USA Today Names Two Michigan Golf Spots Among America’s Best Getaways

If you’ve ever spent a summer weekend Up North, you know that Michigan isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. Crisp mornings with coffee on the deck, rolling hills covered in mist, and fairways that stretch into forever. And now, thanks to the readers of USA Today, the rest of the country knows it too.

In their 2025 “10Best Golf Destinations in the U.S.” rankings, Michigan claimed two of the top five spots—a huge moment for local tourism, sports culture, and everyone who’s ever packed their clubs into the back of the family SUV.

At No. 1, Boyne Golf took the top honors as the best golf getaway in the nation. And rounding out the top five at No. 5, the Upper Peninsula earned a standing ovation for its raw beauty and unforgettable courses.

But this win isn’t just about bragging rights. It’s about spotlighting the best of Michigan for families, golf lovers, real estate investors, and curious travelers alike.

Let’s dig into why these two locations topped the charts, what you need to know before booking your next trip, and how you can make the most of what Michigan’s golf culture has to offer.

Boyne Golf, Facebook

No. 1: Boyne Golf – Michigan’s Crown Jewel for Luxury & Lakeside Play

A Legacy Destination With New Energy

Boyne Golf has long been a household name for Midwest golfers, but this national nod is a testament to just how far the resort has evolved.

Located in Petoskey, Boyne's courses span the scenic beauty of Little Traverse Bay, offering views that rival some of the most famous coastal courses in the world. With 11 championship-caliber courses spread across three luxury resorts—Boyne Mountain, The Highlands, and Bay Harbor Golf Club—this is not your typical drive-in, tee-off, drive-out kind of experience.

It’s immersive. Elevated. And yet, surprisingly family-friendly.

Signature Courses Worth the Hype

Let’s talk turf. These aren’t your everyday weekend courses. Boyne has built a portfolio of world-class layouts:

Bay Harbor Golf Club: Often called the "Pebble Beach of the Midwest," this stunning course was built on the site of an old limestone quarry and cement plant, creating striking elevation changes and unforgettable lake views.
The Highlands at Harbor Springs: Known for its new Short Course and the Donald Ross Memorial, which re-creates some of the legendary architect’s most iconic holes.
Boyne Mountain: Ideal for those who want golf, spa time, and Avalanche Bay Waterpark all in one vacation.

What Sets Boyne Apart

On-site lodging options for every budget, from family-friendly condos to romantic suites.
Golf academies for both beginners and advanced players.
Fine dining and après-golf experiences like The Sagamore Room at Inn at Bay Harbor.
Easy access to Harbor Springs, Petoskey, and Charlevoix, making this a hub for adventure and culture alike.

“This isn’t just a golf destination—it’s an ecosystem,” says Josh Richter, PGA, Senior VP of Golf Operations for Boyne. “We’ve invested in every touchpoint, from agronomy to hospitality.”

Local Flavor: What to Do Off the Course

Whether you’re with your family or flying solo for the weekend, Northern Michigan offers endless extras:

Visit Petoskey’s Gaslight District for boutique shopping and M-119’s Tunnel of Trees.
Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on Lake Charlevoix.
Take the kids to Pond Hill Farm for goat feeding and cider tasting.
Sample freshwater fish tacos at Palette Bistro or sip local Pinot Grigio at Walloon Lake Winery.

Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Facebook

No. 5: The Upper Peninsula — A Wild, Wonderful Golf Playground

A True Underdog Story

At first glance, the Upper Peninsula might not scream “golf paradise.” It’s remote, rustic, and rugged. But that’s exactly the appeal. In a world of overly manicured fairways and stuffy pro shops, the UP offers something raw, real, and breathtakingly beautiful.

USA Today readers clearly agreed—ranking it No. 5 on their list of best U.S. golf getaways.

Courses That Capture the Spirit of the UP

Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club: This course is legendary among purists. With wild elevation changes, cliffside holes, and vistas over Lake Superior, it’s golf and a national park experience in one.
Sweetgrass Golf Club in Harris: Built on sacred tribal land, this course combines championship-level play with cultural depth. It also hosts the LPGA Epson Tour, showcasing the best in women’s golf.
TimberStone Golf Course in Iron Mountain: Carved from a dense forest with perfectly integrated natural water hazards.
Even Ice Golf tournaments pop up in February, complete with neon golf balls and courses drawn across frozen lakes.

A Different Kind of Getaway

This isn’t a weekend hop-in-hop-out trip—it’s an experience. Think road trip playlists, coolers in the trunk, and bonfires under the stars. Perfect for couples, guys’ trips, or adventurous families who want something off the beaten cart path.

Local Attractions to Round Out Your Stay

Hike the trails at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
Grab a pasty at Lawry’s in Marquette (locals argue it’s the best).
Camp near Tahquamenon Falls or kayak the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Visit the Keweenaw Peninsula and take the kids rock hunting on Lake Superior’s beaches.

Why Metro Detroit Families Are Flocking to Golf Destinations (And Not Just to Play)

Golf vacations aren’t just for retirees or guys in polos anymore. For Metro Detroit families, they’re becoming the perfect blend of recreation, relaxation, and even smart real estate investing.

A Family-Friendly Option That Offers More Than Greens

With Michigan’s top golf resorts offering waterparks, spas, hiking, biking, kids’ camps, and lakeside activities, there’s something for every age group.

Boyne Mountain’s Zipline Adventures and Deer Lake Beach are hits with kids.
At Sweetgrass, many visitors pair golf with a casino night at Island Resort & Casino.
The Highlands’ Horseback Riding and Disc Golf options keep teens and non-golfers entertained.

Golf + Real Estate = The New Summer Strategy

As a local real estate pro, I’ve seen more buyers ask: “Can I buy a home near Boyne or in the UP that I can use AND rent out?”

Short answer: Absolutely.

Bay Harbor and Harbor Springs properties rent for $300–$600/night during peak golf season.
In Marquette, college students and tourists alike drive rental demand well beyond summer.
Some families are co-investing in golf-side cottages and splitting usage (and returns).

It’s a lifestyle choice that pays you back.

Michigan's Golf Stats That May Surprise You

Golfers love numbers—so here are a few to put in your scorecard:

Michigan has over 650 public golf courses—more than any other U.S. state.
The state’s golf economy supports over 60,000 jobs and contributes $4.2 billion annually.
Over 10% of all U.S. golf trips (overnight + rounds) are taken in Michigan.

Add to that the fact that Northern Michigan routinely ranks in “best places to retire” lists, and you’ve got a game plan for life.

How to Plan Your Michigan Golf Getaway (Like a Local)

Want to skip the tourist traps and do it right the first time? Here’s a step-by-step local guide.

Step 1: Choose Your Vibe

Luxury & lakeside leisure? Go Boyne.
Adventure, nature, and quiet? The UP.
Something close to Detroit? Try Treetops Resort in Gaylord or Eagle Eye in Lansing.

Step 2: Book Early

Peak season: Late May through mid-September
Boyne properties fill up fast—especially around 4th of July and Labor Day weekends.

Step 3: Build Out the Itinerary

Plan one non-golf day for exploring. You’ll thank yourself later.
Look up local events (like Harbor Springs’ Art Fair or the Marquette Blueberry Festival).

Step 4: Pack Like a Pro

Bring layers: Mornings can be 55°, afternoons 80°.
Don’t forget bug spray (trust us).
Keep your clubs clean—many resorts have cleaning stations.

Michigan’s Moment Has Arrived—Are You In?

Golf in Michigan isn’t just a weekend hobby—it’s part of our identity. It’s where business meetings turn into friendships, where families reconnect on long drives, and where the views are as good as the drives.

With Boyne Golf and the Upper Peninsula now officially on the national radar, the only question is: Will you explore what’s in your own backyard?

Whether you’re looking for your next great trip, a real estate investment that doubles as a family retreat, or just a weekend away with the people you love most—Michigan delivers.