Nice golf course for husbands 65th birthday

Question

I want to find a nice golf course for my husband's 65th birthday. We will also need a place to stay. I won't be golfing, so I would like to find a course not to far away from shopping while he is golfing if that is possible. Will be going mid September, so I am hoping the golf/room rates might go down a little. Thanks for your help.

Answer

Traverse City and the surrounding Grand Traverse area offer several excellent golf courses with beautiful scenery, well-maintained fairways, and convenient lodging nearby. Mid-September is a great time to visit — the weather is typically pleasant, and rates for both golf and hotels may be slightly lower than peak summer pricing.

Here are some recommended golf courses along with nearby lodging and shopping options:

Grand Traverse Resort & Spa – The Bear Golf Course: One of Michigan’s top public courses, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The resort has multiple lodging options, a spa, and dining, so non-golfers have plenty to do. It’s a short drive to downtown Traverse City for shopping and restaurants.
The Bear at Grand Traverse Resort – The Wolverine Course: Another highly rated course at the same resort, offering scenic views and challenging holes. Staying at the resort gives easy access to downtown Traverse City and its shops.
Traverse City Golf & Country Club: A private club that offers guest rounds for visitors if arranged in advance. It’s located near downtown, making it easy for you to explore local boutiques, cafes, and galleries while he plays.
Chateau Chantal Vineyards & Winery – Golf nearby: While primarily known for wine and beautiful hilltop views, some nearby courses provide picturesque, smaller-scale golfing experiences. Staying at nearby B&Bs or inns provides access to both wine tasting and downtown shopping.
Bay Meadows Golf Club: Public course just a short drive from Traverse City with a friendly atmosphere and well-kept greens. Nearby accommodations include motels and inns within a 10-15 minute drive, keeping you close to shopping.

Additional tips to make the birthday trip special:

Book tee times and hotel accommodations in advance — even in September, weekends can be busy.
Consider courses at resorts that offer spa, pool, or dining options for non-golfers.
Downtown Traverse City has charming shops, art galleries, and cafes, making it easy to spend a few hours while he enjoys golf.
Check for birthday packages — some resorts offer special perks like complimentary drinks, cake, or discounted golf rounds for birthday celebrations.

In summary, Grand Traverse Resort & Spa is the top pick for convenience, high-quality golf, and amenities for both golfers and non-golfers. Other options like Traverse City Golf & Country Club or Bay Meadows provide good golfing experiences with nearby shopping and lodging. Planning ahead in mid-September should allow you to enjoy favorable rates while celebrating a memorable 65th birthday.