April 22nd, 2010 by admin

Orlando is heavily trafficked for the Disney experience and other theme parks, but beyond tourist sites recreation-seeking golfers will find several places to put their 9-iron to good use. Many resorts and hotels in Orlando have private, world-class golf courses where you can play

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Orlando is heavily trafficked for the Disney experience and other theme parks, but beyond tourist sites, golf enthusiasts will find several places to put their 9-iron to good use. Many resorts and hotels in Orlando have private, world-class golf courses where you can play a few rounds, practice your swing at the driving range or relax at the clubhouse. You’ll also find several beautiful public courses a short drive from downtown Orlando. Our list of Orlando’s Top Five Golf Courses encompasses some of the best in the area, and perhaps the country.

#1: Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Club and Lodge

The Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Club and Lodge is a prestigious golf course located in the Bay Hill neighborhood, a short drive from the Disney resorts. The course covers 270 acres along the Butler Chain of Lakes and features 27 holes of tour championship golf for amateurs and professionals. It’s also one of the most popular tour stops for the PGA Tour and host of the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The lodge features a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts and a spa.

The Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Club and Lodge is located at 9000 Bay Hill Boulevard in Orlando; Call 407/876-2429 for reservations.

#2: Orlando Champions Gate Golf Course

The Champions Gate Golf Club is home to two 18-hole championship golf courses and is located on the grounds of a Four-Diamond resort. The course was designed by Greg Norman and is located about 10 minutes from Disney World. Head here for VIP treatment with valet parking, iced towel service and caddies equipped with digital GPS systems.

The Orlando Champions Gate Golf Course is located at 1400 Masters Boulevard; 407/787-4653.

#3: Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course

One of the best golf courses on Disney’s property is the Magnolia Golf Course, named for the abundance of blossoming magnolia trees surrounding the lush landscape. The golf course received a four-star rating from Golf Digest magazine and is home to the Children’s Miracle Network Classic. Golfers can enjoy an enhanced golf experience with GPS-enabled golf carts that offer realistic images of the fairways and hazards, relax at the Clubhouse, explore the Champions Room with plaques honoring winners of the PGA Tour Golf Classic and sharpen their skills on the driving range or putting green. Golf instruction is available at this course.

Call (407) 938-GOLF for more information.

#4: Magnolia Plantation Golf Club

The Magnolia Plantation Golf Club is located in Lake Mary, a short drive north of downtown Orlando. The newly-renovated championship golf course is located in a pristine setting and features manicured lawns and forests with an abundance of bears, wild turkeys, fox, herons and deer roaming the territory. The nine-hole golf course is uniquely designed, featuring a practice bunker and practice area, an on-site golf shop and the Magnolia Grill restaurant for a casual dining experience.

The Magnolia Plantation Golf Club is located at 600 Shadowmoss Circle in Lake Mary; 407/771-4343.

#5: Cypress Creek Country Club

The Cypress Creek Country Club is an 18-hole regulation-length golf course in Orlando and offers a challenging golfing experience for all skill levels. It’s located a short drive from major attractions and resorts, features a driving range and is open to the general public. If you’re staying in the Disney resort area and want to break away for an afternoon of golfing, head here for a scenic setting and affordable golfing fees.

The Cypress Creek Country Club is located at 5353 Vineland Road in Orlando. 407/351-2187.

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Bay Hill

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