For those seeking a blend of sporting perfection and entertainment, the union between championship golf and gaming destinations is something special. From the sun-kissed fairways of Las Vegas to the rolling hills of Connecticut, a host of prestigious haunts have carried off this blend with aplomb; there are golf courses to match anything on the PGA Tour, allied to top-class gaming.
The Desert Jewels
In the middle of Nevada’s driest region, Shadow Creek showcases course design at its finest. This Tom Fazio-designed playable beauty for MGM Resorts converts the lifeless, arid landscape into an oasis of immaculately manicured greens and strategically placed penalty areas. The casino experience at this location is no different from the greatness of the course: high-limit gaming tables and privileged venues for entertainment. Whether it is pro golfers or gamers, both come in from around the world to see this place.
Eastern Elegance
The Lake of Isles golf facility at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut boasts two great championship courses and is designed by Rees Jones. The North Course, available to resort guests, winds its way through pristine New England forest and around the namesake lake for a great test and equally great beauty. Unique to this site is the way championship conditions are maintained amidst the varied seasonal challenges of the region.
Coastal Magnificence
Gaming action in Atlantic City extends beyond the boardwalk to some of the East Coast’s most links-style courses. The Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, with its gaming links, provides a historic Bay Course that has hosted LPGA events. The prevailing winds coming off of the water and coastal terrain create a true test of golf in addition to beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Southern Charm
Mississippi’s Gulf Coast combines a welcoming atmosphere with some of the finest golf and gaming anywhere. The Fallen Oak Golf Course, available to guests of the Beau Rivage Resort, is still another Tom Fazio design that uses the existing topography to its full advantage. Live oaks draped with Spanish moss frame out precisely contoured fairways, creating a Southern atmosphere that perfectly complements the high-quality gaming experience.
Western Wonders
Journey at Pechanga The Arthur Hills design at this Californian resort casino located in the sun-kissed Temecula Valley pays homage to the native landscape while offering one of the most fiery tests of golf. The oft-dramatic elevation changes and views of the surrounding valley help create several memorable holes that are on par with any championship course in the country.
The Ultimate Stay-and-Play Experience
Even more desirable are those that accommodate multiple skill levels while maintaining championship playing standards. Most include professional teaching, leading-edge practice facilities and multiple tees to make the course playable and fun for all players. Ease of access via luxury accommodations, dining options and evening entertainment within walking or easy driving distance from the first tee will make for a distinctive resort experience.
Course Conditioning and Tournament Heritage
These courses are maintained to a tournament standard throughout the year and are often used for professional and amateur events. The conditioning will be the same as any major championship course in terms of green speeds, height of rough, and condition of bunkers.
Seasonal Considerations
While Las Vegas and Southern California can offer ideal playing conditions year-round, other locations demand more thoughtful planning. Those New England courses boast breathtakingly beautiful fall colors but have shorter seasons, while Gulf Coast venues can be occasionally plagued by tropical weather. Understanding these seasonal variations helps in planning the perfect golf and gaming getaway.
In closing
Indeed, championship golf combined with premier gaming destinations is one of a kind in the hospitality marketplace. These courses have managed to provide just those atmospheres where the excitement of the course complements the gaming experience. From challenging rounds of play on a PGA Tour caliber course to planning a golf getaway with other entertainment options, these destinations have laid out experiences satisfying the most pampered visitor. It all comes down to the choice of venue, which best fits your playing preferences, desired amenities, and seasonal timing to create memories lasting a lot longer than the 18th hole.
