ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The National Golf Club of Kansas City was designed by Hall-of-Famer Tom Watson, a Kansas City native, and hosted the Senior PGA Tour's Bayer Advantage Classic in 2003 and 2004.
About
The National Golf Club of Kansas City is a private club in Parkville, Missouri, masterfully designed by Tom Watson. The course weaves through rolling hills and wooded glens and is renowned for its challenging layout and scenic elevation changes. Since opening in 2000, it has been recognized as one of the area's most prestigious clubs, offering first-class amenities and a picturesque golf experience.
Caddie Tip
Play cautiously off the tee, as elevation changes and strategically placed hazards put a premium on accuracy over distance. Pay particular attention to club selection on the downhill holes, especially the 9th, and favor the middle of greens to avoid tough recovery shots from deep bunkers and runoff areas.
The Main Challenge
The course’s greatest challenge is the dramatic elevation changes, including forced carries and sidehill lies that require precise ball striking. Deep bunkers, penal rough, and small, rolling greens place a premium on distance control and course management, especially with swirling winds and demanding approaches.
The Good
Golfers love the stunning natural beauty, the strategic variety brought by Tom Watson's design, and the rolling elevation changes that make each hole feel unique. The championship-level challenge, paired with immaculate conditions and upscale club amenities, consistently impress both members and guests.
The Not So Good
While some praise the challenge, others wish for more forgiving fairways and greens, as the layout can feel punishing for mid- to high-handicappers. Some guests also note slow play during peak times and desire additional food options or seasonal menu updates in the clubhouse.
Signature Hole:
#
9
The par-4 9th is recognized for its dramatic 100-foot drop from tee to fairway. Players face a memorable, elevated tee shot with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Parkville landscape, followed by a demanding approach to a well-guarded green. Both visually stunning and strategically challenging, this hole often lingers in the memories of those who play it.
Clubhouse
Amenities include a luxurious clubhouse with upscale dining at Creekside Grill, a full-service bar, members’ lounge, locker rooms, tennis and pickleball courts, a modern fitness center, multiple swimming pools, and social gathering spaces. The club offers abundant opportunities for both relaxation and recreation before or after a round.
Practice Facilities
The club features extensive practice amenities, including a full-length driving range, multiple short game areas, four practice putting greens, and an indoor golf facility. These spaces cater to both casual practice and focused game improvement year-round.
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.
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