ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Cedar Rapids Country Club is the only Donald Ross course in Iowa.
About
Cedar Rapids Country Club is Iowa’s only Donald Ross original, set on a rolling expanse near Indian Creek. Established in 1904, the club showcases Ross's signature routing on an engaging mix of hills and lowland, restored by Ron Prichard. The course is known for creatively contoured Bentgrass greens, diverse challenges, and a walkable layout that rewards precise play while offering pleasant views.
Caddie Tip
Play conservative off the tee, favoring position over distance, as approach angles matter greatly to the complex greens. Stay below the hole when possible, and take time reading putts—subtle breaks and fast Bentgrass surfaces can catch out even seasoned players. The front nine climbs more than it appears, so pace yourself physically and mentally.
The Main Challenge
Cedar Rapids Country Club tests golfers most severely with its sloping, fast greens. Missing in the wrong spot leaves brutal recoveries and tough up-and-downs. The hilly stretch on the front nine, paired with the ever-present creek on the back, forces players to execute all 14 clubs with precision and respect for Ross’s classic features.
The Good
Donald Ross’s green complexes are the star at Cedar Rapids, admired for their subtlety, movement, and variety—each offering multiple fun recovery options and demanding excellent approach play. The course’s restoration recaptured classic design, yielding a layout that combines natural beauty, excellent conditioning, and strategic intrigue in every round.
The Not So Good
Some golfers have noted that, while the front nine is walkable, the uphill climbs can be taxing, especially in warmer months. Others occasionally mention that specific tee shot sightlines could be improved by continued tree management, especially following tree losses from past windstorms.
Signature Hole:
#
9
The par 5 9th hole is a dramatic uphill challenge that begins at the low point of the property, rising sharply toward the clubhouse. Players face a blind second shot over a crest, with a punchbowl green shaped to gather well-struck approaches. Deep bunkers and imaginative contours make it a thrilling highlight requiring both strategy and nerve.
Clubhouse
The elegant clubhouse features full locker rooms, a formal dining area, grille, and private event space. Additional amenities include a well-stocked pro shop, fitness center, outdoor pool, and tennis courts. Members enjoy attentive service and an atmosphere tailored for both socializing and relaxation.
Practice Facilities
The club offers a full driving range with target greens, a short game area, and a putting green. Practice facilities are kept in excellent shape, matching conditions on the main course, and members benefit from private lesson options and spacious practice zones.
Dress Code:
Strict
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.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
