What better time to celebrate being a guy than the week leading up to Father’s Day and in a post noting the 5 essentials for a guys golf trip? For all the dad’s and for our father’s, this post is for you! It’s been said that maintaining a connection with buddies as we age is a critical part of a happy life in our later years. For many of us, these relationships are created, forged and maintained on a golf course. This is part of what makes the guys golf trip a necessary vacation for any guy (and gal) who plays the game.

So, before you start planning your next guys trip here are 5 essentials for your trip:

Pick the right guys

Okay, so this might seem obvious, but you know what happens on these deals? You get a guy in your regular group who says he’s got a friend who would love to play. Well, it turns out that this guy is a putz, doesn’t fit in the group and in the end becomes the downer of the group. My advice, go with guys that you can hang with anywhere – at home, on a canoe or in outer space. You need to be with people with whom you can be comfortable. Don’t go on a flyer and invite that one guy who you think could fit in. If someone in your core group isn’t cool with someone, don’t force it. It can make or break your trip.

Pick the right resort

This is the other obvious part. If you’ve got a bunch of guys that like to go out on the town after teeing it up for 36, make sure you go somewhere that has night life nearby. If your group is more mellow, you might want more of a resort that has comfortable condos with nice amenities. Just remember, if you’ve got a party

The Classic at Madden’s par 4 8th hole

group, but that one dude that was invited doesn’t like to go out – see the first tip. Also, be sure to pick a destination that fits the skill level of your group. Of course, as men, we like to be macho and play the toughest courses from the longest tees and in the end we get our tails kicked by the course. Sure, there’s something masochistically wonderful about this, but chances are, you’ll enjoy yourself so much more if you feel like you can actually play the course you’re on.

Get golf rain gear

This is one of those golf accessories that no one likes to buy, but it’s so essential. The good news is that you buy it once and keep it forever. Don’t skimp on this stuff, get the good gear. Like my grandfather used to say about suits, “the most expensive thing you can buy is a cheap (rain) suit. Here’s the deal, if you pay a lot of money to go play golf on a guys trip, you want to play. Is a little rain going to chase you away? No chance. So make sure you have the tools to go out and fully enjoy yourself.

A good bed is important

Okay, I’m showing my age now, but notice, this is not a commentary about the quality of the resort, just make sure you have a place with a good bed and good pillows. Chances are you’re going to be playing a lot of golf and perhaps doing the 12-ounce curls at night and you’re going to want a superb place to lay your head at the end of each day. This will help ensure a good night sleep and make sure your battery is charged for the next day. By the way, a nice place with great beds is even better!

A fishing boat and tackle

Yes, that’s right. At the end of the day, one of the great treats in life is sitting on a boat fishing as the sun sets. Sure it’s a little melancholy and romantic, but after beating your brains on the golf course all day, listening to your buddy chirp in your ear while trying to suck every dollar out of your wallet, there’s something pure and serene about sitting on a boat in a lake. Sure, if you’re inclined – throw in a beer, a stogy and a 5-pound walleye and you’ve got one helluva a day.

So get out and make the most of your next guys golf trip. Remember, you deserve it! Make time to recognize your hard work on those other days, not known as Father’s Day.




Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a non-profit membership organization whose mission is to raise awareness of Minnesota golf courses and resorts as international travel destinations. Our member facilities feature award-winning, championship golf courses and are geographically disbursed across the great state of Minnesota. The combination of exceptional quality and outstanding value make Minnesota one of the best golf destinations in the United States. For more information visit www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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In Biwabik, Minnesota you’ll find two world class golf courses. One is called The Quarry, the other is called The Legend and they’re both part of Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort. They also happen to be two of the best golf courses in the Midwest with The Quarry ranked by Golf Digest as the 20th best public golf course in the United States. We recently caught up with Danae Beaudette, Marketing Director at Giants Ridge and got her opinion on a few aspects of their facility.

What makes Giants Ridge so unique?

The Quarry at Giants Ridge

I’ve always felt what makes our facility stand out against others is the quality and differences in our two courses.  I’ve seen many multiple course facilities that have essentially different versions of the same course.  Our two courses are very different in the way they look and how they play, so much so that most people wouldn’t guess they’re just a couple miles apart by just looking at photographs.

What is the best complement you can receive from a guest?

We have always taken pride in the comments we receive about our customer service.  Our guests expect an excellent product when they visit and we are constantly trying to exceed those expectations.

What are the best months to visit you?

Late September is always one of our busiest times of year and for good reason.  The fall colors in the area are beautiful those last couple weeks of the month and the temperatures give us the crisp cool days that make for great golf.

How would you describe your facility to someone new to Minnesota golf?

Giants Ridge is the premier destination public golf facility in the state.  Both of our courses have been ranked as Minnesota’s best public course so you will not find a higher quality golf experience or value anywhere else.

What is your favorite hole?

My favorite hole at Giants Ridge is #13 at the Quarry course.  I’ve hit anything between a driver down to a 7-iron off the tee because of the different ways the hole can be played.  Scores between 2 and 6 are possible and for a hole that plays just over 300 yards it forces a player to think about what they are doing.

Why do your guests visit you?

Our guests visit us for the quality and value of the golf experience they receive while at Giants Ridge.  I also feel that because our area is away from any metropolitan area we can provide the feeling of getting out of the city to our guests.

What do your guests say are the most fun things to do as a family?

For those not playing golf we offer paved biking trails, disc golf, hiking and mountain bike trails, access to fishing and water sports on the three lakes on property, and a world class disc golf course.

What makes a Giants Ridge vacation a memorable experience?

Many guests tell us that the connections they make to their families and the outdoors make Giants Ridge memorable for them. Giants Ridge offers a serenity that is increasingly difficult to find.   The resort is situated within the true north woods and backed up to thousands of acres of national forests.  It is peaceful, beautiful, and pristine.

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.
 

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When it comes to family-owned resorts with world class amenities and service, Madden’s on Gull Lake comes to mind. It’s earned national recognition for its leadership in the industry and with roots that date back to 1909, if you’re a Minnesotan, you know about Madden’s. Even if you’re not from Minnesota, there’s a good chance you’re aware of it’s championship golf and wonderful family setting on Gull Lake. We recently connected with Glenn Hagberg, Head Golf Professional at Madden’s, and asked him a few questions about this historic resort.

Why do your guests visit you?

Guests visit Madden’s on Gull Lake as a destination lake resort and golf experience.  We have guests that visit from all over the world annually.  Guests who have stayed at other properties tell us they prefer Madden’s for three reasons: 1. Service, 2. Convenience, 3. Quality.  With all 63 holes of golf, 287 guest accommodations and 6 restaurants on one property we provide high service levels and you can put your keys away once you are here.  One would think that the lake and golf courses would be the highlight of the trip, but it’s not uncommon for a guest to tell us that their dining experience and service was over the top – the highlight of their trip!

What makes your signature course, The Classic, unique?

The Classic at Madden’s is Minnesota’s only public course rated both Top 100 and 5 stars by Golf Digest.  The reputation for a meticulously manicured course and uniqueness of every hole is what separates The Classic from being just another great course.  It is also the only public golf course in MN to offer Caddie services.  Our professional caddies come from all over; New York, Florida, Seattle, and Australia to name a few.  They are all 18+ years of age and sport a 13 handicap or less.  Their golf knowledge and personalities significantly adds enjoyment to your Top 100 golf experience.

What is your favorite hole at The Classic?

The funny thing about The Classic, if you ask 18 people what their favorite hole is, you just might get 18 different answers.  That’s the reason The Classic has received so much national acclaim; the variety of hole styles, shot variety, and there isn’t a bad hole on the course.  Personally, my favorite is #11.  The most photographed hole on the course is truly unique to anything I’ve seen.  The Tour Tee measure 444 yds through a tight tree lines shoot and a 265 yd carry to the fairway.  An elevated green perched on a rock wall over a large marsh surrounded by 9 bunkers, 6 of which rest picturesquely on the hillside behind the green.

What is the best complement you can receive from a golfer?

“I’ve played all over the world and The Classic is as good as any top course I’ve ever played”  Every year we have guests visit The Classic from all corners of the globe, and we have the opportunity to meet some amazing people.  Last year a guest from Kansas City Played golf in all 50 states.  “Top 5 favorite courses: The Classic, Bandon Dunes, Kiawah Island, Maui Kai, & Cordellaine.”  That’s pretty good company!

What are the best months to visit you?

May – Early October during the week Monday – Thursday.  Golf in Minnesota is generally played April 1 – Nov 1.  The season at The Classic is the first Friday in May through the second Sunday in October.  We cut out the first and last month of the season to make sure that we provide the Top 100 5-star experience that golfers expect.

What do your guests say are the most fun things to do as a family?

A longtime guest aptly puts it:  “Whatever I happen to be doing at any time is my favorite thing to do at Madden’s”

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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When it comes to playing and staying in the Twin Cities, Bloomington is the place to hang your hat (and clubs!). Here’s who we have in the Minnesota Golf Spotlight: Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau. What courses do they have you ask? Bloomington is home to, and surrounded by, award winning golf courses. Travel south and you’ll find The Legends Club and The Wilds in Prior Lake. You’re a stones throw from Braemar Golf Course and a comfortable drive to Prestwick, Stonebrooke and Ridges at Sand Creek. After your round, settle in to one of the many hotels in the area that make Bloomington one of the busiest travel destinations in the world. Heck, if you’re with your family and have some time to kill and cash to burn, head over to the Mall of America!

We recently caught up with Heather Proskey, Marketing and Events Coordinator at the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau and posed 5 questions to her. Check out her responses below and then come check out Bloomington, MN and remember to bring your clubs!

What are the best months to visit Bloomington?

There is no bad time to visit Bloomington, MN!  With indoor and outdoor activities throughout the year, you will always find something to do in Bloomington, even when you cannot get on the golf course.

How would you describe Bloomington to someone who’s never visited?

Alive with energy and rich in diversity, Bloomington is a dynamic mix of first-class attractions, vibrant restaurants and kid-friendly hotels.  Whether you’re interested in an exhilarating walk in a wildlife refuge or an energizing day filled with attraction hopping, they’ve got you covered!  Bloomington is home to the shopping mecca Mall of America®, adjacent to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport and minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul and is conveniently located in close proximity to many premier golf courses in the metro area.  Book your Stay and Play getaway for the ultimate destination retreat.

Why do travelers visit Bloomington?

Guests come to Bloomington for the ultimate Stay and Play getaway.  With 38 incredible hotel options, all located within a close proximity to many fabulous golf courses, and Mall of America, everyone will be happy to stay in Bloomington for the ultimate getaway!

What do your guests say are the most fun things to do as a family?

Visit Mall of America, its attractions and restaurants. With the purchase of The Big Ticket™ Attraction Pass, visitors have the opportunity to visit 6 of the Twin Cities premier attractions, at 30% off regular admission costs.

What is it that makes a vacation in Bloomington memorable?

Downtime is at a premium when staying in Bloomington.  Visitors can shop, visit an aquarium, ride rollercoasters visit a water park or walk through a wildlife refuge – all in Bloomington.  There are so many opportunities to create memories in Bloomington!

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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Memorial Weekend is days away and if you’re scrambling to make plans – or need a getaway – Grand View Lodge is giving golfers, and non-golfers,  a reason to come see them over the holiday break with some sweet Memorial Day Weekend getaway deals. Here’s what they have going on:

Memorial Weekend – Lodging Only

• May 23-30
• Rates starting at $160/night – based on double occupancy, 2-night minimum plus tax

All-Inclusive Memorial Weekend

• May 23-30
• Rates starting at $265/night – based on double occupancy, 2-night minimum plus tax
• Breakfast and dinner daily
• Unlimited golf at The Garden, 9-hole executive course
• Kids Club

If you add more adults or kids, there’s an additional charge for each package, but if you’ve not stayed and played at Grand View Lodge, you’re missing out on one of the finest resorts in Minnesota. It’s your cabin in the woods without the mortgage and maintenance and, yes, it’s a heck of a lot nicer!

       

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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At long last our friends up north at Giants Ridge have rid themselves of the snow and the never-ending Minnesota winter and are close to being completely open! In fact, The Legend at Giants Ridge is open right now and The Quarry is scheduled to open on May 17. So, here are a few special offers for two of the best golf courses in Minnesota:

37th Hole Special

• 36-holes of golf and lunch. Runs from May 31-September 1
• $125 per person, Monday – Thursday. Add $15 per person Friday – Sunday

Golf, Lunch and Lodging

• Starts at rates of $161 per person per night and it’s based on double occupancy
• Monday – Thursday lodging off site
• Onsite and weekend packages are available as well.

Okay, so here’s the skinny. If you’ve never played Giants Ridge, their two courses are fantastic and some of the most beautiful golf in the country. Keep in mind, The Quarry was just ranked the 20th public course in Golf Digest’s list of Top 100 public golf courses in America. And to play 36-holes for $125 is an absolute steal!

You can go to www.giantsridge.com or call 866-912-2364 to book.

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17th Hole at Edinburgh USA

Edinburgh USA in Brooklyn Park is one of the great golf course designs in Minnesota. Challenging from every tee box, this Robert Trent Jones track is enjoyable for the high handicapper and push the low to mid-handicappers to the limit. With a clubhouse that resembles a castle out of Scotland, Edinburgh USA is a proud facility having played host to professional and USGA events through the years. We caught up with Head Golf Professional, Don Berry, to get his thoughts on the course – what makes it unique and the signature hole at Edinburgh. In this edition we turn the Minnesota Golf Spotlight on Edinburgh USA.

Tell me about Edinburgh USA and what makes it so unique.

• We have a Robert Trent Jones II course that is scenic, challenging yet fun to play, with one of the most famous holes in Minnesota-our 17^th which is an island fairway and a peninsula green plus the second largest green in the world, our triple green which encompasses our 9^th, 18^th and putting green.

What is the best complement you can receive from a golfer?

• That they will back to play it and that the staff was helpful.

What are the best months to visit you?

• It’s Minnesota, so May through September.

How would you describe Edinburgh USA to someone new to Minnesota golf?

• It’s target golf.  The front nine is more links-style with water and sand aplenty, the back nine is more true Minnesota golf; trees and tight.

What is your favorite hole at Edinburgh USA?

• I really like the variety of the holes, my personal favorite is #11 but our signature hole is definitely #17.

Why do golfers play Edinburgh USA?

• Great location, great condition, great value and a world renowned architect (Robert Trent Jones II) built a great course.

What’s one of the most unique things about Edinburgh USA?

• The clubhouse is cool, built as a replica of the famous Edinburgh castle.

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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Madden’s Golf Fest, May 17-19

This should be good especially if you’re looking for a good guys weekend. Golf, trap-shooting and, oh yeah, golf! Here’s their description:

Gather your golf buddies for a weekend packed full of golf, competition, trapshooting & par 3 tournament, best ball & scramble event, evening golf events under the lights, $50 greens fees on The Classic and so much more!  For just $139 per person per night, based on 2 people per room, this package also includes lodging and hearty breakfasts and dinners. 

The folks at Madden’s started their Parent/Child golf tournament on Memorial Day 7-years ago and it’s proven to be a success! Here’s the info:

Parent/Child Memorial Day Golf Tournament, May 26

Start your tradition! Join us for a 2-person 18-hole Better Ball Tournament on historic Pine Beach East. This event is designed for players of all ages and abilities. Click here for more information and to sign up!

We’ll keep you informed with tips and information as the season rolls on. Get your game together and come Explore Minnesota Golf!

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Just a quick note on some wonderful attention that Brian Thuringer and his crew at Madden’s received from Golf Business magazine. Brian Thuringer, owner of Madden’s Resort, is the cover story for May’s Golf Business magazine. The piece showcases the iconic Minnesota golf resort and rich history that is a part of the tradition at Madden’s Resort.

Here’s a link to the e-magazine and you’ll notice, front and center on the cover, none other than Mr. Thuringer himself! Enjoy the read and congrats to everyone at Madden’s.

Brian Thuringer

Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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Big Numbers, not in Minnesota golf

In the April edition of Golf Digest, writer Peter Finch breaks down the price increase at Top 100 golf courses in America in his piece Money Clip: Big Numbers. According to Finch, “the average posted green fee among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses climbed by $11, to $204, over the past two years. Eleven of them list fees of $350 and up.”

The Classic at Madden’s par 4 8th hole

That’s a lot of dough and you’d expect that the best of the best courses in America would command price tags like that for a stroll around their property. Yet, compare that with Minnesota’s top 2 public facilities on the list: The Quarry at Giants Ridge (20) and The Classic at Madden’s (67). You can play The Classic on the weekend for a listed rate of $119 which includes a cart. Better yet, play a higher ranked course at Giants Ridge and pay $89 which also includes a cart! Generally speaking, there isn’t a public golf course in the state that comes anywhere close to the $204 that Mr. Finch speaks about in his piece.

Is Minnesota golf splendid? Darn right it is. Is it affordable? Compared to the top golf courses in the country not only is it affordable, it’s an incredible value!





Explore Minnesota Golf Alliance is a golf industry group that pools resources to promote Minnesota as a golf tourism destination. The member courses are a collection of “Must Play” courses in Minnesota and geographically well distributed across the state. For more information on Minnesota golf tourism, visit our website at www.exploreminnesotagolf.com.

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