The Ultimate Golf Road Trip Through Texas: Public Courses Edition
Latest updated: 27th July 2025
Reading time: 4 minutes
Texas is the perfect destination for a golf road trip. With its vast size, diverse landscapes, and world-class public courses, you can create a one-of-a-kind itinerary that combines incredible golf with scenic drives, great food, and authentic Texan experiences. Here’s a suggested week-long golf road trip through Texas that takes you to some of the best public courses in the state.
Day 1-2: Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
Start your golf adventure in the bustling DFW area, home to several top-tier public courses.
Courses to Play:
Cowboys Golf Club (Grapevine): Begin your trip at this NFL-themed gem. The immaculate course is both challenging and fun, with unique Dallas Cowboys flair.
Texas Star Golf Course (Euless): A hidden gem, this course offers a serene setting with beautiful natural features and a well-designed layout.
Cowboys Golf Club, nestled in the rolling hills of Grapevine, Texas, holds the unique distinction of being the world’s first and only NFL-themed golf club. Opened on June 14, 2001,... Read more →
Texas Star Golf Course, located in Euless, Texas, is a premier public golf destination perfectly situated between Dallas and Fort Worth. Since its opening in 1997, this 18-hole, par-71 course,... Read more →
Greenfee from$45
Things to Do:
Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of Texas history.
Enjoy some authentic Texas barbecue at Pecan Lodge in Dallas or Heim Barbecue in Fort Worth.
Day 3: Piney Woods (Frankston)
Head east to the tranquil Piney Woods region, known for its towering pine trees and lush landscapes.
Course to Play:
Pine Dunes Resort & Golf Club: One of the best-kept secrets in Texas golf, this course offers fast greens, challenging layouts, and a peaceful environment.
Pine Dunes Resort & Golf Club, located in Frankston, Texas, is a premier golfing destination renowned for its challenging layout and serene setting. Designed by the esteemed architectural duo Jay... Read more →
Greenfee from$89
Things to Do:
Stay overnight in one of the cozy cabins at Pine Dunes for easy access to the course.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area with a hike or some fishing.
Day 4: Houston
Drive south to Houston for a mix of urban energy and championship golf.
Course to Play:
Memorial Park Golf Course: Recently renovated, this PGA Tour host course offers a premium experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, Memorial Park Golf Course is a public gem that combines history, playability, and scenic beauty. The course was originally established in the 1930s... Read more →
Things to Do:
Explore the Museum District or take a stroll through Hermann Park.
Dine at The Pit Room for some of Houston’s best smoked meats.
Day 5: Hill Country (Austin)
Head west to the beautiful Hill Country, a golfer’s paradise with rolling terrain and picturesque views.
Course to Play:
Wolfdancer Golf Club (Lost Pines): This scenic course winds through the Hill Country landscape, offering three distinct terrains and breathtaking views.
Wolfdancer Golf Club, located in Lost Pines, Texas, approximately 20 miles east of Austin, is a premier golfing destination that offers a diverse and challenging experience for players of all... Read more →
Things to Do:
Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool or kayak on Lady Bird Lake in Austin.
Treat yourself to Tex-Mex at Matt’s El Rancho or barbecue at Franklin Barbecue.
Day 6: San Antonio
Continue south to San Antonio, home to iconic courses and rich history.
Courses to Play:
The Quarry Golf Course: Play through the dramatic cliffs and elevation changes of this unique limestone quarry.
Brackenridge Park Golf Course: A historic course with classic design elements that offer a fun and approachable round.
The Quarry Golf Course
The Quarry Golf Course in San Antonio, Texas, offers a distinctive golfing experience, seamlessly blending the region’s industrial heritage with modern course design. Opened in 1993, this Keith Foster-designed course... Read more →
Brackenridge Park Golf Course, affectionately known as “Old Brack,” is a historic gem located just north of downtown San Antonio, Texas. Established in 1916, it holds the distinction of being... Read more →
Things to Do:
Walk the famous San Antonio River Walk and visit the Alamo.
Enjoy dinner at Boudro’s Texas Bistro for a riverside dining experience.
Day 7: West Texas (El Paso)
End your trip in West Texas with a round of golf in the high desert landscape.
Course to Play:
Butterfield Trail Golf Club (El Paso): Designed by Tom Fazio, this desert-style course offers strategic challenges and stunning mountain views.
Butterfield Trail Golf Club, located in El Paso, Texas, offers golfers a unique blend of historical significance and modern design. Opened in 2007, this public course was crafted by renowned... Read more →
Greenfee from$22
Things to Do:
Take in the sunset at Franklin Mountains State Park.
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at L&J Café.
Tips for Your Texas Golf Road Trip
Plan Ahead: Book tee times and accommodations early, especially at popular courses like Memorial Park and Cowboys Golf Club.
Travel Light: Keep your golf bag packed with versatile clothing for Texas’ varying climates.
Enjoy the Journey: Stop at local landmarks, small towns, and scenic spots along the way to soak in the true Texas experience.
Final Thoughts
A golf road trip through Texas offers more than just incredible rounds—it’s an opportunity to experience the state’s diverse culture, landscapes, and cuisine. From the pine forests of East Texas to the deserts of West Texas, this itinerary highlights the best public courses and the adventures that come with them.
Hit the road, grab your clubs, and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the Lone Star State!
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