By Linda Dillenbeck
Updated: May 2023
When playing golf in Tucson, don’t hurry, don’t worry, and don’t keep your head down for too long. Look up every now and then or you’ll miss the stunning backdrop Mother Nature gives the game here.
The collection of golf options ranges from stately Omni Tucson National Resort, (former host) of the PGA Tour Champions Cologuard Classic, to the “new kid on the block,” Sewailo Golf Club, where course designer Notah Begay blended native landscape with foliage, lakes, and meandering streams.
Between these two are choices that include a private country club experience at the Westin La Paloma, a property that was once a historic stagecoach stop at JW Marriott Starr Pass, and one of the most photographed holes west of the Mississippi on the Mountain Course at Ventana Canyon Golf Club.
Some test their game by playing through the rugged mountain ridges and canyons of El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Club, while others head south to Tubac Golf Resort and play a hole made famous by fictional golfer Roy McAvoy in Tin Cup.
Consider exploring the six municipal golf courses in Tucson. Randolph North was home to the Tucson Open when Johnny Miller was winning in the 1980s. At Crooked Tree you’ll be surrounded by saguaro cacti and native ironwood and mesquite trees until the last putt drops.
Following in their footsteps
Tucson has hosted professional golf tournaments since 1945. If you like to play where the pros do, here are some options:
Omni Tucson National Resort, Catalina Course
Current home of the Cologuard Classic
Randolph North Golf Course
Past host to multiple PGA Tour & LPGA events
Golf Club at Dove Mountain
Past host of the WGC Accenture Match Play
Starr Pass Golf Club
Past host to PGA Tour events
Whatever you choose, great golf set upon a breathtaking canvas is all teed up for you in Tucson. Just look up occasionally and remember to bring your camera.