Great Escape: Take in the Great Outdoors During a Round of Golf

Golf holds appeal to many and for many reasons. For some it’s the challenge of earning a competitive score. For others it’s the chance to spend a few hours outdoors taking in an all too brief Michigan summer. And still for others it’s a chance to catch up with friends. Whatever appeal it holds, golf certainly qualifies as a great escape.

The Farmington Hills Golf Course has an interesting history dating back to 1963, when it was a nine-hole attraction known as the San Marino Golf Course. The course was purchased by the city in 1978. Twenty years later, the city began to acquire additional property around the course, enabling it to add a driving range and an additional nine holes. A tunnel was also built under Halsted Road to connect the two nine-hole courses.

Today guests can enjoy 6,413 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71. The clubhouse touts a full-service restaurant known as the Pine Tree Grill, a pro shop and an outdoor patio. On Saturdays, take advantage of the club’s “Nine and Dine” deal, which includes nine holes of golf for two and dinner for $66 at the Pine Tree Grill.

Eighteen holes also awaits at the Glen Oaks Golf Course featuring a par 70 course with challenging par 3 holes crossing streams and rolling terrain. The course offers 6,051 yards of golf and a 1920's English-style stone clubhouse to boot. “Tee to Green” cart paths enable play in even rainy weather.

Finally, there's , located on 77 acres of gorgeous wooded property in Farmington Hills. This nine-hole, par 35 course features elevated tees and greens. Its wide-open layout ensures you'll thoroughly enjoy every round you play. And after you stow your clubs, stop in at nearby Steven Lelli's on the Green for dinner.

Golf with a Birmingham leisure pass

Birmingham boasts two public golf courses: and . Both nine hole courses, Springdale and Lincoln Hills are open to Birmingham residents and non-residents alike, though residents enjoy special rates. Non-residents and businesses can purchase a Birmingham leisure pass to golf both courses.

Originally built in 1929, Springdale underwent renovations in 2000 that included new greens and tees, as well as steam bank restoration of the Rouge River, aesthetically enhancing the course. The par for men and women is 34, and the course ranges from 2,732 yards from the blue tees to 2,196 yards from the red tees. The park also includes a sprawling picnic area with pavilion and playground for little ones to enjoy.

Built in 1964, Lincoln Hills offers rolling terrain and a longer course than you’ll find at Springdale. The par for men and women is 35, and the course ranges from 3,023 yards from the blue tees to 2,336 yards from the red tees. The Lincoln Hills Clubhouse was recently renovated and offers an inviting atmosphere to take in lunch or a post-round snack.

Bay Pointe offers public course to West Bloomfield residents

Eighteen holes of public golf await West Bloomfield residents at the Bay Pointe course at Bay Pointe Golf Club. The course offers 6,220 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71. Built in 1966, the Bay Pointe Golf Course offers beautiful views of Middle Straits Lake. It also features a driving range, putting green and pro-shop. It also offers on-course beverage service and two golf menus in the clubhouse.