Trip to Tee

Straits to Erin: Wisconsin's Major Championship Golf Trip

Whistling Straits, Blackwolf Run, The Bull and Erin Hills in 57 miles.

Wisconsin has become a major golf destination. Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run sit beside Kohler along Lake Michigan, The Bull is a Jack Nicklaus design, and Erin Hills has hosted the U.S. Open.

This is the premium Midwest trip. The Straits Course hosted the Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships; Blackwolf Run's River Course hosted the U.S. Women's Open; Erin Hills hosted the U.S. Open.

The Bull at Pinehurst Farms is the less expensive option and makes the trip more affordable.

Region
Midwest
Courses
4
Total driving
57 miles
Duration
3 days
Estimated green fees
~$1624
Difficulty
Championship

Courses in this guide

  1. Whistling Straits (Straits Course) — Sheboygan, Wisconsin
  2. Blackwolf Run - River — Kohler, Wisconsin
  3. The Bull at Pinehurst Farms Golf Course — Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin
  4. Erin Hills Golf Course — Erin, Wisconsin

Suggested itineraries

  1. Day 1: Whistling Straits

    Arrive and play the Straits Course. Walking is encouraged and caddies are available.

  2. Day 2: Blackwolf Run and The Bull

    Play the River Course in the morning and The Bull in the afternoon.

  3. Day 3: Erin Hills

    Drive about 50 miles south to Erin and play before heading to Milwaukee.

Where to stay

  • The American Club at Kohler: Flagship resort.
  • Inn on Woodlake: Moderately priced Kohler stay.
  • Sheboygan Marriott: City option.
  • Erin Hills Overnight Cottages: On-site stay.
  • Iron Horse Hotel Milwaukee: City stay before flying home.

Where to eat

  • The Horse & Plow: The American Club's pub.
  • The Immigrant Restaurant: Fine dining at Kohler.
  • Illinois Street Food Emporium: Sheboygan.
  • Jack's Grill: Sheboygan Falls.
  • Sprecher Brewing Co: Milwaukee.

Getting around

A car is required. Total driving is about 57 miles; the first three courses are within 5 miles of each other. Milwaukee's airport is about an hour from Kohler.

Best time to visit

May through September. June has long days; fall is beautiful but cool.

Budget tips

  • Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run are expensive; The Bull is far cheaper.
  • Twilight rates can save 30 percent or more.
  • Stay in Sheboygan instead of Kohler to cut lodging costs.
  • Consider replacing Straits with Sand Valley or Lawsonia Links for a lower price.

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