With autumn leaves falling all around us, the ticking clock that signals the end of golf season is fast approaching. Though it doesn’t often snow in Vancouver, the winter is usually accompanied by dreary rain, motivating people to stay indoors most of the time. If you’re looking to make the most of the remaining sun and crisp air, there are plenty of options within the city limits for golfers. If you’ve got a free weekend coming up, grab your friends and check out one of these courses, or head to a driving range to hone your game. And if you’re feeling more committed, there are even a couple of private courses nearby for those who are more serious about golf. Vancouver has options for people of all skill levels!
Driving Ranges
Looking for a place to practice your swing without the added pressure of chasing your ball down afterward? Surprisingly, Vancouver offers two small driving ranges within the city limits! Vanco Golf Range is a small facility, but it boasts a practice area that is covered and offers putting greens to practice your short game. The pro shop has a wide variety of golf supplies and even provides club fitting and lessons from PGA professional Jack Young. The biggest thing this driving range has going for it is its customer service. The staff work hard to make everyone feel at home, whether you’re new to the game of golf or a seasoned veteran.
On the north end of Vancouver lies Westside Golf Range. Westside is also a small facility, but offers great prices, often giving out discounts on specific weekends. They also ran a juniors camp over the summer, teaching kids the basics of golfing. Stop by to hit a few balls!
![westside golf in vancouver wa](https://cdn.explorewashingtonstate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/04100914/westside-Golf-1024x606.jpg)
Private Courses
If you’re often in Vancouver or you live nearby, it might be worth joining one of the private clubs in the area for access to their courses. Club Green Meadows boasts not only an 18-hole course, but also a recreational facility with swimming, tennis, and a gym available. Membership gets you access to the indoor driving range as well. This course is well-maintained, and the added amenities are well worth it if you have other members of your family who might be interested in everything the facility has to offer.
Looking for a real premiere golfing experience? The Royal Oaks Country Club might be more your style! Despite being located right next to a major road, this course feels secluded and private – possibly due in part to the fence preventing non-members from entering! Royal Oaks is a great choice if you want to become a part of something long-term, as they care for their course well and offer plenty of events for members.
Public Par 3 Challenges
Vancouver is also home to a few golf courses that offer a more casual experience with a more affordable price range. The Pine Crest Golf Course is one such option, a field of greenery nestled in among a small cul-de-sac and a nearby creek to the north of the city. Whether you’re a beginner or practicing for a spot on the PGA tour, this course offers enough challenge for everyone. You can schedule a tee time online for less than $15 a person, and enjoy a fun round of golf with family and friends!
Just a bit further on the edge of Vancouver Lake is the Lakeview Par 3. This par 3 challenge cleverly winds its way around, using the most of its space to create 18 holes out of 9. Though it can be a bit confusing when you start out, the course boasts a relaxing experience, passing by the front of Vancouver Lake and offering some excellent views. Since there are no set tee times, it can be fairly busy if you come on a weekend. If you’re looking to work on your short game, you should definitely give this par 3 a try.
![golf ball by Catalin Munteanu](https://cdn.explorewashingtonstate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/04100900/golf-ball-1024x576.jpg)
Featured image: Catalin Munteanu. Additional photos by the author.
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