The Best Private Golf Clubs in Columbus, Ohio: A Tradition of Excellence
Columbus, Ohio is not only the state capital but also a hidden gem for golfers who appreciate history, exclusivity, and exceptional course design. For those seeking a private club experience steeped in tradition and elevated by modern amenities, these are the premier private golf clubs in and around Columbus worth knowing.
Muirfield Village Golf Club – Dublin, Ohio
Designed by: Jack Nicklaus
Founded: 1974
Muirfield Village is synonymous with championship golf. Designed by the Golden Bear himself, this meticulously maintained course is home to the prestigious PGA Memorial Tournament. The course spans 220 acres and features undulating bentgrass fairways, precision-bunkered greens, and a clubhouse that offers world-class dining and lodging.
With an initiation fee of around $100,000 and a limited, high-profile membership, Muirfield is considered one of the finest private golf clubs not just in Ohio, but nationwide. Set within a master-planned residential community, the course is integrated with nature, showcasing serene water features and mature woodlands. It’s a must-play for any serious golfer.
Scioto Country Club – Upper Arlington, Columbus
Designed by: Donald Ross
Founded: 1916
Scioto Country Club is one of the most storied clubs in the Midwest. It’s one of only five clubs in the U.S. to have hosted the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and U.S. Amateur. This Donald Ross masterpiece has been updated throughout the years, most notably by Jack Nicklaus, who grew up playing here.
The course is a par-70 with subtle elevation changes, artfully placed bunkers, and tree-lined fairways that demand both precision and strategy. Beyond golf, the club offers resort-style amenities including tennis courts, a resort pool, spa, and one of the most beautiful and expansive clubhouses in Columbus.
Columbus Country Club – Bexley, East Columbus
Designed by: Donald Ross
Founded: Early 1900s
This private club combines classical architecture with a serene parkland-style layout. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and rich traditions, Columbus Country Club provides an exceptional golf experience that appeals to seasoned players and social golfers alike.
The course is characterized by wide fairways, fast greens, and a layout that honors Ross’s original vision. Caddie services, practice facilities, and family-friendly events make this club one of the most well-rounded private golf experiences in Central Ohio.
Pinnacle Golf Club – Grove City
Designed by: Lanny Wadkins
Founded: 2006
Pinnacle offers a modern yet refined take on private golf. Just minutes south of downtown Columbus, this Lanny Wadkins Signature Course weaves through picturesque terrain, featuring elevation changes, water hazards, and immaculate bunkering. It’s a challenging layout that rewards shot-making and strategy.
The real gem at Pinnacle is its elegant clubhouse, home to the well-known Cimi’s Bistro, which offers upscale dining with panoramic golf course views. Pinnacle balances serious golf with social elegance, making it a popular choice for professionals and families alike.
Brookside Golf & Country Club – Columbus
Designed by: Charles Lorms
Founded: 1927
Brookside has long been a favorite among Columbus golf purists. With its mature trees, rolling fairways, and classic design, it delivers a quintessential private golf experience. The club regularly hosts U.S. Open sectional qualifiers, and its pristine conditions make it a tournament-worthy layout.
The clubhouse offers an inviting, traditional ambiance and a full range of amenities including tennis, aquatics, and a newly renovated dining space. Brookside is ideal for those who seek a balance of competitive play and warm, community-focused culture.
Honorable Mention: The Golf Club – New Albany
Designed by: Pete Dye
Founded: 1967
An ultra-private, architecturally elite club with a membership capped at under 200, The Golf Club is a sanctuary for serious golf traditionalists. Designed by Pete Dye, it features signature railway-tie bunkers, blind tee shots, and a minimalist design free of residential development. It’s exclusive, serene, and ranks among the most architecturally important courses in the country.
Columbus offers a rich tapestry of private golf options: each with its own unique heritage, architectural vision, and elevated member experience. Whether you’re a competitive player, a social golfer, or someone seeking a refined community lifestyle, these clubs offer the best that the Midwest has to offer.
Ready to live near one of Columbus’ finest golf clubs or invest in golf community real estate? Let’s talk. I specialize in helping clients align their lifestyle with the luxury, heritage, and privacy these exclusive clubs provide.
Cece Miller Luxury Real Estate Group | Excellence. Redefined. 614.989.0417
