ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Alex Smith, a former Lac La Belle professional, went on to win the 1906 and 1910 U.S. Opens; the site is among Wisconsin's oldest golf grounds.
About
The Club at Lac La Belle is a historic public course in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, originally established in 1896 and fully reimagined by architect Craig Haltom in 2020. The course stands out for its bold green complexes, creative strategies, and fun factor, drawing national praise including a spot among America's most enjoyable courses. Expect a challenging yet accessible parkland layout.
Caddie Tip
Approach shots demand careful club selection due to bold green undulations and elevated tiers throughout the course. Stay below the hole and favor the right side on several approaches, especially when greens are quick, to avoid tough downhill putts that can add strokes fast.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect lies in the greens: large, multi-tiered surfaces with pronounced slopes demand precision on approach shots and nervy putting. Approach play must be strategic to avoid difficult recovery shots from collection areas around greens, and tight fairways place a premium on accuracy throughout.
The Good
Golfers love the wild green complexes and creative, risk-reward layout that encourage multiple ways to play each hole. The hospitality, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent food and beverage options at the clubhouse enhance the overall experience, making visitors feel genuinely welcome and eager to return.
The Not So Good
Some golfers find the sloping, tiered greens overly punishing, resulting in three-putts and challenging recoveries. Players occasionally note that the dramatic green contours may detract from overall playability, especially for higher handicaps. Integrated new holes are considered less natural by some, and more tree removal could improve visuals.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The 16th is a striking par 4 featuring a demanding drive over water to a contoured fairway, followed by an approach to a challenging green with dramatic undulations. Its combination of water, bunkering, and architectural interest embodies the character of the course and tests both strategy and execution on the closing stretch.
Clubhouse
The contemporary clubhouse features the acclaimed Rivalry Pub & Grill, locker rooms, event spaces, a pro shop, and spacious patios overlooking the course. Food and drink options, attentive staff, and relaxed gathering areas create a social, comfortable environment for pre- and post-round enjoyment.
Practice Facilities
The Club at Lac La Belle offers a modern driving range, full short-game area with bunkers, chipping greens, and a large practice putting green. Facilities are well maintained and provide ample space for warming up or skill development before your round.
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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