Texas is a golfer’s paradise, boasting hundreds of courses that range from championship layouts to charming, lesser-known gems tucked away in scenic corners of the state. For golf enthusiasts seeking a unique adventure filled with beautiful landscapes, challenging fairways, and authentic local culture, a Texas golf road trip offers an unparalleled experience. This detailed itinerary highlights hidden gem courses, picturesque routes, small towns brimming with character, and practical tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Your Texas golf adventure begins in the heart of the Hill Country, a region known for rolling hills, wildflowers, and German heritage. Fredericksburg is a quintessential small town with friendly locals, great food, and unique wineries.
Golf course to explore: Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course – A beautifully maintained 18-hole course that offers a peaceful setting with stunning vistas of the Hill Country. It’s perfect for warming up your swing and soaking in the natural beauty.
Dining recommendation: Try classic Texas barbecue at Ausländer, where locals enjoy hearty comfort food with a twist.
Accommodation: Stay at one of Fredericksburg’s cozy bed-and-breakfast inns for an authentic experience.
From Fredericksburg, drive northeast toward Waco, a city best known for its Magnolia Market but also home to some lesser-known golfing hotspots.
Golf course: Cottonwood Creek Golf Course – Not your typical municipal course, this 18-hole layout features winding fairways through cedar and oak trees, offering an enjoyable challenge for all skill levels. It also provides a glimpse of central Texas’ natural flora and fauna.
After golfing, explore Waco’s vibrant downtown, visit the Dr Pepper Museum, or take a stroll along the Brazos River.
Dining: Grab a casual meal at Vitek’s BBQ, famous for its “Gut Pak”—a deliciously indulgent Texas favorite.
Stay: Choose a downtown boutique hotel like the Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor for convenient access to attractions and an inviting ambiance.
Next, head east to Tyler, known as the “Rose Capital of America,” a city with verdant parks, blooming gardens, and a surprisingly robust golf scene.
Golf course: Brookside Golf Club – A hidden gem offering a beautiful yet sporty 18 holes along private lake shorelines and through shaded hardwoods. It’s perfect for players who enjoy a strategic game infused with natural challenges.
After your round, visit the Tyler Rose Garden or stroll through historic downtown Tyler for handmade crafts and local art.
Food stop: Enjoy southern hospitality and classic dishes at Stan’s Hamburgers, a local institution since 1947.
Accommodation: Consider a quaint stay at The Tyler Block Historic Inn to immerse yourself in local history.
Travel west to Abilene, a city that sits at the crossroads of West Texas’s open plains and subtle deserts, offering a completely different golf atmosphere.
Golf course: Lakeside Golf Club – This course is a true hidden gem that blends water features, strategic bunkering, and broad fairways within a serene lakeside setting. It’s an excellent destination for players seeking tranquility alongside a challenge.
Explore Abilene’s vibrant art scene at the Grace Museum or enjoy a night out in historic downtown.
Dining: Dine at Hickory Street for fresh, farm-to-table Southern cuisine.
Stay: The Hotel Wooten offers modern comfort while honoring the city’s heritage.
Finish your road trip in San Antonio, where golf history meets rich Texan culture.
Golf course: Oak Hills Country Club – This private but occasionally accessible course has hosted several PGA Tour events and offers a challenging, tree-lined layout famed for its fast greens and immaculate conditioning.
Beyond golf, don’t miss visiting the Alamo and walking along the scenic River Walk, an expansive network of pedestrian-friendly paths lined with shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment.
Food and drink: Experience authentic Tex-Mex at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería, open 24 hours and renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
Accommodation: Stay near the River Walk at the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk for charming rooms and easy access to San Antonio’s best sites.
Texas courses often blend diverse landscapes, from Hill Country rolling hills to desert-like terrains in West Texas and lush piney woods in the east. Many hidden gem courses emphasize natural beauty and local flora, creating distinctive playing experiences that reflect Texas’s vast ecological variety. Additionally, the warm climate allows year-round golf with seasonal nuances.
Yes, the itinerary features a variety of courses catering to different abilities. From more forgiving fairways in Fredericksburg to strategically demanding holes in San Antonio, the selection offers challenges and enjoyment for beginners as well as experienced golfers.
Absolutely! Texas offers hiking trails, river tubing, wine tasting, and historic tours near many of these destinations. For example, Fredericksburg boasts extensive hiking in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, while San Antonio offers kayak tours on the San Antonio River.
Texas is known for affordable yet high-quality dining, especially barbecue joints, Tex-Mex cafes, and local diners. Many small towns offer charming inns and motels that balance comfort and cost-effectiveness. Booking ahead can secure better deals, and some courses have nearby camping or RV park options for adventurous travelers.
Invest in a durable golf travel bag with ample padding and waterproof features. Use club headcovers and consider a small lock for extra security during stops. When renting a vehicle, choose one with enough space and secure storage options, and avoid leaving equipment unattended.
Texas golf road trips offer more than just a chance to play—it’s a way to immerse yourself in the state’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture. By exploring these hidden gem courses, from Hill Country’s vistas to East Texas’s woodlands and West Texas’s tranquil lakes, you’ll enjoy a memorable journey full of discovery both on and off the fairway. Pack your clubs, hit the road, and experience the authentic spirit of golf across the Lone Star State.
Read our latest stories about everything golf, from travel tips to equipment reviews.
Texas golf courses stand out not only for their challenging play but also for their distinctive architectural features that celebrate the Lone Star State’s rich natural and cultural heritage. From...
Read more →
Introduction to Texas golf training camps in 2024 Texas offers an impressive range of golf training camps and seasonal clinics specially designed to help players of all skill levels improve...
Read more →
Discover Texas' hidden golf gems with elite training amenities Texas is renowned for its sprawling golf culture, with iconic courses attracting players from around the world. Yet beyond the popular...
Read more →