ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Difficulty
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Course Report
Minnesota Valley retains more of Raynor’s original layout than any of his other Minnesota designs and features replica holes modeled after famous originals.
About
Minnesota Valley Country Club, designed by Seth Raynor in 1924, is a private, classic parkland golf course perched above the Minnesota River Valley in Bloomington. Its 18 holes feature Raynor’s signature template designs, and the property underwent a major restoration in 2018 to improve playability and conditions while honoring historic architectural features.
Caddie Tip
Focus on positioning off the tee to give yourself the best angles to Raynor’s greens, particularly the template holes. Approach shots need to be precise—missing on the wrong side, especially on the Redan or Biarritz, will make getting up and down extremely difficult.
The Main Challenge
The most demanding aspect of Minnesota Valley is negotiating the raised, well-protected greens that demand strategic shotmaking and punishes poor approaches. Tree-lined fairways and tough rough increase premium on accuracy, while signature templates require thoughtful play every round.
The Good
Golfers consistently highlight the imaginative Raynor green complexes and the challenge of classic replica holes. The restoration preserved the course’s strategic charm, variety in hole design, and the overall sense of playing a piece of American golf history.
The Not So Good
After drainage and irrigation improvements, conditions are strong, but some players find occasional wet spots after heavy rain or wish for expanded practice facilities. Tough green surrounds can be punitive for higher handicappers, making approach shots more stressful.
Signature Hole:
#
2
The par 3 2nd hole is a classic Raynor Redan, playing 172 yards with a distinct back-left fallaway green that challenges even accurate tee shots. Out-of-bounds close by demands precision, and strategic bunkering heightens the tension throughout the entire experience.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features dining rooms, event spaces, locker rooms, and a pro shop. The food and beverage service is consistently praised, and the setting is ideal for hosting tournaments, banquets, and member gatherings.
Practice Facilities
Minnesota Valley offers a full grass driving range, short game area, and putting green. The practice facilities are adequate for a private club but not extensive compared to modern resort or tour venues.
Dress Code:
Standard
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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