Golf enthusiasts in Clive, Iowa, are in luck. While the Midwest is known for its unpredictable weather, Clive offers a variety of year-round golfing opportunities to keep your game sharp no matter the season. Whether you enjoy the sun-soaked greens of summer, the crisp air of fall, or even indoor golfing during the colder months, Clive provides plenty of options to tee off all year. In this article, we’ll explore the best golf courses, driving ranges, and indoor facilities near Clive that ensure you never have to put your clubs away for long.
Golfing in the Spring and Summer: Ideal for Outdoor Play
Clive transforms into a golfer’s paradise when spring and summer roll around. The lush green fairways, scenic views, and favorable weather conditions make it the perfect time for outdoor play. The city and surrounding areas boast several well-maintained golf courses where beginners and seasoned golfers can enjoy the game.
The Legacy Golf Club
Located in the heart of nearby Norwalk, The Legacy Golf Club is one of the premier golfing destinations in the Clive area. The course offers a challenging layout with scenic views of the countryside. It features 18 holes with a mix of water hazards and tree-lined fairways that test skill and beauty. The Legacy Golf Club is open year-round, but it’s particularly popular during the warmer months when the outdoor conditions are ideal for a round of golf.
Glen Oaks Country Club
Glen Oaks Country Club is another gem in the Clive area, known for its pristine greens and excellent amenities. This private club offers a championship golf course designed by the famous architect Tom Fazio. With its challenging holes and picturesque views, it attracts both local golfers and visitors. If you’re looking for a more upscale golfing experience near Clive, Glen Oaks provides a fantastic option with various membership plans and seasonal events.
Des Moines Golf and Country Club
Just a short drive from Clive, the Des Moines Golf and Country Club is one of Iowa’s most prestigious golf courses. This private club has two 18-hole courses—one designed by renowned architect Pete Dye—making it an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels. The expansive grounds feature well-kept fairways, sand traps, and water hazards that will keep you engaged throughout your round. The Des Moines Golf and Country Club is a year-round facility, offering excellent conditions in spring and summer.
Fall Golf: Perfect Time for a Scenic Round
Fall is an excellent time to hit the links in Clive when the weather cools down. The temperatures are comfortable, and the autumn colors add a stunning backdrop to your game. During this season, you can enjoy fantastic golfing conditions, as the courses are often less crowded than during the peak summer months.
The Preserve on Rathbun Lake
A bit farther from Clive, The Preserve on Rathbun Lake offers an exceptional autumn golf experience. This 18-hole championship course is surrounded by the beauty of nature, with wooded areas, water features, and wildlife to enhance the experience. In fall, the foliage creates a breathtaking view while you navigate the course. If you enjoy the challenge of elevation changes, water hazards, and fast greens, The Preserve is a great option to explore in the fall months.
Indian Creek Country Club
In nearby Nevada, Indian Creek Country Club features an 18-hole fun and challenging course. The picturesque layout and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice during the fall. As the leaves turn, Indian Creek becomes a haven for golfers to enjoy the crisp autumn air while playing a round or two with family and friends.
Winter Golfing: Indoor Options to Keep Your Swing Sharp
During the cold Iowa winters, many golfers assume they must wait for the thaw to hit the course again. However, Clive offers several indoor golfing opportunities, ensuring you can stay on top of your game, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Topgolf: A Year-Round Indoor Golf Experience
Topgolf in West Des Moines, just a short drive from Clive, is a fantastic year-round golfing destination that combines technology, entertainment, and the sport you love. Topgolf offers a fun, interactive experience for golfers of all skill levels. It features climate-controlled hitting bays where players can practice their swings while enjoying food and drinks. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, Topgolf’s technology tracks your ball’s distance and accuracy, giving you instant feedback to improve your game.
Topgolf also has a wide range of games and challenges, making it a fun, family-friendly activity. The indoor setting allows year-round golfing, keeping your swing sharp even when the weather outside is less than ideal.
The Golf Room: Perfect for Golf Simulations
If you’re looking for an indoor facility focusing solely on golf, The Golf Room in Des Moines is an excellent option. This facility offers high-tech simulators that allow you to play on some of the world’s most famous courses from the comfort of a climate-controlled room. The golf room will let you play anytime, whether it’s snowing outside or the temperatures dip too low.
This unique indoor experience combines the thrill of playing on renowned courses like Pebble Beach and Augusta National with the ability to track your performance through advanced metrics. It’s the perfect way to stay active during winter while enjoying your favorite sport.
Driving Ranges and Indoor Golf Facilities in Clive
For those who prefer a more traditional indoor golf experience, driving ranges and indoor golf simulators in Clive are great alternatives during the colder months. The Driving Range at the Clive Greenbelt Golf Course is popular for golfers looking to practice their swings. While the course may close in winter, the driving range stays open throughout the season, allowing golfers to fine-tune their skills.
In addition, GolfTec in West Des Moines offers indoor lessons, swing analysis, and simulator play, making it an ideal place to improve your golf game year-round. Their state-of-the-art technology provides precise feedback on your swing and performance, which is perfect for honing your technique.
Golfing All Year in Clive, Iowa
Whether you prefer to enjoy the beautiful outdoors during the spring and summer or you’re looking to stay active during the cold winter months, Clive offers year-round golfing opportunities that cater to all tastes and skill levels. With a variety of courses, driving ranges, and indoor facilities, Clive ensures that golf enthusiasts can continue to enjoy the sport no matter the season.
From the pristine greens of local golf courses to the high-tech simulators and interactive experiences offered by indoor golf facilities, Clive has it all. So, grab your clubs, and get ready to hit the links throughout the year in one of Iowa’s most vibrant communities. Whether working on your swing, practicing at a driving range, or enjoying a round with friends and family, Clive provides the perfect setting for golf enthusiasts at any time of the year.