We’ll let you in on a secret… Binder Park Golf Course is a hidden gem

We know golf enthusiasts are always looking for the best deal, and they can find it at Binder Park Golf Course.

“The premise of a city owning a golf course is to have affordable golf for its citizens in the community,” Golf Pro Ron Osborne said.

The prices are lower, but you’re still going to find a quality course that will keep you going all day long.

Here are seven reasons to check out this hidden gem:

Play 27 holes in one day
You can play three rounds of golf on one course. The three tracks, with nine holes each, are called: The Preserve, The Marsh and The Natural.
As the names imply, you’ll walk through Michigan forests and wetlands, with bluffs and multi-level play.

Each one has a different approach, so you won’t get that deja vu feeling. 

It’s good pace of play
Just as more open lanes on the highway means fewer traffic jams, a larger course means you’re less likely to run into other groups.

“We’re able to spread out our players, and so that way the pace of play is faster. There’s not as many people,” Ron said.

You have a challenge
“I think that our property has an Up North feel, a feel of Northern Michigan, with the change in topography,” Ron said. “It’s by no means flat. It’s very rolling and hilly and changes in elevation on many different parts of the golf course.”

Like any wooded courses, there are also times you’re going to need to hit straight. But most golfers also find the layout to be forgiving. Even on a day when your swing doesn’t go right, you should have fun.

Get equipped like the pros
One club size doesn’t fit all. That’s why the pro shop at Binder Park specializes in custom club fittings.

There’s an art and a science to club fitting, so training is required. Ron has taken the classes and does most of the fittings himself. He also hosts events, such as putter fitting days.

If you want to try the newest clubs, keep an eye out for demo days in the spring, when representatives from the top five golf equipment companies bring in their wares for you to try.

Learn something new
Even high-level golfers worry about making an embarrassing shot in front of their friends.Take a chance to warm up in one of Binder Park’s practice areas — which include putting, chopping and a sandtrap — hit some balls on the driving range or give the three-hole practice course a try.

If you need any tips, there are lessons for all ages and abilities. The First Tee Learning Academy is aimed at kids and there’s an introduction tour for anyone who wants to try golf but doesn’t know where to start. 

The zoo is next door
The golf course runs alongside Binder Park Zoo. While you’re not going to see any lions on the golf course, you can hear their roars.

If you need a break from golf, the zoo has a collection of animals from around the world. Take a tram ride to an African wilderness park, feed the giraffes and come face-to-face with a snow leopard.

Find nightlife at the casino
When it’s too dark to golf, the FireKeepers Casino Hotel is only a 10-minute drive away.

Once there, you will find game tables and slot machines. It’s also worth trying one of the restaurants, which serve up some of the best food in the area. There are some new rules to check out, so make sure you take a look before your big night.

If you’re interested in getting a quote for a customizable golf package with personalized service, email [email protected] or call 1-877-MI-SWING.