1. Bowden Golf Course
Sector: Recreation / Municipal Golf Course
Services: 18-hole golf course, driving range, chipping green, putting green, pro shop, snack bar, golf lessons, tournament hosting.
About: Bowden Golf Course is Macon’s oldest public golf course, operated as a municipal facility serving golfers of all skill levels. The course features four sets of tees on each hole, with yardages ranging from 4,940 to 6,626 yards, accommodating beginners through experienced players. Bowden hosts the Cherry Blossom Four Ball Tournament for men and women each year during the Cherry Blossom Festival and the annual Macon-Middle Georgia Golf Championship, open to all Middle Georgia golfers. The practice facility includes a full-length driving range with a large tee area, chipping green, and putting green. Golf lessons are available by appointment. The course is known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained fairways that have welcomed golfers for generations.
Address: Macon, GA
Contact: (478) Golf Shop | https://visitmacon.org
Hours: Contact for tee times and hours
2. Barrington Hall Golf Club
Sector: Recreation / Public Golf Course
Services: 18-hole championship golf course, five tee positions (5,012 to 7,062 yards), pro shop, tee time reservations.
About: Barrington Hall Golf Club offers a public golf experience with all the characteristics of an exclusive private club. The course features five tee positions with yardages ranging from 5,012 to 7,062 yards, making it accommodating for players of all ages and abilities. Casual and serious golfers alike appreciate the natural beauty and landscape at one of Middle Georgia’s finest public courses. The rolling hills and majestic pine trees provide stunning views throughout the round. Barrington Hall combines challenging play with welcoming service. Tee times may be made up to one week in advance by calling the golf shop.
Address: Macon, GA
Contact: (478) 757-8358 | https://visitmacon.org
Hours: Contact golf shop for tee times
3. Brickyard Golf Club
Sector: Recreation / Private Golf Club
Services: 18-hole championship golf course, saltwater swimming pool, clubhouse with dining, event hosting, junior golf camp, member events and tournaments.
About: Brickyard Golf Club is a private 18-hole championship course located in north Macon. The course was redesigned by 10-time PGA Tour winner Mark McCumber in 2005, stretching across 7,128 yards of pristine landscape. The elegant clubhouse, saltwater outdoor swimming pool, and scenic pavilion overlook the championship golf course. Brickyard provides a golfing experience where members can socialize with family and friends in a club environment featuring excellent cuisine and personalized service. The club offers various membership levels including full family membership plans. Regular events include the Hutch Cup, Men’s Night Out, and Junior Golf Camp. Course maintenance practices include DryJect aeration, verti-cutting, and top-dressing to maintain playing conditions.
Address: North Macon, GA
Contact: https://www.brickyardgolf.com
Hours: Member access, contact for membership information
4. Idle Hour Country Club
Sector: Recreation / Private Country Club
Services: 18-hole golf course, 13 tennis courts, fitness center, aquatics facility, dining facilities, social events, private event hosting.
About: Idle Hour Country Club serves as a second home to its members, offering a full-service private club experience in Macon. The club features an 18-hole golf course alongside 13 tennis courts, a spacious fitness center, and a state-of-the-art aquatics facility. Idle Hour is a gathering place for fun, friendship, great food, and socializing. The club hosts regular member events and provides facilities for private celebrations and gatherings. As one of Macon’s established private clubs, Idle Hour offers a traditional country club experience emphasizing community, recreation, and Southern hospitality. Membership provides access to all club amenities and programming.
Address: Macon, GA
Contact: (478) 477-1724 | https://www.idlehourclub.com
Hours: Member access, contact for membership information
5. Oakview Golf and Country Club
Sector: Recreation / Semi-Private Golf Course
Services: 18-hole golf course, country club amenities, public play available.
About: Oakview Golf and Country Club offers 18 holes of golf in a traditional Southern setting. The course features strategic water hazards and bunkers that test golfers’ skills while remaining enjoyable for players of various abilities. Oakview operates as a semi-private facility, welcoming public play while also serving club members. The country club facilities provide Southern hospitality alongside the golf experience. Oakview’s layout offers both challenge and beauty, with the course designed to reward strategic play. Dining and leisure facilities are available for post-round relaxation. The club serves golfers throughout Middle Georgia seeking a quality golf experience at accessible pricing.
Address: Macon, GA
Contact: (478) 785-1833
Hours: Contact for tee times
About Macon, GA
Macon offers diverse golf options including municipal, public, semi-private, and private courses within the city and surrounding Middle Georgia region. The area’s mild climate allows for year-round golf, with the Cherry Blossom Festival each spring bringing golf tournaments to local courses. Nearby Warner Robins provides additional options including International City Golf Club and Pine Oaks Golf Club at Robins Air Force Base (military access). Gray, located just north of Macon, offers Lake Jonesco Golf Course as another public option. The Gary Player-designed course at Healy Point Country Club represents the high-end private club experience in the market. Golf tourism in Middle Georgia benefits from the region’s accessibility via Interstate 75 and relatively affordable green fees compared to Atlanta-area courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the green fees at public golf courses in Macon?
A1: Green fees at Macon’s public and municipal courses typically range from $25 to $50 for 18 holes depending on the day of the week, time of day, and whether a cart is included. Weekend rates are generally higher than weekday rates. Senior and junior discounts are often available. Contact individual courses for current pricing as rates change seasonally.
Q2: Can non-members play at private clubs in Macon?
A2: Most private clubs in Macon require membership for regular play. However, some private clubs allow non-members to play when accompanied by a member or during special events. Semi-private courses like Oakview and Barrington Hall welcome public play. Contact individual clubs about guest policies and any reciprocal arrangements with other clubs.
Q3: What is the best time of year to play golf in Macon?
A3: Macon’s climate allows for year-round golf, though spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable playing conditions with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. Summer months can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Winter rounds are possible but early morning frost may delay tee times on cold mornings.
Q4: Are golf lessons available in Macon?
A4: Yes, most courses in Macon offer golf instruction through their pro shops. Lessons are available for beginners through advanced players, including individual lessons, group clinics, and junior programs. Several courses offer driving ranges and practice facilities for skill development. Contact individual course pro shops for instructor availability and lesson rates.
Q5: How far in advance can I book a tee time?
A5: Tee time reservation windows vary by course. Barrington Hall accepts reservations up to one week in advance. Municipal courses may accept reservations 3-7 days ahead. Some courses offer online tee time booking through their websites or third-party golf booking platforms. Premium tee times on weekends fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended for popular playing times.