Michigan golf vacation FAQs

A land of towering pines, rolling hills, and dramatic elevation changes, Michigan is one of America’s most underrated golf destinations. From championship resort layouts carved through forested terrain to spectacular courses overlooking Lake Michigan, the Great Lakes State delivers a pure summer golf escape unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.

Add cool summer temperatures, long daylight hours perfect for 36-hole days, and stay-and-play resorts designed specifically for golfers, and it’s easy to see why northern Michigan has become a bucket-list destination for golf groups.

Check out our top tips and FAQs to help you plan a Michigan golf vacation that’s seamless, scenic and packed with must-play courses.

Michigan stands out for its concentration of high-quality resort golf, particularly in the northern part of the state.

Highlights of a Michigan golf trip include:

• Cooler summer temperatures than southern states
• Dramatic elevation changes rarely found in the Midwest
• Long daylight hours ideal for multiple rounds per day
• Stay-and-play resorts with multiple on-site courses
• Scenic woodland and Lake Michigan backdrops

Yes. Michigan is ideal for summer golf vacations thanks to its comfortable climate, strong resort infrastructure and variety of layouts suited to different skill levels.

What to expect:

• Immaculate conditioning during peak season
• A mix of championship-level and playable resort layouts
• Courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Tom Fazio, Arthur Hills and Donald Ross-inspired architects
• Golf-focused resorts with easy logistics for groups

The prime golf season runs from late May through to early October.

• June to September offers warm days, cool evenings and extended daylight hours, perfect for 36-hole days.
• September and early October are especially popular for fall colors and crisp playing conditions.
• Early and late season trips often offer excellent value and fewer crowds.

Top tip: Michigan’s cooler summer climate makes it particularly attractive for golfers looking to escape southern heat.

Michigan is home to a wide range of highly regarded public and resort courses. Some standout venues include:

• Jones Masterpiece Golf Course – A Robert Trent Jones Sr. design known for dramatic elevation changes and sweeping downhill tee shots.
• Fazio Premier Golf Course – A Tom Fazio layout offering strategic design and immaculate conditioning.
• Arthur Hills Course – A rolling, elevated layout blending challenge with playability.
• Donald Ross Memorial Course – Inspired by legendary Donald Ross designs, offering traditional shot values and green complexes.
• Bay Harbor Golf Course – Known for its dramatic holes overlooking Lake Michigan, combining elevation changes with striking water views and championship presentation.
• The Monument Course – A scenic course offering strategic variety and panoramic countryside views.

Whether you’re looking for dramatic lake views, forest-lined fairways or championship challenges, Michigan offers a diverse lineup that suits all abilities.

Michigan offers a mix of full-service golf resorts and lodge-style accommodations ideal for golf trips.

• Treetops Resort - Offers five on-site courses along with accommodation at The Lodge at Treetops and The Treetops Inn, making it ideal for multi-round golf trips.
• The Highlands at Harbor Springs - A full-service resort featuring four on-site courses and integrated lodging, well suited to extended golf stays.
• Bay Harbor Golf Club - A resort-style golf experience with on-site accommodation options and easy access to the lakefront course.
• Boyne Mountain Resort - Combines two on-site courses with resort lodging and amenities, creating a convenient base for golf-focused trips.

Each resort allows golfers to stay close to the first tee, simplifying logistics and maximizing time on the course.

Here are some essentials we recommend bringing on your next Michigan golf trip:

• Lightweight golf apparel for warm summer days
• A mid-layer or pullover for cool mornings and evenings
• Waterproof jacket, as conditions can change
• Comfortable golf shoes suitable for walking
• Bug spray during peak summer months

Absolutely. Michigan is ideal for mixed groups thanks to its natural scenery and outdoor activities. Non-golfers can enjoy:

• Lake Michigan beaches and boat excursions
• Hiking and cycling trails
• Wineries and craft breweries
• Spa facilities at select resorts
• Charming lakeside towns with boutique shopping and dining

Common airport options include:

• Traverse City (TVC)
• Pellston (PLN)
• Detroit (DTW) for wider national access

Car rental is recommended, as northern Michigan resorts are connected by scenic drives rather than public transport.

Northern Michigan is the core golf region, offering the highest concentration of resort-based courses. Gaylord and Harbor Springs are particularly popular for multi-course, stay-and-play trips.

Lake Michigan coastal venues such as Bay Harbor add dramatic scenery to the experience.

Domestic US travelers only need valid government-issued ID. International visitors should ensure they meet US entry requirements, including ESTA or visa where applicable, and have a valid passport.

Most visitors fly into regional airports such as Traverse City (TVC), Pellston (PLN), or Detroit (DTW) and rent a car for easy access to golf resorts.