How much does a golf trip to Madison cost?
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Plan on $1,540–$3,300 per golfer for a 7-night trip including lodging, rounds, food and ground transport. Flights are extra.
What airport should I fly into for Madison?
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MSN, about 35 miles from the resort area. Most national hubs offer non-stop service via MSN.
How many days should I plan for a Madison golf trip?
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7 nights is the sweet spot — enough for 6 full rounds plus a rest or sightseeing day.
Is Madison good for buddy trips?
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Yes — popular with couples, corporate. Quieter evenings, ideal for golf-focused groups.
Ready to book
Book your Madison golf trip
See how Madison compares for your dates, budget and group, then build the courses, lodging and itinerary with your crew.