Northern Michigan pairs dramatic scenery with thoughtfully designed golf courses — a favorite destination for players who want beautiful rounds and memorable stays.
This guide highlights the region’s standout courses and the resort experiences that make them travel-worthy. You’ll find course features, lodging packages, year‑round activities, helpful amenities, and practical tips for booking a golf getaway. Whether you’re chasing a challenging layout or a relaxing weekend away, Northern Michigan delivers both the golf and the setting.
What Are the Best Golf Courses in Northern Michigan for Travelers?
The area offers courses for many skill levels and styles of play. Below are some top picks worth adding to your travel list:
- Otsego Club: Favored for its scenic routing and well‑tended greens, Otsego Club features two distinct layouts — the Classic and the Tribute. The Classic tests shotmaking across rolling terrain; the Tribute honors the game’s greats with inventive holes and memorable views.
- Boyne Golf: Home to multiple courses, including Bay Harbor Golf Club, Boyne offers lakefront panoramas and a variety of courses that suit casual players and serious golfers alike.
- Treetops Resort: Known for dramatic elevation changes, Treetops hosts five courses — including a Tom Fazio Signature — that are consistently ranked among Michigan’s best for their challenge and character.
- Crystal Mountain Resort: A true resort blend of outdoor fun and golf. The Betsie Valley course is scenic and approachable, with holes that reward smart play and offer great views.
To get a fuller sense of Otsego Club’s character, explore its rich history. The club’s past is part of what makes Northern Michigan a longtime golf destination.
The region’s appeal for outdoor recreation — including golf — grew from deliberate development and a long tradition of promoting northern landscapes as tourist destinations.
North Woods Tourism Development in the Upper Midwest Examines how local and state efforts to promote the North Woods and manage land use paved the way for broader tourism initiatives in the Upper Midwest, tracing the roots of the region’s travel industry. The lure of the north woods: Cultivating tourism in the Upper Midwest, 2013
Exploring Otsego Club: Features and Course Highlights
Otsego Club prides itself on delivering a complete golf day. The Classic course leans on traditional routing with tree-lined fairways and well-placed bunkers, while the Tribute uses inspired hole design and scenic overlooks to create memorable moments. Both courses offer modern conveniences — a pro shop, dining options, and service-minded staff — that keep rounds smooth and enjoyable. Guests often note the course conditioning and warm hospitality as highlights of their visits.
Comparing Boyne Golf, Treetops, and Crystal Mountain Resorts
Choosing the right resort depends on what you want from your trip. Here’s a quick comparison of standout features:
| Resort Name | Number of Courses | Signature Course | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Otsego Club | 2 | Tribute | Scenic routing, historic character |
| Boyne Golf | 10 | Bay Harbor | Lake views, varied course choices |
| Treetops Resort | 5 | Signature by Tom Fazio | Big elevation changes, varied landscapes |
| Crystal Mountain | 1 | Betsie Valley | Family-friendly, outdoor activities |
Which Northern Michigan Golf Resorts Offer Exceptional Lodging Packages?
Pairing the right lodging with your golf plans makes the trip feel effortless. These resorts are known for strong package options:
Combining golf with on-site lodging keeps your trip simple and immersive — a reason many travelers choose resort packages over booking separately.
Destination Golf Resorts & Lodging Packages for Travelers Notes that the state supports a number of destination golf resorts with multi-star ratings, and that organized golf-and-lodging packages have attracted tens of thousands of golf travelers in recent years. Blazing Golf Trails in Wisconsin: Attracting Avid Golf Travelers to the State, MT Manion, 2014
- Otsego Resort: Offers a range of accommodations from cozy lodges to modern rooms. Golf packages commonly bundle tee times with lodging discounts, making it easy to plan a stay focused on the course.
- Boyne Golf: Provides everything from luxury hotel rooms to cabin stays. Many packages include meals and access to multiple courses, offering flexibility for groups and families.
- Treetops Resort: Features hotel rooms and private lodges with packages that can include unlimited golf and dining credits — a solid value for families and groups who want a lot of on-site activity.
Golf and Lodging Deals at Otsego Resort
Otsego Resort regularly publishes special offers that pair lodging with golf. Typical packages make it easy to book a comfortable stay and secure preferred tee times at a discounted rate. Guests appreciate the convenience of having dining, practice facilities, and the course close at hand so they can focus on playing and relaxing.
Family-Friendly Golf Resorts with Accommodation Options
Many resorts welcome families with pools, game rooms, and kid-friendly activities that keep non-golfers engaged. Properties like Treetops and Boyne offer programs and on-site recreation so everyone in the group can enjoy their time — whether they’re on the course or off it.
How Can Visitors Enjoy Year-Round Activities Beyond Golf in Northern Michigan?
Northern Michigan is a four-season playground. Beyond summer golf, you’ll find skiing, hiking, boating, and other outdoor adventures that make the region appealing any time of year.
Winter Skiing and Golf & Ski Packages at Otsego Club
In winter, Otsego Club and nearby resorts turn their focus to snow sports. Combined golf-and-ski packages let guests enjoy both pursuits across seasons — golf in the warmer months and skiing when the hills are white. Visitors commonly praise the convenience of one destination offering both types of recreation.
Dining and Event Spaces Complementing Golf Experiences
Resorts in the region complement great golf with varied dining and event spaces. Otsego Resort hosts dining options from casual to refined, and has flexible venues for corporate retreats, weddings, and family gatherings. Good food and a welcoming setting help rounds and events feel special.
What Are the Key Amenities and Services at Top Northern Michigan Golf Courses?
A course’s amenities shape the overall visit. Look for these features when comparing destinations:
- Course Design: Layout and strategic elements define how memorable and challenging a round will be. Resorts like Treetops and Boyne are known for creative routing and strong architectural character.
- Number of Holes: Most Northern Michigan courses are 18 holes; some resorts provide extra short courses or multiple 18s for variety.
- Terrain Features: Lakes, forests, and rolling hills give courses their distinct challenges and visual appeal.
Course Design, Number of Holes, and Terrain Features
Design influences shot choices and enjoyment — the Tribute at Otsego Club asks for thoughtful strategy, while other courses emphasize scenic holes that reward conservative play. Across the region, diverse terrain ensures each course delivers a different and memorable experience.
A closer look at course architecture shows how routing, hazards, and landscape combine to produce a course’s unique character and challenge.
Unique Features & Characteristics of 18-Hole Golf Courses Discusses how 18-hole courses vary by architect and site, with each layout offering distinctive characteristics. The principles behind these design choices apply broadly across golf course planning. Greener Golf
Resort Amenities: Dining, Event Venues, and Family Facilities
Beyond the course, top resorts provide dining options from casual fare to fine dining, event spaces for everything from meetings to weddings, and family amenities such as pools and activity programs. Those extras help make a golf trip into a full vacation for every guest.
How to Book Golf Packages and Tee Times at Northern Michigan Resorts?
Online Booking Processes and Contact Information for Otsego Club
Otsego Club makes booking straightforward with an online reservation system for tee times and rooms. Select your dates, choose a package, and complete your reservation from the site. If you prefer to speak with someone, the resort’s staff is available to answer questions and tailor plans to your needs via the contact page.
Tips for Securing the Best Golf and Lodging Packages
To find the best value, consider off‑peak dates, early-booking discounts, and seasonal promotions. Signing up for resort newsletters or following social channels often surfaces exclusive offers and package announcements before they sell out.
What Do Visitors Say About Their Experiences at Northern Michigan Golf Courses?
User Reviews and Testimonials for Otsego Club
Guests frequently praise Otsego Club for its well-maintained greens, welcoming service, and the scenic backdrop that elevates each round. Reviews often call out staff friendliness and the overall ease of staying and playing at the resort.
Awards and Recognitions in Northern Michigan Golf Tourism
Courses across Northern Michigan have earned awards and recognition for their quality and hospitality. Those honors reflect a regional commitment to maintaining strong playing conditions and excellent guest experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Northern Michigan for golf?
Late spring through early fall — roughly May through September — is prime for golf, with the warmest weather and courses in top condition. Early fall is a quieter, scenic choice if you prefer cooler temps and colorful foliage.
Are there any golf courses in Northern Michigan that are suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Several courses, like Betsie Valley at Crystal Mountain, offer shorter, more forgiving holes and gentle terrain. Many resorts also run clinics and lessons to help new players build confidence.
What amenities can golfers expect at Northern Michigan golf resorts?
Expect well-kept practice facilities, pro shops stocked with essentials, and a range of dining options. Many resorts also have spas, pools, and recreational activities for non-golfers, plus shuttle services at select properties.
How do Northern Michigan golf courses accommodate large groups or tournaments?
Resorts typically offer group packages that include block tee times, catering, and event coordination. Dedicated staff often assist with scoring, logistics, and post-round gatherings to simplify tournament planning.
What should I know about the local wildlife while golfing in Northern Michigan?
Wildlife — from deer and songbirds to the occasional larger animal — is part of the experience. Encounters are usually harmless; remain respectful, avoid feeding animals, and stay on designated paths, especially in remote areas.
Are there any special events or tournaments held at Northern Michigan golf courses?
Yes. Many courses host charity outings, amateur tournaments, and seasonal events. Check resort websites for schedules, registration details, and formats if you want to participate or attend.
Conclusion
Northern Michigan’s golf courses combine striking scenery with thoughtful design and full‑service resorts, making the region an easy pick for a golf getaway. With lodging packages, year‑round activities, and a variety of course styles, you can plan a trip that fits your pace — from competitive play to relaxed family time. Start mapping out your visit and discover why players keep coming back to this part of the state.