Fore the Love of Golf
Plan the Ultimate Golf Weekend in Columbus, Indiana
5/19/2025
Looking for the perfect mix of competitive rounds, cold drinks, and quality time with the crew? A golf weekend in Columbus, Indiana hits the sweet spot. With great public courses, a laid-back downtown, and plenty of local flavor, it’s an ideal destination to tee off, unwind, and make some memories. Whether you’re chasing birdies or just along for the beers and banter, this golf getaway delivers a well-rounded experience, on and off the green.
Day 1 – Friday: Arrival & Warm-Up
Afternoon: Arrival and Check-In
Ease into the weekend by settling into your accommodations and prepping for the golf-filled days ahead. Choose lodging that suits your group’s vibe:
Hotels
Take your pick, stylish, modern hotel in the heart of downtown that is walkable to bars, restaurants, and the riverfront. Or spacious and comfortable with easy highway access and a short drive to the golf courses and pools.
Vacation Rentals: Airbnb or VRBO
Ideal for groups that want extra space, a kitchen, or backyard hangout zones. Great for early risers or late-night game-watchers.
Pet-Friendly Hotel Options
Traveling with a four-legged buddy? Find local pet-friendly accommodations with ease.
Camping
Local campgrounds provide a budget-friendly and outdoorsy base camp close to the city’s courses and attractions, pick from full hookup RV sites and tent camping with amenities like fishing lakes, trails, and sports courts.
Quick Summary
Friday PM , Arrival + Greenbelt GC + Dinner/Drinks
Saturday AM , Otter Creek GC Main Round
Saturday PM , Relax/Bonus Golf + Night Out
Sunday AM , Brunch + Clifty Creek GC Final Round
Day 2 – Saturday: Full Golf Day
Morning: Main Golf Round – Otter Creek Golf Course
Columbus takes its golf seriously, and no course embodies that better than Otter Creek Golf Course, a celebrated public course designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr. Recognized as one of Indiana’s finest, Otter Creek offers 27 championship holes spread across three scenic 9-hole layouts: North, East, and West. Golfers love the rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, and strategic challenges that make each round memorable. Regulars know to book early tee times, typically around 8:30 or 9:00 AM, to take full advantage of the morning light and prime playing conditions. Learn from the best and check out Otter Creeks channel!
After your round, head straight to the Otter Creek clubhouse for a laid-back lunch that hits the spot. The menu keeps things simple and satisfying, think stacked sandwiches, juicy burgers, and a cold beer or two to toast the front nine or forget the back. With views of the course and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to refuel and relive the highlights of your game.
Afternoon: Relaxation or Extra Golf
Still have energy to burn after lunch? If you’re up for more golf, consider squeezing in a quick round at the local Par 3 course, a great low-pressure option, especially if kids are tagging along for the weekend or if you are new to golfing.
Prefer to slow things down? Head back to your hotel to relax by the pool or take a leisurely stroll through downtown Columbus, where world-renowned architecture and public art offer plenty to explore. Need some suggestions, we can help!
And for those looking to keep the competitive spirit alive without hitting the links again, Donner Park’s pickleball courts are a fun way to mix in some fast-paced action with a lighter twist.
Evening: Night Out
As the sun sets, elevate your evening with dinner and drinks at some of Columbus’s top spots. For a more refined experience, Henry Social Club delivers with its upscale steak entrées, seasonal small plates, and expertly crafted cocktails, all in a sleek, intimate setting. It’s a favorite for a reason, so reservations are highly recommended.
If your crew prefers a more relaxed vibe, head out to 450 North Brewing Company, where you’ll find a rotating lineup of creative beer releases, stone-fired pizzas, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Bonus: the property also features a winery and whiskey distillery, making it a one-stop destination for everyone’s drink of choice.
Night Cap?
Cap off the night with a laid-back stop at one of Columbus’s favorite local bars. Whether you’re craving one last round or just want to soak up the small-town nightlife, spots like The Garage Pub & Grill and 4th Street Bar & Grill offer the perfect setting. Expect cold drinks, friendly locals, and live music on Saturdays to keep the good vibes going into the late hours. Best of all, they’re less than a block apart, so why not make it a mini bar hop and enjoy the best of both?
Day 3 – Sunday: Farewell Round & Departure
After a packed weekend of fairways and fun, Sunday is all about winding down with good food and one last round.
Morning: Brunch
Fuel up with a laid-back brunch before hitting the course. Hangar 5 is your go-to if you’re craving a classic spread—think eggs, bacon, biscuits, and coffee strong enough to revive the crew. For a more scenic, low-key vibe, head back to Upland Columbus Pump House, where you can sip a beermosa or local brew while enjoying a riverfront view.
Late Morning: Final Golf Round
Close out the weekend with a casual round at Clifty Creek Golf Course, a relaxed 18-hole track that’s ideal for a final swing session. It’s a low-pressure course with a gentler pace, perfect for easing into the day and reflecting on the weekend’s best shots (and laughs).
