Which golf courses near Des Moines, IA offer the best fit for your next round, practice session, or private-club experience? This 2026 guide compares 10 highly rated options in and around the metro, using available review ratings, facilities, location, and practical golfer considerations. From indoor golf in downtown Des Moines to public courses in West Des Moines and Grimes, these Golf Courses Des Moines IA choices cover a range of playing styles and budgets.
1. Back Nine Golf | Des Moines – Downtown
Located at 1905 Ingersoll Ave, Back Nine Golf is a convenient indoor option for golfers who want to practice or play regardless of Iowa weather. Its facilities include an indoor golf course, golf club, and golf driving range. The downtown location is especially useful for after-work practice, offseason training, or a casual golf experience without committing to a full outdoor round. It holds a 4.9 rating from 13 reviews.
Phone: (515) 377-0727
Pros:
- Indoor golf provides a weather-independent option.
- Includes golf club and driving range services.
- Convenient central Des Moines location.
- Excellent 4.9 rating.
Cons:
- Indoor facilities may not replace the experience of a full outdoor course.
- Smaller review volume than several public courses.
2. Woodland Hills Golf Course
Woodland Hills Golf Course, at 620 NE 66th Ave, is a public golf course in northern Des Moines. With a 4.8 rating from 1,578 reviews, it is one of the most established and consistently reviewed public Golf Courses Des Moines IA golfers can consider. The facility is focused on outdoor golf and is suitable for players seeking a traditional public-course setting.
Phone: (515) 289-1326
Pros:
- Public access makes it practical for many golfers.
- Strong 4.8 rating across a large review base.
- Convenient option for northern Des Moines.
- Dedicated golf course facility.
Cons:
- Outdoor play is affected by seasonal weather.
- Tee times and availability may vary during busy periods.
3. Glen Oaks Country Club Iowa
Glen Oaks Country Club is located at 1401 Glen Oaks Dr in West Des Moines. As a private country club, it offers a more membership-oriented golf environment than a typical municipal or public course. Its 4.7 rating from 324 reviews reflects a strong reputation among visitors and members. Golfers should contact the club directly to confirm access, membership requirements, and available amenities.
Phone: (515) 221-9000
Pros:
- Private-club setting in West Des Moines.
- High 4.7 rating.
- Suitable for golfers seeking a more exclusive experience.
- Established country club facility.
Cons:
- Access may be limited to members and eligible guests.
- Private-club costs and policies may not suit every golfer.
4. Des Moines Golf and Country Club
Des Moines Golf and Country Club is at 1600 Jordan Creek Pkwy in West Des Moines. This country club is a notable choice for golfers searching for a private facility near Des Moines. It has a 4.6 rating from 248 reviews. Before planning a visit, contact the club regarding membership, guest policies, course availability, and current facilities.
Phone: (515) 440-7500
Pros:
- Convenient West Des Moines location.
- Private country club atmosphere.
- Strong 4.6 rating.
- Well suited to members and invited guests.
Cons:
- Not generally structured like an open public golf course.
- Membership or guest access may be required.
5. Waveland Golf Course
Waveland Golf Course, at 4908 University Ave, is a Des Moines golf facility that combines a golf course with event venue and recreation center services. Its location makes it accessible for golfers in central and western parts of the city. With a 4.5 rating from 435 reviews, Waveland is a well-reviewed choice for public golf and community recreation.
Phone: (515) 248-6302
Pros:
- Offers golf, event venue, and recreation center services.
- Accessible Des Moines location.
- Solid 4.5 rating from 435 reviews.
- Versatile option for golf and group activities.
Cons:
- Event activity may affect availability at times.
- Weather can limit outdoor play.
6. Wakonda Club
Wakonda Club is a private country club at 3915 Fleur Dr in Des Moines. Its 4.5 rating from 280 reviews indicates a positive overall reputation. Golfers looking for a private club near the city may find its location convenient, but prospective visitors should call ahead to learn about membership options, guest access, and current amenities.
Phone: (515) 285-4962
Pros:
- Established private-club option in Des Moines.
- Convenient Fleur Drive location.
- Positive 4.5 rating.
- Designed for a membership-based golf experience.
Cons:
- Public access may be restricted.
- Membership requirements and fees can apply.
7. Bright Grandview Golf Course
Bright Grandview Golf Course is located at 2401 E 29th St in Des Moines. This dedicated golf course has a 4.3 rating from 210 reviews and offers a straightforward option for golfers on the city’s east side. It is worth considering for local players who want an accessible outdoor course without traveling far from Des Moines.
Phone: (515) 248-6301
Pros:
- Convenient east Des Moines location.
- Dedicated golf course facility.
- Good 4.3 rating.
- Practical choice for local outdoor play.
Cons:
- Fewer reviews than some of the metro’s most-reviewed courses.
- Outdoor availability depends on weather and season.
8. A.H. Blank Golf Course
A.H. Blank Golf Course is at 808 County Line Rd in Des Moines. With a 4.2 rating from 432 reviews, it is another established outdoor golf option for players searching the south side of the metro. The facility is focused on golf, making it suitable for everyday rounds and local recreation.
Phone: (515) 248-6300
Pros:
- South Des Moines location.
- Dedicated golf course facility.
- 432 reviews provide a useful reputation sample.
- Suitable for local outdoor golfers.
Cons:
- Rating is slightly below several other listed courses.
- Seasonal weather may affect play.
9. Willow Creek Golf Course
Willow Creek Golf Course is located at 140 SE Willow Creek Dr in West Des Moines. It has a 4.0 rating from 281 reviews and provides another accessible outdoor golf option near Des Moines. Its West Des Moines location works well for golfers living or working in the western metro area.
Phone: (515) 285-4558
Pros:
- Convenient West Des Moines location.
- Dedicated golf course facility.
- Established review history with 281 reviews.
- Useful option for western-metro golfers.
Cons:
- 4.0 rating is more moderate than the area’s highest-rated courses.
- Outdoor play is seasonal.
10. Beaver Creek Golf Club
Beaver Creek Golf Club is at 11200 NW Towner Dr in Grimes, approximately north of Des Moines. With a 3.9 rating from 282 reviews, it offers an additional metro-area choice for golfers willing to drive outside the city. The facility is centered on outdoor golf and may appeal to players in Grimes and northwest suburbs.
Phone: (515) 986-3221
Pros:
- Convenient for Grimes and northwest metro residents.
- Dedicated golf club facility.
- 282 reviews offer substantial local feedback.
- Expands the search beyond central Des Moines.
Cons:
- Located farther from central Des Moines.
- Lowest rating among the courses in this guide.
When choosing among Golf Courses Des Moines IA, compare location, public or private access, indoor versus outdoor facilities, current ratings, and tee-time policies. Calling ahead is the best way to confirm availability, seasonal schedules, membership rules, and event-related closures for 2026.
