Arizona‘s Golf Scene Teeing Up Record Tourism as Nine Courses Attract Global Players
PHOENIX, AZ – October 16, 2025, 12:16:12 MST – arizona’s reputation as a premier golf destination is surging, with courses across teh state reporting increased bookings and international interest. A confluence of factors – including favorable weather, distinctive desert landscapes, and world-class course design – is driving a boom in golf tourism, injecting millions into the state’s economy. This heightened demand comes as Arizona actively courts upscale travelers seeking unique outdoor experiences, positioning golf as a key component of its tourism strategy. The next several months are projected to be peak season, with courses preparing for a significant influx of players through spring 2026.
The state’s unique combination of warm climate and dramatic scenery has cultivated a golfing surroundings unlike any other in the world.Arizona’s courses aren’t simply places to play; they are immersive experiences where the vibrant greens sharply contrast with the muted tones of the surrounding desert. This distinctive aesthetic, coupled with challenging layouts, attracts golfers of all skill levels, from seasoned professionals to weekend enthusiasts. Below are nine of Arizona’s best, each offering a unique test of skill and a memorable visual experience.
1. Troon North Golf Club (Monument Course): Located in Scottsdale, the Monument Course, designed by Jay Moorish, consistently ranks among the top courses nationally. Its rugged terrain and challenging holes provide a demanding yet rewarding experience.
2. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Saguaro Course): Also in Scottsdale, the Saguaro Course, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, emphasizes a minimalist approach, blending seamlessly with the natural desert landscape.
3. Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor Course): Another Scottsdale gem, the Raptor Course, designed by Tom Fazio, is known for its dramatic elevation changes and strategic bunkering.
4. TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course): Home of the annual Waste Management Phoenix Open, this course is famous for its lively atmosphere and challenging layout. It’s a must-play for those seeking a taste of professional tournament golf.
5. Desert Ridge Golf Club (Hale Irwin Course): Situated in Phoenix, this course, designed by Hale Irwin, offers stunning views and a challenging layout that tests all aspects of a golfer’s game.
6. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club: Located in Maricopa, this links-style course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., provides a unique desert golfing experience reminiscent of customary Scottish links.
7. Boulders Resort & Spa (North Course): In Carefree, the North Course at Boulders, designed by Jay Morrish, is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and challenging layout.
8. Quintero Golf Club: Situated north of Phoenix, Quintero offers a secluded and challenging experience with panoramic desert views. Designed by Nick Faldo, it’s known for its strategic bunkering and undulating greens.
9.Legacy Golf Resort (Monarch Course): Located in Mesa, the Monarch Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, provides a challenging and scenic experience with water features and strategically placed bunkers.
Arizona’s golf courses represent a significant economic driver for the state, attracting both domestic and international visitors. The continued investment in course maintenance and design, coupled with the state’s favorable climate, ensures Arizona will remain a premier golf destination for years to come.
