By Hunter Lanier

There’s just something different about playing on a pro-level lakeside golf course. Whether it’s the unique strategy of the holes, the breathtaking scenery, or the immaculate maintenance, the courses in The Colony maintain a standard rarely seen in neighborhood country clubs. Between rounds, explore all-inclusive golf outfitters and more lighthearted golf entertainment. Read on to learn more! 

Go Back in Time at Old American Golf Club 

Named one of Golf Magazine’s top five public courses in Texas, Old American Golf Club is a must-play for any golfer. Part of the Golf Clubs at The Tribute, Old American’s design emulates the “Golden Age of Golf Architecture,” when naturally formed bunkers, native grasses, and wildlife habitats were the benchmark.  

Not only does this native concept give the course a distinctive appearance, but it also factors into the course’s gameplay. Given the emphasis on natural elements—which are notoriously fickle—your approach to the course must be constantly changing, as well.  

Perhaps the most notable difference in strategy will come from the sand bunkers. Unlike a modern bunker, which can often be used as a viable playing surface, the bunkers at Old American stay true to the “hazard” moniker. 

Tribute Golf Links Bring Scotland to America 

The other half of Golf Clubs at the Tribute and Aanother course listed as one of the top five in Texas by Golf Magazine is Tribute Golf Links. The Tribute boasts a unique aesthetic, inspired by the legendary courses of Scotland such as St. Andrews, Muirfield, or Royal Troon. Experience wind-swept dunes, sea-washed grasses, and challenging water hazards designed by renowned architect, Tripp Davis on this true links-style course. 

Scottish inspiration doesn’t end at the 18th hole. Discover artifacts in the main clubhouse, brought all the way to Texas by the owner in 2000. What’s more, you’ll be happy to learn that even the clubhouse’s restaurant, the Tom Morris Pub, takes inspiration from Scotland. Feast on fish and chips battered in Guinness beer after a long day of crushing the competition! 

A Quick Game at the Stewart Peninsula Golf Course

Located across the peninsula, sharing the same stunning lake views, is the local favorite, Stewart Peninsula Golf Course. This flexible 9-hole course features double greens for a full 18-hole experience along more than 65 acres. A more forgiving course, Stewart Peninsula provides challenging play while also welcoming beginner golfers. 

Stewart Peninsula also draws upon Scottish influences, but adds coastal course inspiration from California’s Monterey Peninsula for good measure. Prepare to “Take Dead Aim” playing this course, which is specifically designed an ever-changing wind factor, a terraced final hole, and plenty of water hazards (it is a peninsula, after all).  

Golf Entertainment for Everyone

If you’d like to take a break from the tactics of traditional courses—or maybe some non-golfers slipped into your group—The Colony has unique options to get a more casual golf fix.  

Forget everything you know about mini- golf. Puttery takes the concept of putt-putt, spins it on its head, and slaps a 21+ label on it. Gone are the windmills and alligators. Instead, you can expect immersive courses with themes such as “office library,” “optical illusion,” and “ski lodge.” What’s more, each course has its own thematic cocktail and culinary creations, perfect for a night out with friends.  

Putting is fun, but sometimes you just really want to drive the ball as far as you can. That’s where Topgolf and its Toptracer technology shine. From the comfort of a climate-controlled bay, you can play golf games for any skill level with micro-chipped balls that compute your score based on accuracy and distance. Refuel between swings with food and drinks brought right to your tee box. 

The latest golf entertainment experience in The Colony is PopStroke, a synthetic turf putting course designed by none other than Tiger Woods. Featuring two courses, designed to improve your short game, these fairways, bunkers, and roughs can be enjoyed by any skill level. Keep track of your game via a virtual scorecard and dominate the leaderboard. If you get hungry, enjoy menu items delivered to you on the course or hang out at the full-service restaurant and bar! 

Premium Shopping for Golfers 

Whether it’s a new driver, set of golf balls, or that practice net you’ve been hearing about, the game never stops evolving. At The Colony’s golf superstores, expert staff can help you keep up and take your game to the next level.  

2nd Swing Golf hasis over 25,000 square feet of clubs, balls, apparel, bags, gadgets, and more. In addition, they provide trade-in opportunities. Use the 2nd Swing valuation tool online to find out how much your current clubs are worth. Also worth mentioning are their custom fitting and build-a-club services, so you can ensure your clubs are perfectly matched to your swing. 

Conveniently located in the heart of Grandscape, The Colony’s premier indoor-outdoor entertainment, shopping, and dining destination, is another prime retailer for the latest in golf goods: SCHEELS. With its expansive interior of aquariums, wildlife models, interactive games, and Ferris wheel, the kids will enjoy coming along. Plus, SCHEELS goes beyond golf with over 85 specialty departments  for all your sporting, home, fashion, and fan needs.  

Plan the Ultimate Golf Weekend in The Colony 

Visit The Colony and treat yourself to three lakeside courses, shop the latest equipment, and keep playing after the sun goes down.  

However you spend your dream golf getaway, every golfer needs a clubhouse to come back to and a place to refuel. Plan your stay by checking out some of The Colony’s most relaxing hotels. and choose from a vast selection of restaurants and cuisines.  

About the Author: Hunter Lanier is the head writer and content specialist for Tour Texas. When he isn’t writing about the many great places in the state of Texas, he’s writing books and screenplays. He may or may not own an armadillo in the future.