A Local’s Guide to Scottsdale Golf

Public courses

• Troon North Golf Club: An absolute Scottsdale classic. Troon North’s Monument and Pinnacle courses wind through desert terrain, with dramatic elevation changes and boulder-studded views. It’s the kind of golf that feels like a luxury adventure: challenging, scenic, and perfectly maintained. Early morning tee times here are magic. Sunset on the 18th green is my favorite spot.

• Grayhawk Golf Club: Home to the NCAA Championships and a staple in Scottsdale’s golf scene, Grayhawk features two solid courses—Raptor and Talon—each with unique layouts and championship-level challenge. The clubhouse has great energy, and it’s one of those places where you linger for lunch at Isabella’s after the round.

• Quintero Golf Club: Tucked into the high desert outside Phoenix, Quintero is a course for serious players. Designed by Rees Jones, it’s known for pure, pristine golf—rolling fairways, fast greens, and jaw-dropping desert mountain views in every direction. It’s a bit of a drive from Scottsdale, but absolutely worth it. Bring your A-game, your camera, and maybe an extra sleeve of balls. This one is one of the absolute best in the state!

• Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills: This is Scottsdale golf reimagined. Think night golf, music, and a seriously fun vibe. Grass Clippings is the first fully lit 18-hole course in the UUS and it’s giving golf a youthful, cool energy. It’s great for casual rounds, groups, or even date nights. You’ll come for the glow and stay for the vibe. Grass Clippings has set the scene for the Grass League Open and Championship, where teams like Good Good Golf and Tampa Bay Swamp Dawgs play and bring their alligator mascot—then host concerts. It’s perfect for a night out of golf!

Budget golf

• Starfire Golf Club: A solid local favorite with friendly vibes and approachable pricing, Starfire is one of my top choices when I want a casual round without sacrificing scenery. Originally designed by Arnold Palmer, it’s been refreshed over the years but still keeps that laid-back, neighborhood feel. It’s not overly difficult, which makes it perfect for a relaxed day with friends—or a great starter course for newer players.

• Scottsdale Silverado Golf Club: Silverado is my definition of “budget golf that doesn’t feel budget.” It’s super accessible—both location and price—but still delivers a true Scottsdale experience. The course is walkable, fun to play, and has just enough challenge to keep things interesting. Plus, the views of Camelback Mountain and the canal trail make it a hidden gem for locals in the know. It has a great pace of play and a super welcoming crew.

Resort courses

• The Westin Kierland Golf Club: Desert golf with a Scottish twist. Kierland’s 27 holes are designed for playability and fun, with rolling fairways, dramatic bunkering, and even bagpipes at sunset. You can even ride a GolfBoard or golf bike here. If I want to play where my ball always ends up in the fairway, this is where I’m going.

• The Phoenician Golf Club: Refined and scenic, just like the resort itself. The Phoenician course was redesigned for a modern, more walkable experience and plays right up against Camelback Mountain. It’s elegant, beautifully landscaped, and great for a more relaxed round with top-tier service. This is also a great place for lessons.

Private invite-only clubs

• Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club: More than a course—it’s a destination. Wickenburg Ranch offers 18 holes of high-desert beauty on the Big Wick, plus the award-winning Li’l Wick, a laid-back nine-hole course complete with music, lights, and a bar on the loop. It’s golf with soul. Stay for a meal at the clubhouse and enjoy a slower pace, welcoming vibe, and some of the best-kept fairways in the state.

• Silverleaf Club: Silverleaf is the crown jewel of North Scottsdale’s ultra-private golf scene. Nestled in the McDowell Mountains, this Tom Weiskopf–designed course flows through the canyon and desert with a seamless blend of challenge and luxury. The course is pristine, the service is next-level, and the experience—if you get the invite—is unforgettable. It’s the kind of golf day that makes you feel like you’ve arrived.

• Isabella’s Kitchen: This place just feels like Scottsdale to me. Perched above the greens at Grayhawk, Isabella has the best patio for golden hour drinks and sunset views. The vibe is casual but upscale, and their bruschetta board and sangria are always on repeat for me. If you’re visiting with kids, the patio and lawn are ideal for a chill vibe after your round at Grayhawk. Reservations aren’t mandatory but are recommended, especially during the high season.

• The Living Room (DC Ranch): This is my cozy corner when I want something easy, local, and still a little lively. The wine list is great, the food is solid, and the staff makes it feel like a neighborhood favorite. I love it for happy hour or a chill weekend night with friends. It’s low-key in the best way—another after-round favorite!

• Culinary Dropout: Culinary Dropout never misses. It’s edgy, fun, and the food hits every time—especially the pretzel bites and cheese fondue. Whether I’m with friends or hosting out-of-towners, this is my go-to for good food, live music, and easy energy. Plus, the patio scene is always buzzing.

• Thea: If you’re staying at The Global Ambassador, Thea is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve been transported somewhere chic and coastal. The decor is stunning, the cocktails are strong, and the Mediterranean-inspired menu is full of flavor.

• Mastro’s City Hall: When I want to go full-on upscale Scottsdale, Mastro’s is it. The food is next-level. Do yourself a favor and get the Wagyu, then the butter cake for dessert. The service is top-tier, and the whole place has this old-school luxury vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s great for celebrating something—or just making a Wednesday feel like a Friday.

• Maple & Ash (Old Town): Maple & Ash is a whole experience. Luxe, sexy, and unapologetically bold—this is where you go when you want to make a night of it. From the “I Don’t Give a F*@k” tasting menu to the moody lighting and bumping soundtrack, everything here is extra in the best way.

• Boondocks Patio & Grill (Old Town): For a more laid-back but still high-energy night out, Boondocks is a solid choice. It’s got games, live music, and a huge patio that makes it feel like a backyard party. Come as you are, grab a drink, and settle in—it’s always a good time.

• Uchi Scottsdale: Uchi is where I go when I want something elevated, creative, and unforgettable. It’s modern Japanese with a Texas twist, and every dish feels like art. The vibe is sleek and sophisticated, but never stuffy. I always recommend doing the chef’s tasting—it’s the best way to experience the full range of flavors.