Ozarks National (No. 1), Buffalo Ridge (No. 2), Branson Hills (No. 3), and LedgeStone (No. 7) earned honors in Golfweek’s Best, an annual compilation of lists that include “Best-In-State.” Additionally, Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge, amenities of Big Cedar Lodge, were honored as “Top 100 Courses You Can Play in America,” ranking nos. 64 and 83, respectively (out of roughly 13,500 U.S. playing venues).
All rankings are in the just-published “Golfweek’s Best” issue, based on evaluations from more than 850 Golfweek course raters who survey more than 3,600 golf courses annually.
“Branson is an exciting destination where there’s something for everyone, including live entertainment theaters, lakes, historic downtown, outdoor adventures, breweries and wineries, museums, and more,” said Lynn Berry, Director of Communications, Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Now that our courses are receiving global recognition and acclaim, we look forward to welcoming more golf travelers to the Missouri Ozarks.”
Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Ozarks National debuted in 2019, when Golf Digest named it the “Best New Public Course” in the country. Buffalo Ridge, a Tom Fazio-Johnny Morris collaboration, winds through beautiful Missouri Ozarks landscape, with the rousing golf holes complemented by the area’s abundant natural beauty.
Branson Hills was authored by Chuck Smith with former U.S. Amateur Champion and PGA TOUR member Bobby Clampett. It provides multiple tees for all player level and it is as strikingly scenic as it is compellingly strategic. LedgeStone is one of Branson Golf’s most popular playing spots, thanks to the creative layout by Tom Clark. It weaves through the undulating terrain and trees to offer a fun, memorable golf experience.
Top of the Rock, Mountain Top and soon to open Payne’s Valley – a Tiger Woods’ golf course architecture firm design –
complete the five Big Cedar Lodge courses. Payne’s Valley is the first public access course designed by Woods and TGR Design; 13 holes are currently available for “Preview Play” with a grand opening slated for this fall.
Thousand Hills (Bob Cupp design), The Pointe, and Holiday Hills complete Branson Golf’s roster of 10 courses, and each has earned appreciation for their playability and value. For more information about Branson Golf, visit www.explorebranson.com/golf
