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Course Report
St. Louis Country Club hosted the 1947 U.S. Open, one of the few Macdonald designs to have held a major championship, and also features five classic Macdonald/Raynor template par-3s.
About
St. Louis Country Club, designed by Charles B. Macdonald and opened in 1914, is one of the oldest and most prestigious private clubs in the United States. Featuring a parkland-style layout with classic Macdonald template holes and immaculate Bentgrass playing surfaces, it has hosted several national championships and is acclaimed for both architectural pedigree and refined atmosphere.
Caddie Tip
Course management is key at SLCC. Pay special attention to approach shots, as greens present sharp slopes and strategic bunkering. Play for the safe side when in doubt, particularly on par 3s, and respect the pace and undulation of the classic putting surfaces.
The Main Challenge
The defense of the course centers on small, artfully contoured greens and the placement of classic bunkers. Approach shots require accuracy, and being above the hole can result in perilous putts. The par 3s, particularly the second, present both length and intricate green complexes.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the timeless design and strategic variety of the Macdonald layout, calling it a masterclass in classic course architecture. The serene, tree-lined parkland setting and hospitality make for a refined, memorable member experience that stands out even among elite private clubs.
The Not So Good
Occasional feedback centers on the limited accessibility for non-members and the strictness of club policies. During summer, heat stress can affect turf in isolated spots, and traditionalists sometimes wish for fewer alterations to classic features during renovations.
Signature Hole:
#
2
The par-3 second hole, known as the Double Plateau, plays 220 yards uphill and features a dramatic Biarritz green. Club selection is demanding due to the elevation and the deep swale dividing the green’s plateaus, offering a stern test early in the round and reflecting classic Macdonald design elements at their best.
Clubhouse
The stately clubhouse offers fine dining, banquet space, multiple lounges, locker rooms, and event facilities. Additional amenities include tennis courts, swimming pool, and a modern fitness center, all presented with traditional service and elegance.
Practice Facilities
Members enjoy a comprehensive practice range, short game area, and putting greens that reflect the care and standards of the course proper. Instructional programs are available, and facilities support player development at all levels.
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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