Best public golf courses in the Atlanta, Georgia area

Atlanta, Georgia, a vibrant hub known for its rich history, bustling city life, and southern charm, offers an unexpected treasure for golf enthusiasts. Amidst the urban sprawl and lush greenery, the region boasts a variety of public golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Whether you're a local looking to tee off on a sunny weekend or a visitor with a penchant for the fairways, Atlanta's selection of public greens provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely round or a challenging game. Get ready to explore the best public golf courses that encapsulate the spirit of the Peach State, where tradition meets modern golfing amenities in a welcoming atmosphere.

Fox Creek Golf Club 1501 Windy Hill Road, Smyrna, Georgia Fox Creek Golf Club in Smyrna, Georgia, designed by John LaFoy, offers a Par 62 course with Champion Bermuda grass greens, suitable for various skill levels and ages. The public course, established in 1985, features a nationally recognized driving range and provides a fun and friendly golfing experience. Amenities include a large putting green, although reviews suggest varying maintenance levels across the facility.

Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis Club 2706 Bouldercrest Road SE, Atlanta, Georgia Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis Center in Atlanta offers an 18-hole course with a mix of elevation changes and tight fairways on Bermuda grass, featuring a par of 71 and a slope rating of 123. The well-maintained greens and fairways, along with friendly staff, contribute to a positive golfing experience. The course, designed by Evan Marbut and opened in 2019, provides a challenging layout and good pace of play for golfers of various skill levels.

The First tee of Atlanta 1053 Cascade Circle, Atlanta, Georgia John A White Golf Course is a public 9-hole course known for its well-maintained greens and welcoming atmosphere, offering a balanced challenge for all skill levels. It serves as the home of First Tee - Metro Atlanta, promoting character development through golf, and provides affordable access with a variety of tee times to accommodate players' schedules.

Legacy Golf Links 1825 Windy Hill Road, Smyrna, Georgia Legacy Golf Links, designed by PGA veteran Larry Nelson, offers a par-58 executive course with Champion Bermuda greens, ideal for beginners and those looking to practice their short game. Located in Smyrna, Georgia, the course features fourteen par 3s and four par 4s, providing a quick yet challenging round for golfers of varying skill levels. The facility also includes a driving range and putting green, enhancing its appeal as a practice destination.

Panola Mountain Golf Club 1850 Little Mountain Road, Ellenwood, Georgia Panola Mountain Golf Course in Ellenwood, Georgia, offers a scenic 18-hole experience with picturesque mountain views, particularly at holes 10 and 11. The course is well-maintained, featuring excellent greens and a layout that provides a challenge for long shots, making it a valuable destination for golfers of all skill levels seeking a rewarding round.

Wolf Creek Golf Club 3000 Union Road SW, Atlanta, Georgia Wolf Creek Golf Club, renowned for its challenging layout and picturesque parkland style, is a 250-acre gem just minutes from downtown Atlanta. Offering a par 72 championship course with bent grass greens and a diverse array of natural features, it promises a rewarding experience for golfers seeking both beauty and a test of skill. With recent investments improving conditions and customer service, Wolf Creek is a must-play for locals and visitors alike.

Cross Creek Golf Club 1221 Cross Creek Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia Cross Creek Golf Club in Atlanta offers a par-54, 18-hole course that's ideal for sharpening your short game. With affordable walking rates and a layout that caters to both beginners and seasoned players, the semi-private facility boasts a mix of Bermuda grass greens and picturesque views. Additional amenities include a café, fitness center, pools, and tennis courts for a well-rounded golfing experience.

Mystery Valley Golf Club 6094 Shadow Rock Drive, Lithonia, Georgia Mystery Valley Golf Club in Dekalb County offers an interesting and challenging layout with 18 holes sprawled across 230 acres of picturesque Georgia terrain. The course, designed by Dick Wilson and rated highly since its opening in the 1960s, provides a mix of well-maintained greens and fairways, complemented by scenic views and a friendly, accommodating staff. Golfers can expect a fair test of skill amidst the beauty of rolling meadows and towering pines.

City Club of Marietta 510 Powder Springs St, Marietta, Georgia City Club Marietta offers a scenic and challenging mountainous golf experience with well-maintained Bermuda grass greens and a variety of holes that cater to different skill levels. The 18-hole course features picturesque views of the Kennesaw Mountains and is known for its good pace of play and welcoming staff. Amenities include a driving range, practice green, and a clubhouse with a restaurant, ensuring a satisfying golf outing for players seeking value and quality.

Honey Creek Golf & Country Club 635 Clubhouse Drive SE, Conyers, Georgia Honey Creek Golf Course offers a challenging experience with well-maintained greens and fairways that reward accuracy. The staff provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall golfing experience. However, some players have noted that the customer service can be contingent on regular spending at the facility.

The Wendell Coffee Golf and Event Center 1963 Hwy 74 N, Tyrone, Georgia Wendell Coffee Golf & Event Center in Tyrone, Georgia, offers a 9-hole Par 27 course designed by Rocky Roquemore, featuring bent grass greens and zoysia grass fairways. This public course, established in 1997, is known for its friendly staff, rental equipment availability, and a layout that includes a mix of water hazards and sand traps. No tee times are required, providing convenience for golfers looking to enjoy a round without prior scheduling.

Candler Park Golf Course 585 Candler Park Drive NE, Atlanta, Georgia