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Best Golf Courses Outside of Ohio Within a One-Day Drive from Cleveland

Jul. 23 2025 golf courses By Joseph Powell

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Living in Cleveland means you’re within striking distance of some of the most legendary golf courses in the Midwest and Appalachia. If you’re willing to gas up, grab your clubs, and hit the road, these out-of-state destinations offer unforgettable rounds—all within a single day’s drive (roughly 5–6 hours max). Whether you're chasing Pete Dye masterpieces, hidden mountain gems, or lakeside stunners, here's your ultimate road warrior golf list.

Nemacolin – Farmington, Pennsylvania

Drive Time: ~3.5 hours
State: Pennsylvania
Why Go: The Mystic Rock course was designed by Pete Dye and is carved into the Allegheny Mountains with dramatic elevation, deep bunkers, and jaw-dropping views. The second course, Shepherd’s Rock, is more forgiving but equally scenic.
Extra: Nemacolin is a full-blown luxury resort—play and stay if you can.



Bear Lake Highlands – Petoskey, Michigan

Drive Time: ~5.5 hours
State: Michigan
Why Go: Classic Northern Michigan golf with rolling hills, lakeside views, and crisp forest air. A lesser-known gem that blends fun layout with natural beauty.
Vibe: Tranquil and rugged—ideal for fall golf.

Arcadia Bluffs – Arcadia, Michigan

Drive Time: ~5 hours
State: Michigan
Why Go: One of the most stunning public golf courses in America. Sits along the shores of Lake Michigan and looks like a slice of Ireland. Links-style layout with breathtaking views.
Must-Play Hole: #11, where wind and water meet for a dramatic par 3.

French Lick Resort – French Lick, Indiana

Drive Time: ~5 hours
State: Indiana
Why Go: Features both the Donald Ross Course (restored to its 1917 layout) and the epic Pete Dye Course, which has hosted the Senior PGA Championship. Rolling terrain and challenging design define both tracks.
History: Larry Bird’s hometown. Enough said.

The Kampen Course – West Lafayette, Indiana (Purdue University)

Drive Time: ~4.5 hours
State: Indiana
Why Go: A Pete Dye-designed beast that doubles as a college championship course. Expect railroad ties, nasty bunkers, and lots of risk/reward holes.
Perfect For: Golfers who want to test their game on a strategic course.

Stonewall Resort – Roanoke, West Virginia

Drive Time: ~4 hours
State: West Virginia
Why Go: The Arnold Palmer Signature Course wraps around Stonewall Jackson Lake with dramatic elevation changes and peaceful forest surroundings. It’s secluded, scenic, and wildly underrated.
Hidden Gem: Stay the night at the lakeside lodge or keep it all in one day.

The Pete Dye Golf Club – Bridgeport, West Virginia

Drive Time: ~4.5 hours
State: West Virginia
Why Go: One of the most prestigious clubs in the region—previously ranked top-50 in the U.S. If you can get a tee time (limited public access), it's a once-in-a-lifetime round.
Note: Worth the call. Try booking with a local connection or as part of a golf group.

Kearney Hill Golf Links – Lexington, Kentucky

Drive Time: ~5.5 hours
State: Kentucky
Why Go: A Scottish-style links course designed by Pete and P.B. Dye. Open fairways, tall native grasses, and wind-tested greens make it feel like a transatlantic trip without the passport.
Also Nearby: Take a bourbon detour afterward.

Pro Tips for Long-Distance Golf Days

  • Tee Off Early: Book the first or second tee time to give yourself driving buffer.
  • Prep the Playlist: Long drives need solid tunes or golf podcasts (try Fore Play, No Laying Up, or Chasing Scratch).
  • Pack Smart: Bring multiple gloves, layers, balls, snacks, and backup chargers.
  • Avoid Rush Hour: Leave Cleveland by 5–6 AM to avoid city traffic and beat the heat.
  • Plan Pit Stops: Target food and fuel near your turnpike exits.

Final Thoughts

Cleveland golfers are in a prime spot—just far enough from the border to make travel worthwhile, but close enough to knock out a legendary course and still sleep in your own bed. Whether you’re after Dye’s diabolical layouts, lakeside stunners, or mountain hideaways, the options are stacked just beyond the Ohio line.

Grab the crew, hit the highway, and play like you mean it. The best golf of your life might be just one day away.