Nashville is renowned for its country music scene, historic sites, and yummy southern food. But did you know that Music City also boasts some of the best golf courses in Tennessee? Places like Hermitage and Gaylord Springs beckon golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. They offer beautifully landscaped grounds and challenging layouts for a satisfying experience. But what are the very best Nashville golf courses, and what makes them stand out from the rest of the pack? Stay with us as we explore the top golf courses in Nashville and discover what makes each one truly special.*

1) Hermitage Golf Course

About a 30-minute drive from downtown, Hermitage Golf Course is one of the best golf clubs in Nashville for several reasons. The two 18-hole courses — President’s Reserve and General’s Retreat — are meticulously maintained and offer a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels. The surrounding natural beauty, featuring majestic trees and scenic water features, adds to the golf club's allure. Some visitors have reported wildlife viewings at Hermitage Golf Course that make for a singular experience, including Scottish Blackheaded sheep that freely roam the grounds.

Additionally, the professional and friendly staff ensure every visitor has a pleasant and memorable time at Hermitage. Top-notch amenities include a pro shop, restaurant, events venue, and luxury cottages for overnight stays. Annual dues start at around $2,400, with premium memberships offering free cart fees, unlimited access to practice facilities, and other perks.

2) Gaylord Springs Golf Links

Gaylord Springs Golf Links is situated on the Cumberland River near Hermitage Golf Course. It's one of the best golf clubs in Nashville due to its beautiful and challenging layout. Carved from the banks of the Cumberland River, the par-72 layout features 18 holes surrounded by limestone bluffs and wetlands. The Scottish links-style design, showcasing tee boxes and fairways lined with deep roughs and bunkers, presents an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels.

Moreover, the course's scenic views, including rolling greens and peaceful brooks, add to its allure. Amenities include a clubhouse, events space, pavilion, and grill. Rates vary based on the season and whether the golfer is a Nashville resident, ranging from $80 to $100 daily. The golf course offers special discounts for active and retired military personnel. Children aged 15 and under play for free after 3 p.m. year-round.

3) Golf Club of Tennessee

Nestled in the rolling hills of Kingston Springs, about a 30-minute drive west of Downtown Nashville, Golf Club of Tennessee offers a serene and natural ambiance that enhances the golfing experience during each visit. The club boasts one of the top golf courses in Nashville due to its picturesque setting, challenging layout, and myriad amenities. Golf enthusiasts are treated to well-manicured fairways, professionally sculpted bermuda roughs, and high-performance A1 grass, providing a demanding yet fair test for golfers of all skill levels.

Designed by Tom Fazio and opened in 1991, Golf Club of Tennessee is one of the most established golf courses in Nashville. The impeccable service and attention to detail further enhance the club's exceptional reputation. Amenities include a 31,000-square-foot clubhouse with an antebellum design, a golf shop, two dining areas, and four guest suites for members and their guests. Prospective members must pay an initiation fee of around $25,000 to join the club, with many finding the investment to be well worth it given the unparalleled experience at Golf Club of Tennessee.

4) Richland Country Club

Founded in 1901, Richland Country Club has a long-standing reputation for excellence in golf and hospitality. The club sits in Nashville’s Forest Hills community, about 12 miles south of downtown. It boasts an immaculately manicured 18-hole championship course set amid 170 acres of rolling hills. The lush fairways and scenic views make every round of golf a truly unforgettable experience. In addition to its world-class golf facilities, Richland Country Club provides exceptional amenities, including tennis courts, competition pools, and a fitness center. The club's elegant and inviting atmosphere makes it a premier destination for special events, weddings, and gatherings.

With its rich history and commitment to providing unparalleled service, Richland Country Club continues to set the standard for luxury and leisure in Nashville’s golf communities. Membership is by invitation only, and those looking to join can expect to pay steep fees and adhere to strict rules set forth by the organization. In return, members can enjoy exclusive events, networking opportunities, and bragging rights for being part of one of Nashville’s premier golfing communities.

5) Vanderbilt Legends Club

Vanderbilt Legends Club is one of the best golf courses near Nashville for several compelling reasons. Located in Franklin, within a 30-minute drive south of Downtown Nashville, this premier golf club offers two distinct courses: the par 72 North Course and the par 71 South Course. Both courses feature 18-hole championship layouts and meticulously maintained fairways, providing golfers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Designed by renowned golf architects Bob Cupp and Tom Kite, the North and South courses also offer a beautiful and serene setting with rolling hills and stunning views. The club provides top-notch amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, dining options, and event spaces, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Social activities, health and wellness programs, and professional instruction are also available to ensure members have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience at the club. Initiation fees range from $2,500 to $10,000, with annual dues falling within a similar range. 

6) Hillwood Country Club

Nestled in Nashville’s picturesque Hillwood enclave, Hillwood Country Club is one of Music City’s premier golf courses. A 20-minute drive from the city’s core, it’s also one of the closest golf courses to Nashville’s vibrant downtown. Established in 1957, this historic club boasts a rich legacy with an 18-hole, par-72 golf course designed by legendary golf architect Dick Wilson. The course was then renovated between 2003 and 2011 by Bruce Hepner of world-renowned Renaissance Golf. It features beautifully landscaped grounds with rolling fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic views.

Hillwood Country Club also provides top-notch amenities, including a clubhouse with a competition pool, practice and dining facilities, tennis courts, and a 22,000-square-foot fitness center. Membership is through invitation and sponsorship only. Prospective members can expect initiation fees of around $40,000, with monthly dues of approximately $500, delivering access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and a vibrant golfing community in Nashville.

7) Greystone Golf Club

Greystone Golf Club is last on our list of the top golf courses in Nashville. Located in Dickson, about 40 miles west of Downtown Nashville, this 18-hole course is celebrated as a value alternative to some of the pricier golf courses near Nashville. Established in 1998, it’s hosted some high-profile events in the region, including the PGA Tour first-round qualifier, the Junior Golf Tour Championship, and the Tennessee State Open. Mark McCumber designed the course, which showcases scenic views, well-groomed bentgrass fairways, and a banquet space for private events.

As one of Tennessee's most affordable golf courses, green fees at Greystone during peak season can cost less than $80 per day. Single and family memberships are available for maximum savings, with an initiation fee of around $500 and annual fees in the $2,200–$2,700 range.

Honorable Mentions

These Nashville golf courses are worth noting for their course layout, accessibility, and overall value:

• Harpeth Hills Golf Course: A public course in Warner Parks known for its challenging 18-hole layout, relaxed clubhouse, and generous rates under $65 for a game.
• The Legacy: A popular 18-hole golf course in Springfield (about 30 miles north of Nashville) known for its beautiful scenery and affordable rates in the $30–$70 range per tee time.
• Pine Creek Golf Course: An 18-hole course in Mount Juliet offering a picturesque layout with affordable green fees and a rustic clubhouse.
• Franklin Bridge Golf Club: A scenic 18-hole golf course in Franklin, known for its challenging layout and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Making the Most of Your Nashville Golf Experience

After exploring the top golf courses in Nashville, it's time to gear up for the ultimate golfing experience. Whether you're visiting Hermitage Golf Course or Vanderbilt Legends Club, the right travel gear is essential to make the most of your time on the course.

At Gravel, we understand the need for durable and practical travel products. From premium toiletry bags to travel blankets and more, our online store offers a range of travel gear to enhance your golfing adventures. Browse our online shop to find the stuff for your needs, and check out the rest of our blog for more travel tips and tricks.

Safe travels and unforgettable rounds await!⛳🏌🏿‍♀️🏌️🚩🏞️🏞✨

*The images in this post are approximate representations of popular Nashville golf clubs.