Warren
Nothing screams class like a round at Warren. The “treat yo’self” of the Notre Dame student golfer experience, Warren has long felt just out of reach for us mere muggles hoping to squeeze in a Thursday afternoon nine. But that all changed with the closing of the Burke. Warren is now the closest option to campus for the student body and offers great student deals during the week. You can walk 18 for just 26 bucks in the spring and fall. The occasionally tightening fairways offer a great challenge off the tee, and the rolling back nine is absolutely gorgeous.
The Studebaker
The Studebaker’s nine-hole course is tucked just south of downtown South Bend and is perfect for any golfer who tells their friends they usually shoot in the 80s but is actually a 27 handicap. Dead straight, flat greens and open spaces, it is a great spot to warm up for the season or take out any of your new golfer friends. It is ten bucks for nine and playing barefoot with a six-pack is totally on the table.
Blackthorn
Blackthorn Golf Club is South Bend’s top-rated course. Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, the course winds through wetlands, tall prairie grass, and plenty of bunkers to keep you honest. The fairways are wide, the greens roll true, and there’s a great practice area if your short game needs a tune-up. If you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned player, Blackthorn offers a fun, strategic round in a scenic setting.
Burke
People say that the Burke is closed. I say that glow-in-the-dark golf balls and a pair of night vision goggles can be found on Amazon for the usual season pass cost of one hundred dollars. There is nothing stopping you and the boys from getting out there late at night and “accidentally” sending balls screaming towards Duncan Hall.
Juday Creek
If you thought the California wildfires were bad, you should go check out what happened to the clubhouse over at Juday Creek. It is still totally playable, though, and offers a nice round for anyone who isn’t afraid of a well-placed water hazard or the off chance that lightning might strike the same spot twice.
The 87 Golf Simulator
Does your significant other, former dormmate, or anyone you barely know live in the 87? In that case, you probably already have access codes to the entire complex. Do yourself a favor and check out their golf simulator, which is totally free and located conveniently next to the gym, which is also free. They have nitro cold brew coffee on tap just downstairs (also free) and Bethpage Black ready to play. It’s all a great deal for just zero dollars.