It’s been a snowy winter in the Northeast and Midwest, so thinking about playing golf has been a pipedream for many.
Yet, as spring and summer emerge from the cold and wet winter, the opportunities to experience some new or renewed courses make 2026 exciting.
The new Scarecrow course at Gamble Sands would be worth a visit.
Situated almost equally distant from Seattle and Spokane in Brewster, Washington, the drive from Spokane is much easier and shorter than extricating yourself from the hustle and bustle of Seattle.
Designed by David McLay Kidd and named Best New Public Course for 2025 by Golf Digest, the second course built in the middle of Washington is a distinct experience.
With accommodations added since building the first course, Gamble Sands in 2014, the addition of Quicksands, a 14-hole short course, and Cascade, a large putting course, this Pacific Northwest destination is a full-fledged resort and not just a place to stop in for a round on the way to some place bigger.
Sand Valley, a Mike Keiser development in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, has added The Commons at Sand Valley and builds on the original Coore & Crenshaw offering. Since its opening in 2017, Sand Valley has grown like a weed, adding Mammoth Dunes designed by Kidd, along with The Lido and Sedge Valley, two Doak designs.
With on-site accommodations, a par-3 course and a putting course, Sand Valley will keep your attention.
Lastly, Old Petty, a Doak design opening in Scotland in May, is the second course at Cabot Highlands. The new addition is modern in design, yet the ruggedness of the land and coastline provides that Scottish experience.
Other notable public course openings to consider in 2026 are The Patch in Augusta, Georgia; Wild Spring Dunes, East, Texas; River Ranch Golf Resort, Pasco, Washington; Streamsong 5th course, Bowling Green, Florida; and SkyFall, Roscommon, Michigan.