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Course Report
The club is the home club of Bobby Jones, but its modern Highlands course is famed for hosting the 1976 U.S. Open and two PGA Championships.
About
The Highlands Course at Atlanta Athletic Club, redesigned by Rees Jones, is a renowned private parkland layout that has hosted major championships including the 1976 U.S. Open and two PGA Championships. Known for its narrow fairways, challenging bunkering and tour-level conditioning, Highlands combines holes originally designed by Robert Trent Jones and Joe Finger.
Caddie Tip
Keep your tee shots in play—narrow, tree-lined fairways and strategic bunkers penalize any loose drives. Playing to the fat side of the greens is wise, as up-and-downs from the deep rough and bunkers are tough. Approach the undulating greens with a premium on distance control.
The Main Challenge
The Highlands Course is a stern test from start to finish, with tight landing areas, deep bunkers, thick Bermuda rough, and difficult, undulating greens. The championship setup requires precision and thought on every shot, and the closing holes, especially 16–18, are among the toughest finishing stretches in golf.
The Good
Golfers rave about the major championship pedigree and demanding, strategic layout that tests every club in the bag. The pristine conditioning, immaculate greens, and challenging finishing stretch provide a world-class, memorable experience that stands out even among elite private clubs.
The Not So Good
Some members and guests mention that the relentless difficulty and penal rough can be unforgiving, taking away from the fun for higher-handicap players. The prestige and demand of the course also mean limited accessibility and little flexibility for casual rounds.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th at Highlands is a demanding par 4 finishing hole, famous for deciding major championships. With water guarding the left and a sloping green, a precise tee shot and approach are critical. The dramatic setting, strategic challenge, and pressure-packed history make it the course’s signature moment.
Clubhouse
The stately clubhouse offers upscale dining, a historic Bobby Jones memorabilia display, locker rooms, banquet spaces, fitness and aquatics centers, and tennis. Member services are of the highest standard, reflecting the club’s national reputation.
Practice Facilities
Extensive practice amenities include a large driving range, short game area, putting greens, and indoor performance center. First-rate instruction is available, along with advanced turf conditions that closely mirror the championship course.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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