North Carolina Research Triangle · NC

Raleigh-Durham

NC • North Carolina Research Triangle

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Best season

Spring-Fall

Apr · May · Sep · Oct

Trip cost · per golfer

$1,600–$4,300

4-night trip

Nearest airport

RDU

47 mi · RDU

Difficulty

mixed

Handicap 5–15

Overview

Why play Raleigh-Durham

The Raleigh-Durham area in North Carolina's Research Triangle offers a compelling blend of top-tier golf, vibrant urban experiences, and Southern charm, making it a fantastic destination for a golf getaway.

Top courses

Best golf courses in Raleigh-Durham

Editor-picked layouts ranked by prestige, conditioning and player experience.

Duke University Golf Club

Design by Robert Trent Jones Sr. · Par 72 · 7,045 yds

A classic Robert Trent Jones Sr. Walking this course adds to the experience, but it's quite hilly so consider a caddie or cart.

ChallengingClassic Parkand$120–180

Lonnie Poole Golf Course at NC State University

Design by Arnold Palmer Design Company · Par 71 · 7,035 yds

An Arnold Palmer signature course offering strategic bunkering and stunning views of the Raleigh skyline. Take advantage of the expansive practice facilities, they are some of the best in the area.

Moderate-ChallengingModern Parkand$90–150

Tobacco Road Golf Club

Design by Mike Strantz · Par 71 · 6,554 yds

A Mike Strantz masterpiece famous for its dramatic elevation changes, vast waste areas, and unique character. Don't be afraid to lay up on some holes; aggressive play can be heavily penalized here.

Very ChallengingDramatic, Visionary$150–250

Old Chatham Golf Club

Design by Tom Fazio · Par 72 · 7,209 yds

An exclusive, Tom Fazio-designed private club offering pristine conditions and a serene, upscale golf experience. If you have a connection, this is an undeniable must-play for a true luxury experience.

ChallengingCarolina Traditional

Stay & play

Where to stay in Raleigh-Durham

Resort packages bundle lodging, rounds, range access, and on-site dining. Hotel-only options give you flexibility to course-hop.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa

Luxury Hotel

A five-star luxury hotel renowned for its exquisite service, beautiful grounds, and world-class spa.

The Durham Hotel

Boutique Hotel

A stylish, mid-century modern hotel in downtown Durham featuring a popular rooftop bar and vibrant atmosphere.

Graduate Chapel Hill

Themed Hotel

A charming, quirky hotel near UNC with college-themed decor and a lively, welcoming ambiance.

Hyatt House Raleigh North Hills

Extended Stay Hotel

A comfortable, extended-stay hotel offering spacious suites and convenient access to dining and shopping.

Off the course

Things to do in Raleigh-Durham

Non-golf experiences worth building into your trip — from local landmarks to nature, food, and culture.

Visit Duke Gardens

Nature & Sightseeing

Explore the beautiful Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a 55-acre public garden located on the Duke University campus.

Explore American Tobacco Campus

Culture & Entertainment

Wander through this historic Durham district, now a vibrant complex of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

North Carolina Museum of Art

Museum & Art

Discover diverse collections and rotating exhibitions at the NCMA, featuring a large outdoor park with sculptures.

Pinhook - Live Music

Entertainment

Catch a live music show at this intimate and popular venue in downtown Durham, showcasing various genres.

Raleigh Beer Garden

Casual Dining & Drinks

Enjoy a massive selection of craft beers on tap at one of the world's largest beer gardens.

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 RDU, transfer to your hotel, hit the range, and grab a casual dinner at STIR.
2
Day 2
Round 1 — Duke University Golf Club
Morning tee time at Duke University Golf Club. Lunch at the clubhouse, afternoon recovery, dinner at Viceroy.
3
Day 3
Final round & departure
Early tee time at Old Chatham Golf Club, light lunch, then transfer back to RDU.

Budget

Budget breakdown · per golfer

Realistic ranges sourced from current resort rates, public green fees, and group dining averages.

Lodging 4 nights · $229/nt	$916
Golf 3 rounds · $133 avg	$399
Food & drink ~$110/day	$440
Ground transport Rideshare + cart fees	$240
Flights Search Skyscanner for live fares	Variable
Estimated total · per golfer	$1,995

Season

Best time of year to visit Raleigh-Durham

humid subtropical

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 Raleigh-Durham

From clubhouse classics to chef-driven dinners worth a reservation.

STIR

American

Known for handcrafted cocktails and a diverse menu focusing on fresh, local ingredients with Southern flair.

Rye Bar & Southern Kitchen

$$$

Southern American

An upscale dining experience in The Willard hotel, offering refined Southern dishes and an extensive whiskey selection.

Viceroy

Indian-Pakistani Gastropub

A popular spot in Durham known for its creative Indian food, craft beers, and lively atmosphere.

Angus Barn

$$$$

Steakhouse

An iconic Raleigh institution delivering classic steakhouse fare, legendary service, and a memorable dining experience.

Saltbox Seafood Joint

Seafood

A small, acclaimed seafood spot in Durham serving exceptionally fresh, simply prepared fried and grilled local catches.

Alley Twenty Six Bar & Restaurant

$$$

American (Craft Cocktails)

Celebrated for its exquisite craft cocktails and a food menu featuring seasonal ingredients and elevated bar bites.

After dark

Nightlife in Raleigh-Durham

Where the buddy trips end up after the 19th hole.

The Green Light

Speakeasy Bar

A hidden speakeasy in Raleigh, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a discreet, atmospheric setting.

Fullsteam Brewery

Brewery/Taproom

A popular Durham brewery known for its Southern-inspired beers and lively taproom.

The Rialto Theatre

Live Music/Event Venue

A historic cinema in Raleigh that also hosts live music, comedy, and special events in an intimate setting.

Tee times

Book tee times in Raleigh-Durham

Live inventory from GolfNow plus flight comparison from Skyscanner. Prices update in real time.

FAQ

Raleigh-Durham golf trip FAQs

What is the best time of year to golf in Raleigh-Durham?

Spring-Fall (Apr, May, Sep, Oct). humid subtropical

How much does a golf trip to Raleigh-Durham cost?

Plan on $1,600–$4,300 per golfer for a 4-night trip including lodging, rounds, food and ground transport. Flights are extra.

What airport should I fly into for Raleigh-Durham?

RDU, about 47 miles from the resort area. Most national hubs offer non-stop service via RDU.

How many days should I plan for a Raleigh-Durham golf trip?

4 nights is the sweet spot — enough for 3 full rounds plus a rest or sightseeing day.

Is Raleigh-Durham good for buddy trips?

Yes — popular with seniors, couples, buddies. Quieter evenings, ideal for golf-focused groups.

Ready to book

Book your Raleigh-Durham golf trip

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Trip snapshot

Destination

Raleigh-Durham, NC

Best months

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Length

4 nights

Per golfer