Golf in Richmond VA

Richmond’s golf scene offers more than a day on the greens—it’s a tapestry of tradition, accessibility, and Southern hospitality. With public courses that welcome beginners, historic private clubs that host professionals, and a growing ecosystem of practice ranges and mini-golf destinations, Richmond delivers a golf experience as varied as the region’s landscape.

Where to Play: From Legacy Courses to Local Favorites

One of Richmond’s most storied golf venues is Belmont Golf Course in Henrico County. Once a PGA Tour stop where legends like Sam Snead played, Belmont was reimagined in 2021 by First Tee – Greater Richmond as a community-forward facility. Today, it features a 12-hole championship course, a 6-hole short course called Little Bell, and The Ringer, an 18-hole putting course. It’s approachable, family-friendly, and tailored to both first-timers and regulars.

South of the James, Independence Golf Club in Chesterfield County blends championship-level play with modern flair. With its expansive short course, high-end practice facilities, simulators, and an on-site restaurant, it’s as much a social space as a golf destination. Independence often ranks among the state’s best public courses and regularly hosts local tournaments.

Other beloved public options include The Crossings Golf Club in Glen Allen—recently purchased and being renovated by Henrico County—and Providence Golf Club in south Richmond. Both offer solid layouts and seasonal specials, with Providence especially known for its peaceful setting and friendly staff. Courses stretch beyond the immediate metro as well, with nearby destinations offering even more choice for regional players looking to explore.

Private Clubs: Prestige and Personality

Richmond’s private club scene is both expansive and storied. Salisbury Country Club is likely the most populous, with a large and active membership spanning multiple generations. At the other end of the spectrum, Kinloch Golf Club is known for exclusivity, elite conditions, and national recognition—often cited among the top courses in the country.

The Country Club of Virginia (CCV), founded in 1908, remains a social and competitive anchor in the local golf scene, alongside other prestigious clubs like The Dominion Club in Glen Allen and Willow Oaks Country Club, which offer challenging layouts and full-service amenities.

Driving Ranges, Practice Facilities & Mini-Golf

Golf in Richmond goes beyond 18-hole courses. Practice ranges and entertainment venues offer casual ways to swing a club. Windy Hill Sports Complex in Midlothian features a traditional driving range, 9-hole course, mini-golf, batting cages, and even footgolf. First Tee’s Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range in downtown Richmond blends youth instruction with public access to a top-tier short-game facility.

Drive Shack, located near the airport, adds a high-tech, social spin on practice with climate-controlled hitting bays, food and drink service, and virtual games. Further west, Patterson Golf Park offers a classic no-frills driving range that’s especially popular for quick buckets after work.

Mini-golf also has its place in the region’s golf ecosystem. From seasonal setups to classic putt-putt centers, these destinations draw families and casual players. Together, these options ensure golf remains accessible, even for those who aren’t ready to tee off on a full course.

Youth, Accessibility, and a Growing Golf Culture

Golf in Richmond isn’t just for adults. First Tee – Greater Richmond is reshaping how the game connects with young people. Through character-building programs and low-pressure clinics at facilities like Belmont and the Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range, the organization introduces golf to thousands of local kids each year.

That same sense of welcome is extended to adaptive golfers. In partnership with Sportable, First Tee launched Richmond’s first adaptive golf pilot program in 2023. Hosted at the driving range, the initiative uses specialized equipment and instruction to provide an inclusive environment for athletes with disabilities. These are small but meaningful steps toward making Richmond one of the most accessible midsize golf markets in the country.

Tournaments, Talent, and Community Energy

Richmond's golf calendar is full of grassroots energy. Courses like Independence and The Crossings run amateur brackets, charity scrambles, and junior championships throughout the year. Providence Golf Club’s frequent leagues and night golf events create a relaxed, low-stakes way to keep your swing in shape.

The city also has ties to notable names in the sport. Hall of Famer Sam Snead, one of golf's all-time greats, was a longtime Richmond resident and member of the local Rotary Club. Other PGA Tour pros also trace roots back to the region, underscoring Richmond's quiet but impactful role in American golf history.

Why Golfers Keep Coming Back

It’s not just the variety of layouts that makes Richmond a special place to golf—it’s the feel. From chatting with a starter who’s worked the same course for decades to watching high schoolers practice their short game at First Tee, Richmond’s golf culture is personal. It’s a place where beginners can find their footing without intimidation, and where skilled players can chase low rounds on championship-caliber turf.

Whether you're squeezing in nine holes after work, bringing the family out on a sunny Sunday, or traveling to catch a pro event, Richmond’s golf scene has the fairways, the people, and the energy to make it worthwhile.