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Scottsdale Named America's Best Golf City

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 2/scottsdale-named-america-s-best-golf-city.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 11:04 GMT by Travel + Leisure

Scottsdale Reigns Supreme: Why Arizona Claims the Title of America’s Best Golf City

Scottsdale, Arizona has officially claimed the crown as the top golf destination in the United States, according to a recent ranking by Travel + Leisure. The city edged out perennial favorites like Pebble Beach and Myrtle Beach, solidifying its position as a premier golfing mecca. But what exactly makes Scottsdale worthy of this prestigious title? It's more than just sunshine and cacti; it’s a complex blend of world-class courses, luxurious amenities, vibrant culture, and an overall commitment to the golfer experience.

The Travel + Leisure ranking, based on reader votes (a crucial element in their methodology), highlights Scottsdale’s consistent appeal and evolution as a golf destination. While other contenders boast impressive histories or dramatic coastal scenery, Scottsdale offers something uniquely compelling: a consistently high-quality golfing experience coupled with a sophisticated lifestyle. The article emphasizes that the win isn't just about the courses themselves; it's about the entire package – from accommodations to dining to post-round relaxation.

A Course for Every Skill Level (and Budget)

Scottsdale’s dominance in golf stems largely from its incredible variety of courses. The region boasts over 300 courses, catering to every skill level and budget. The article specifically mentions the iconic TPC Scottsdale, home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open – a PGA Tour event that draws massive crowds and generates significant buzz for the city's golfing reputation. This tournament alone contributes significantly to Scottsdale’s visibility and allure. The course itself is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning desert scenery.

Beyond TPC Scottsdale, the article points to other notable courses like Troon North Golf Club (known for its dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views), Grayhawk Golf Club (offering two distinct 18-hole layouts), and We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (a tribal course celebrated for its pristine conditions and challenging design). The sheer density of high-quality options is a key differentiator. You can easily spend weeks exploring Scottsdale’s golfing landscape without repeating a single round.

As the linked article "Scottsdale's Best Golf Courses" details, many courses are designed by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye, ensuring a challenging and aesthetically pleasing experience for even the most discerning golfer. The desert terrain itself presents unique design challenges, resulting in courses that seamlessly blend with the natural environment – a far cry from the manicured lawns often found elsewhere.

Beyond the Fairway: Scottsdale's Lifestyle Appeal

However, Scottsdale’s appeal extends far beyond its golf courses. The city has cultivated a reputation as a luxury destination, attracting affluent travelers seeking more than just a round of golf. The article highlights the abundance of high-end resorts and hotels, many offering golf packages that include tee times, spa treatments, and fine dining experiences. These aren't your average hotel stays; they are immersive escapes designed to pamper and indulge.

Old Town Scottsdale, mentioned in several linked articles about the area’s attractions, is a vibrant hub of art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. It provides a welcome contrast to the tranquility of the golf courses, offering visitors a chance to experience Scottsdale's cultural side. The culinary scene has also blossomed, with numerous award-winning restaurants catering to diverse tastes. From upscale steakhouses to casual Southwestern cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

The climate is another significant draw. Scottsdale enjoys abundant sunshine and mild temperatures throughout much of the year, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts seeking respite from colder climates. While summer months can be intensely hot, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer near-perfect golfing conditions.

Competition & Future Challenges

While Scottsdale’s victory is significant, the article acknowledges that competition remains fierce. Pebble Beach, with its iconic coastline and historical significance, continues to hold a strong appeal for many golfers. Myrtle Beach, known for its affordability and sheer volume of courses, also maintains a loyal following. The Travel + Leisure methodology, relying heavily on reader votes, means that popularity can fluctuate year to year.

Looking ahead, Scottsdale faces challenges related to water conservation. The desert environment necessitates careful management of resources, and the city is actively implementing strategies to reduce water usage on golf courses. This includes investing in drought-resistant landscaping and utilizing advanced irrigation techniques. Maintaining the pristine condition of the courses while addressing environmental concerns will be crucial for preserving Scottsdale’s reputation as a premier golfing destination.

Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Title

Ultimately, Scottsdale's claim to being America’s best golf city is well-deserved. It represents more than just exceptional golf; it embodies a commitment to providing an unparalleled experience that caters to the discerning golfer and traveler alike. The combination of world-class courses, luxurious amenities, vibrant culture, and favorable climate creates a truly irresistible package – one that has clearly resonated with Travel + Leisure readers and solidified Scottsdale’s position at the top of the golfing hierarchy. The city's continued investment in its golf infrastructure and overall appeal suggests that it will remain a dominant force in the American golf landscape for years to come.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Travel + Leisure piece!