Imagine this: a long weekend with the boys, packed with epic drives down the fairway, questionable decisions on the 19th hole, and a sea of scarlet and gray as far as the eye can see. An Ohio Stadium Golf Trip is the perfect getaway for sports and golf enthusiasts alike.
That’s right—it’s time for the ultimate guys’ golf trip where we tee off at some of the best courses near Ohio Stadium and wrap things up by cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes. You and your crew will be crushing it on the greens by day, then diving headfirst into the roar of the ‘Shoe at night, all while making memories (and maybe a few regrettable decisions) that will be talked about for years.
Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a die-hard Buckeyes fan, or just in it for the camaraderie and cold beers, this trip has all the ingredients for an unforgettable bro-tastic adventure.
Champions Golf Course
Alright, so first up we’ve got Champions. This place has been around since ’48. It’s not super long, just over 6,500 yards, but don’t let that fool you. It’s all about precision. The fairways are rolling, the greens are tricky as hell, and those old trees have seen some shit.
Check out the second hole – it’s this little par-3, only 132 yards, but it’ll mess with your head. Narrow green, bunkers on both sides. Classic risk-reward stuff.
The greens? Oh boy. They’re fast and firm. You’ll feel like a pro if you sink a long one, but they can make you look like a fool too.
Best part? It’s public, but feels high-end. Staff’s cool, always good for some tips. Trust me, by the 18th hole, you’ll be ready for your next round. Just remember: “Fairways and greens, buddy. Fairways and greens.”
Darby Creek
Alright, check this out – Darby Creek. It’s like two courses in one. Front nine’s called “Links” – feels like you’re in Scotland. Wide open, windy as hell sometimes. Gotta keep that ball low or it’ll end up in the next county.
Back nine’s “Woods” – total 180. Trees everywhere, gotta be dead-on with your drives. Keeps you on your toes, you know?
The 14th’s a beast – par 5 where you might go for it in two if you’re feeling lucky. And watch out for that 2nd hole – it’s a sneaky little par 3 that’ll bite you if you’re not careful.
Course is always in great shape. Greens are slick, fairways are money. And get this – there’s an old cemetery from the 1800s somewhere on the property. Pretty wild, right? See if you can find it!
Just bring your A-game… and maybe some extra balls for that front nine. You might need ’em.
Golf Club of Dublin
On to the next course. Golf Club of Dublin – this place is wild. It’s like they picked up a chunk of Ireland and dropped it in Ohio.
It’s a links course, man. Fescue grass, stone walls, those nasty sod-faced bunkers. Looks awesome, but it’ll kick your ass if you’re not careful.
It’s long – over 7,000 yards from the tips. Fairways are wide, but don’t get cocky. The greens are huge and fast as hell. I’ve had some three-putts that still give me nightmares.
Water’s in play on almost every hole. And the wind? Forget about it. You might be hitting three clubs more or less than usual, depending on the day.
Check out the 8th hole – it’s a par-3 with water on one side, bunkers on the other. Pucker up, buttercup.
Oh, and the carts have GPS. Trust me, you’ll need it. This place plays tricks on your eyes.
It’s a beast, but man, it’s fun. Just bring your A-game… and maybe a few extra balls. You might need ’em.
Blacklick Woods Metro Golf Club
Alright, so next up we’ve got Blacklick Woods. This place is no joke. It’s tucked away in the forest, real peaceful vibe, but don’t let that fool you.
The main course is a beast – over 6,800 yards and they say it’s one of the toughest public tracks in Columbus. Trees everywhere, so you better hit it straight or you’re in for a long day.
The greens? They’re like fortresses, man. Miss ’em and you’ll be scrambling your ass off. But they roll nice, gotta give ’em that.
Check out the 9th – it’s this nasty little par-3 with water in front and bunkers in back. Pucker factor is through the roof.
They’ve got a solid practice area too, if you need to dial it in or loosen up before your round. And get this – it’s county-owned, so it won’t break the bank.
Oh, and if you play in the fall, it’s drop-dead gorgeous. Just don’t get distracted by the leaves and forget to hit the fairway, alright?
Raymond Memorial Golf Course
Last stop: Raymond Memorial. This place is old school, man. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. back in ’54, but don’t think it’s a pushover.
It’s long – almost 6,900 yards from the tips. The greens are huge and sloped, so if you’re above the hole, good luck with that putt.
Here’s the coolest part: they’ve got these twin par-3s. Two holes side by side, different tees, fairways, greens – the whole deal. It’s pretty wild.
Bunkers everywhere, protecting the fronts of all the greens. Gotta think about your shots or you’ll be in the sand all day.
Course is always in great shape. Bent grass greens, nice fairways. And get this – it’s only 50 bucks on weekends with a cart. Can’t beat that for a Jones course.
Just remember, take an extra club on your approaches. Those raised greens can make you look stupid if you come up short.
It’s a classic, man. Challenging but fair. You’ll love it.
Pre/Post Game Bars
Lets not forget about getting prepared for game day! Here is a list of some of the best bars to hit near the stadium before and after the big game!
Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar
Located just steps from Ohio Stadium, the Varsity Club is an iconic spot for Ohio State football fans. Established in 1959, this old-school sports bar features:
- TVs for watching the game
- Patio seating
- Pub-style food
- Buckets of beer perfect for tailgating
Its proximity to the stadium and nostalgic atmosphere make it extremely popular, especially among alumni.
Little Bar
Little Bar is another great option less than a mile from Ohio Stadium. Some highlights include:
- A massive 150-foot Jumbotron outside for watching the game
- 10 TVs inside
- 65-inch TV on the patio
- Game day drink specials like $7-8 White Claws
It’s known for hosting lively indoor and outdoor game day parties.
Out-R-Inn
This legendary campus bar has been an Ohio State staple since the 1960s. Features include:
- Packed atmosphere for major sporting events
- Dive bar feel
- Outdoor patio
- TVs both inside and outside
Out-R-Inn is considered a must-visit spot just for the electric game day atmosphere.
The O on Lane
Located just a 5-minute walk from the stadium, The O on Lane offers:
- Live music on game days
- Family-owned and operated
- Food and drinks
- Convenient location for pre-gaming
Short North Pint House
While a bit further from campus in the Short North area, this bar is great for spending the whole day:
- Saturday/Sunday brunch from 11am-3pm
- Extensive beer and drink menu
- Multiple TVs throughout
- Beer garden
Its all-day offerings make it perfect for fans wanting to make a full day out of the game day experience.
Remember to arrive early to these popular spots on game days, as they tend to fill up quickly with enthusiastic Buckeye fans. Go Bucks!
There you have it – five killer courses and a Buckeyes game to cap it all off. We’re talking 90 holes of golf where you’ll curse your driver, question your life choices, and probably lose a few balls (and maybe your dignity) along the way. But hey, that’s what makes it fun, right?
By the time we roll into Ohio Stadium, we’ll either be golfing gods or need serious therapy. Either way, we’ll be ready to drown our sorrows or celebrate our victories in a sea of scarlet and gray.
Just remember, what happens on the golf trip stays on the golf trip… unless it’s a hole-in-one, then we’re telling everyone and their mother. So pack your clubs, your lucky buckeye, and maybe some Band-Aids for those blisters. It’s gonna be one hell of a ride, buddy. See you on the first tee!