Course Review: Columbia Golf Course

August 8, 2008

Urban courses are often at a disadvantage because the land was acquired long before high-performance golf balls and 7,200 yard championship courses. Columbia Golf Course, located in Northeast Minneapolis, is actually the second oldest course in the Minneapolis park system. Founded in 1919, it has evolved over the years and continues to a very busy and popular golf course. At 6371 yards from the tips, it is well within the capabilities of most golfers.

Shoehorned by the city, the course tries to overcome its limited length with mature trees, strategically placed bunkers, hazards and changing elevations. On certain holes, hitting into the side of a hill isn’t necessarily a bad thing and will generally give you a good lie. Although very compact, there are still some decent walks that must be made between a few holes, reminding you that you should have rented a cart.

The clubhouse has a country club feel with a small pro shop and a nice eating area with flat screen TVs. Upstairs is an event area and when we were there a retirement party was in process. The facility is nicely organized with parking only a short distance from the first tee. One major drawback is that although they have a nice practice center (Columbia Driving Range), it is not within walking distance and is situated on the opposite site of the course. A golfer who wanted to hit a few balls before his round would need to add at least 30 minutes to his day.

Unlike many overly busy urban courses, the staff, from the food counter to the starter, was all very pleasant and efficient. Where the course seemed to need some help was maintenance. Although the day the course was rated the weather had been dry, the course seemed to have a number of fairways and a couple of greens with brown or dead spots. This could be partially attributed to the weather, but other courses rated at the same time didn’t seem to have this problem so it doesn’t appear that this is the only reason.

For the average golfer, you can’t beat the value. At less than $30, you can play this urban course and not have to make an hour’s drive to get there. The course seems to mirror its working-class urban location, so if you are looking for a fancy, well-manicured track, this isn’t your course. If you are looking for a chance to score well where the staff is pleasant, the course should give you a shot at lowering your score.

Columbia Golf Course
612-789-2627
www.minneapolisparks.org

Excerpt from Hacker’s Guide to Twin Cities Golf (c) 2008-2009
www.hackersguides.com

Bookmark This Post: