Harper Lin
The PGA Tour has a rich history in St. Louis, with several golf courses in the area hosting prestigious events over the years. One notable course that has played a significant role in PGA Tour history is Bellerive Country Club, located in the western suburbs of St. Louis. This renowned golf course has hosted multiple major championships, including the PGA Championship, most recently in 2018. With its challenging layout, impeccable conditioning, and rich tradition, Bellerive Country Club has solidified its place as a premier golf destination in the St. Louis area and a favorite among professional golfers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Bellerive Country Club |
| Location | 12925 Ladue Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141, USA |
| Established | 1897 |
| Designer | Original: Robert Foulis; Redesign: Rees Jones (2005-2006) |
| Par | 71 |
| Yardage | Approximately 7,547 yards (varies by tournament setup) |
| Notable Tournaments | PGA Championship (2018), U.S. Senior Open (2013), BMW Championship (2008) |
| Course Type | Private |
| Greens | Bentgrass |
| Fairways | Bentgrass |
| Rough | Bluegrass/Fescue mix |
| Signature Hole | Hole 18 (Par 4, 495 yards) |
| Amenities | Clubhouse, pro shop, practice facilities, dining |
| Membership | Private, invitation-only |
| Recent Renovations | 2005-2006 (Rees Jones redesign for PGA Championship) |
| Website | Bellerive Country Club |
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What You'll Learn
- Old Warson Country Club - Exclusive, private club, hosted 1953 PGA Championship, renowned for challenging layout and elite membership
- Bellevue Country Club - Historic course, hosted 1931 PGA Championship, features classic design and scenic views
- Norwood Hills Country Club - Hosted 1948 PGA Championship, known for its undulating greens and strategic bunkers
- St. Louis Country Club - Prestigious club, no PGA events, but notable for its elite status and design
- Persimmon Woods Golf Club - Public course, no PGA history, offers accessible play and well-maintained fairways
Old Warson Country Club - Exclusive, private club, hosted 1953 PGA Championship, renowned for challenging layout and elite membership
Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, Old Warson Country Club stands as a testament to exclusivity and golfing excellence. In 1953, it became the stage for the PGA Championship, a moment that cemented its place in golf history. This private sanctuary, accessible only to its elite membership, is not just a golf course but a symbol of prestige and tradition. Its layout, designed to challenge even the most seasoned professionals, remains a topic of reverence among golf enthusiasts.
To understand Old Warson’s allure, consider its design philosophy. The course demands precision, strategy, and mental fortitude. Unlike public courses that cater to a broad audience, Old Warson’s narrow fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed bunkers are tailored to test the limits of skill. For instance, the par-4 7th hole, with its dogleg right and guarded green, requires a calculated approach—a fade off the tee followed by a precise iron shot. This level of complexity is a hallmark of the course, making it a favorite among those who thrive on challenge.
Membership at Old Warson is as coveted as its greens are immaculate. The club’s elite roster includes business leaders, professionals, and golf aficionados who value privacy and camaraderie. Prospective members must navigate a rigorous invitation process, often requiring sponsorship from existing members. This exclusivity fosters a sense of community and ensures that the club’s traditions are preserved. For those seeking to join, networking within St. Louis’s upper echelons is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
Hosting the 1953 PGA Championship was a defining moment for Old Warson, but its legacy extends beyond that singular event. The club has consistently maintained its reputation as a premier golfing destination, attracting high-profile tournaments and exhibitions. Its commitment to excellence is evident in its meticulous course maintenance, where every blade of grass is tended to with precision. For golfers aspiring to play here, the experience is as much about the history and ambiance as it is about the game itself.
In a city with no shortage of golf courses, Old Warson Country Club distinguishes itself through its exclusivity, historical significance, and uncompromising standards. It’s not just a place to play golf—it’s an institution that embodies the sport’s elite spirit. Whether you’re a member or a spectator, Old Warson offers a glimpse into a world where tradition, challenge, and prestige converge on the fairways.
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Bellevue Country Club - Historic course, hosted 1931 PGA Championship, features classic design and scenic views
Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, Bellevue Country Club stands as a testament to the rich history of golf in America. Established in the early 20th century, this storied course has left an indelible mark on the sport, most notably as the host of the 1931 PGA Championship. This event, won by legendary golfer Tom Creavy, cemented Bellevue’s place in golf’s annals, making it one of the few courses in the region to have hosted a major championship. Its enduring legacy is not just in its past but in the meticulously preserved design that continues to challenge and inspire golfers today.
The classic design of Bellevue Country Club is a masterclass in timeless golf architecture. Crafted during the Golden Age of golf course design, the layout emphasizes strategy over brute force, rewarding precision and thoughtful shot-making. Tree-lined fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed bunkers create a harmonious balance between beauty and difficulty. Unlike modern courses that often rely on length and gimmicks, Bellevue’s design invites players to engage with the course intellectually, making every round a unique and memorable experience.
Beyond its historical significance and design, Bellevue’s scenic views are a defining feature that sets it apart. Situated on rolling terrain, the course offers panoramic vistas of the St. Louis skyline and the surrounding natural landscape. The interplay of light and shadow across the course throughout the day adds an artistic dimension to the game, enhancing the overall experience. For golfers, it’s not just about playing a round but immersing oneself in a setting that feels both grand and intimate.
For those considering a visit, Bellevue Country Club offers more than just a golf course—it provides a journey through history. Practical tips for first-time visitors include arriving early to soak in the atmosphere and exploring the clubhouse, which houses memorabilia from the 1931 PGA Championship. While the course is private, guest access is available through member invitations, making it an exclusive yet attainable destination for golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a history buff, a design aficionado, or simply a lover of the game, Bellevue Country Club is a must-play course that bridges the past and present of golf.
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Norwood Hills Country Club - Hosted 1948 PGA Championship, known for its undulating greens and strategic bunkers
Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, Norwood Hills Country Club stands as a testament to the city’s rich golfing heritage. In 1948, it became the stage for the PGA Championship, a tournament that crowned Ben Hogan as the champion. This historic event cemented Norwood Hills’ place in golf’s annals, but it’s the course’s design that keeps it relevant today. Unlike modern layouts that prioritize length, Norwood Hills relies on precision and strategy, a throwback to an era when skill trumped power.
The course’s undulating greens are its defining feature, demanding a keen eye for slope and speed. Players must approach each putt with caution, as even a slight miscalculation can lead to a frustrating three-putt. For instance, the 7th green, with its severe back-to-front tilt, rewards those who favor placement over aggression. Beginners and high handicappers should focus on lag putting here, aiming to leave themselves with manageable comebacks rather than risking overshooting the hole.
Strategically placed bunkers further elevate the challenge at Norwood Hills. Unlike courses where sand traps feel arbitrary, these bunkers are integral to the course’s defense, often guarding critical landing zones and greens. The par-5 12th hole exemplifies this design philosophy, with a fairway bunker that forces players to decide between a safe layup or a high-risk, high-reward attempt to reach the green in two. Pro tip: study the course’s aerial map beforehand to identify bunker positions and plan your approach shots accordingly.
What sets Norwood Hills apart is its ability to engage players of all skill levels. While seasoned golfers appreciate the nuanced greens and tactical bunkers, amateurs can enjoy the course’s classic layout without feeling overwhelmed. The key is to play smart—prioritize accuracy over distance, and don’t be afraid to take an extra club on approach shots to account for elevation changes. For those looking to improve their game, Norwood Hills offers a masterclass in course management, teaching lessons that translate to any golf course.
In a world of flashy, modern designs, Norwood Hills remains a reminder of golf’s timeless principles. Its role as the 1948 PGA Championship host is more than a historical footnote—it’s a badge of honor that underscores its enduring quality. Whether you’re a history buff, a strategic thinker, or simply a golfer seeking a fair but challenging test, Norwood Hills delivers. Just remember: respect the greens, beware the bunkers, and let the course teach you a thing or two about the game.
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St. Louis Country Club - Prestigious club, no PGA events, but notable for its elite status and design
While the PGA Tour has graced several St. Louis courses, the St. Louis Country Club stands apart. Unlike its counterparts that host professional tournaments, this exclusive club prioritizes privacy and tradition over the spectacle of televised golf.
Its absence from the PGA schedule isn't a reflection of quality. In fact, the opposite is true. The St. Louis Country Club's design, a masterpiece by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a testament to strategic brilliance and timeless elegance. Rolling fairways, undulating greens, and strategically placed hazards demand precision and reward thoughtful play, challenging golfers of all skill levels.
The club's elite status stems from its meticulous attention to detail, both on and off the course. Immaculate grounds, unparalleled service, and a sense of community fostered over generations create an atmosphere of refined exclusivity. Membership is highly sought-after, a symbol of prestige and a gateway to a world of privilege.
This exclusivity, however, comes at a cost. The St. Louis Country Club remains a private sanctuary, accessible only to its members and their guests. While it may not host the roar of the crowd or the glare of television cameras, its reputation as a golfing haven is undeniable. For those fortunate enough to experience it, the St. Louis Country Club offers an unparalleled blend of sporting excellence and social distinction.
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Persimmon Woods Golf Club - Public course, no PGA history, offers accessible play and well-maintained fairways
While St. Louis boasts courses like Bellerive Country Club, which has hosted multiple PGA Championships, Persimmon Woods Golf Club carves its own niche in the local golf scene. Unlike its prestigious counterparts, Persimmon Woods doesn't chase the PGA spotlight. Instead, it prioritizes accessibility and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all skill levels.
Imagine a course where weekend warriors and aspiring pros alike can tee off without the intimidation factor often associated with championship-caliber layouts. Persimmon Woods delivers precisely that. Its public access model eliminates membership barriers, allowing anyone to experience its well-maintained fairways and challenging yet forgiving design.
This focus on inclusivity doesn't come at the expense of quality. Persimmon Woods takes pride in its meticulously groomed greens and fairways, ensuring a consistently enjoyable playing experience. The course layout, while not designed to test the mettle of touring professionals, offers a balanced challenge that rewards strategic shot-making without punishing minor errors.
Think of it as the antithesis of the exclusive, high-pressure environment often associated with PGA-hosting venues. Persimmon Woods embraces the social and recreational aspects of the game, fostering a community feel where the emphasis is on camaraderie and enjoyment rather than competition and prestige.
For those seeking a break from the pressures of tournament-style golf or simply looking for a welcoming environment to hone their skills, Persimmon Woods Golf Club stands as a refreshing alternative. Its commitment to accessibility, coupled with its well-maintained facilities, makes it a hidden gem in the St. Louis golf landscape, proving that not all great golf experiences require a PGA pedigree.
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Frequently asked questions
Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis has hosted PGA Tour events, including the 2018 PGA Championship.
Yes, Old Warson Country Club hosted the 1955 U.S. Women's Open, and Norwood Hills Country Club hosted the 1948 PGA Championship.
No, Norwood Hills Country Club also hosted the PGA Championship in 1948, making it the first St. Louis course to do so.
While there are no confirmed future events, Bellerive Country Club remains a strong candidate due to its successful hosting history and course quality.
