Pete Dye Course French Lick
A championship golf course perched high in Indiana, offering breathtaking views and a challenging Pete Dye design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal weather, fewer crowds
Pete Dye Course French Lick
Best Time
Ideal weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A championship golf course perched high in Indiana, offering breathtaking views and a challenging Pete Dye design.
"Jaw-dropping 40-mile panoramic views make even a double-bogey feel like a win. "
Consider a Forecaddie
Highly recommended for navigating the challenging layout and finding balls. :golfer:
Book 'Stay and Play'
Packages at French Lick Resort can offer great value and convenience. :bed:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Indiana Views
Throughout the course
Jaw-dropping 40-mile views from one of Indiana's highest points. Makes every shot memorable.
Iconic Hole 11
Hole 11
A signature hole known for its challenging design and scenic beauty. A must-play for any golfer.
Championship Layout
Entire course
A challenging 8,100-yard course that has hosted major championships. Expect strategic bunkering and varied elevation.
+1
The Iconic 18th Hole
Hole 18
A dramatic finishing hole that tests your nerve and skill. A memorable end to a round.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tee Time in Advance
Embrace the Challenge and Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Consider a Forecaddie
Highly recommended for navigating the challenging layout and finding balls. :golfer:
Book 'Stay and Play'
Packages at French Lick Resort can offer great value and convenience.
All-Day Play Option
Inquire about 'all-day play' if you want to fit in two rounds. :ticket:
Appreciate the Views
Don't rush; the stunning scenery is as much a part of the experience as the golf. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Consider a Forecaddie
Highly recommended for navigating the challenging layout and finding balls. :golfer:
Book 'Stay and Play'
Packages at French Lick Resort can offer great value and convenience.
All-Day Play Option
Inquire about 'all-day play' if you want to fit in two rounds. :ticket:
Appreciate the Views
Don't rush; the stunning scenery is as much a part of the experience as the golf. :camerawithflash:
Gift After Your Round
Enjoy the nice touch of a whiskey bottle, cigar, and bag tag post-game. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pete Dye Course at French Lick for its spectacular panoramic views and challenging, championship-level design. The staff and caddies receive high marks for their service, enhancing the overall experience. While the course is undeniably difficult, many find the stunning scenery and unique layout make it a must-play destination.
"You don’t have to be Tiger Woods to love the Pete Dye Course at French Lick. Perched on one of the highest points in Indiana, the course serves up jaw-dropping 40-mile panoramic views that make even a double-bogey feel like a win.
This place is for everyone—PGA level pros chasing perfection, weekend warriors out to prove something, and putt-putt dads just happy to make it down the fairway. The staff is welcoming, the vibe is relaxed, and the course itself is both challenging and fun; a true 5-star experience that is simply par for the Timeless French Lick destination.
Come for the golf, stay for the scenery—this is Indiana golf at its absolute best."
Joe Lannan
"It’s a must play for any avid golfer. The layout and the views are unmatched where you will spend most of the round just enjoying the view. Very difficult course and must rely on the forecaddie. We had Ryan who was spectacular and made the experience even better."
Robert Ardino
"I photographed a wedding here recently and they were wonderful to work with! The coordinator was great and the ceremony views 10/10!! Highly recommend and hope to come back again soon ☺️"
Gabriella Sutherland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pete Dye Course is located at French Lick Resort in Orange County, Indiana. It's accessible by car, with the nearest major airports being Louisville International Airport (SDF) and Indianapolis International Airport (IND), both about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away.
Yes, ample parking is available at the French Lick Resort, which serves the Pete Dye Course. You can typically find convenient parking near the golf facilities.
While ride-sharing services might be available in larger nearby towns, they are less common directly at French Lick Resort. It's best to plan your transportation in advance, especially if you're not staying at the resort.
The most common route from Indianapolis is via I-65 South to IN-60 East, then following signs for French Lick. The drive takes approximately 2 hours.
French Lick Resort typically offers shuttle services to help guests navigate between its various amenities, including the golf courses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees for the Pete Dye Course can vary significantly based on the season, day of the week, and time of day. It's recommended to check the official French Lick Resort golf website for current pricing and packages.
Absolutely. The Pete Dye Course is a premier destination, and tee times book up quickly, especially during peak golf seasons. Booking online or by phone well in advance is highly recommended.
The 'all-day play' option typically allows you to play multiple rounds in a single day for a set fee. You usually make a morning tee time and can then circle around for another round, subject to availability.
French Lick Resort often offers various packages, including 'stay and play' deals that bundle accommodation with golf. Keep an eye on their website for seasonal promotions.
Typically, the green fee includes access to the course. Carts are usually mandatory and included, but it's always best to confirm when booking. Some packages might include range balls.
🎫 ⛳ Golf Experience
The Pete Dye Course is renowned for its challenging layout, measuring over 8,100 yards from the tips. It features significant elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens, making it a true test for golfers of all skill levels. +1
Yes, a caddie is highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. They can help you navigate the course, read the greens, and advise on club selection, significantly enhancing your experience and helping you avoid trouble.
Hole 11 is frequently cited as a signature hole, known for its dramatic design. The finishing 18th hole is also a memorable challenge.
The course is perched on one of the highest points in Indiana, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, often stretching up to 40 miles.
The dress code typically requires collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim and athletic shorts are usually not permitted. It's always a good idea to check the resort's specific golf dress code policy.
📸 📸 Photography
The elevated tee boxes, particularly on holes with expansive views like Hole 11 and the finishing holes, offer incredible photo opportunities. The general landscape and the course's dramatic design also provide many scenic backdrops.
Yes, you can take photos during your round. Many golfers capture shots of their drives, approach shots, and the stunning scenery. Just be mindful of pace of play and other golfers.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions on personal photography for golfers. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits. Always check with the golf staff if you have specific needs.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic elevation changes can still create striking images.
Yes, the French Lick Resort itself is a historic and beautiful property, offering many picturesque spots for photography beyond the golf course.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining facilities available at the French Lick Resort, including options near the golf courses. You can find casual fare and more upscale dining experiences within the resort complex.
French Lick Resort offers a variety of dining options, from casual grills and sports bars to fine dining restaurants. You can find American cuisine, steaks, seafood, and more.
Typically, there are beverage carts that circulate the course offering drinks and snacks. Some courses also have halfway houses or snack bars.
The resort itself has numerous dining options. For dining outside the resort, you'll find local eateries in the towns of French Lick and nearby West Baden Springs.
Absolutely. Many golfers enjoy a meal and drinks at one of the resort's restaurants or bars after their round to relax and discuss their game.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children interested in golf, the resort also offers other, potentially more accessible, golf options. The Donald Ross Course at French Lick is another excellent, though less demanding, option. The resort's overall atmosphere and amenities make it a well-rounded destination for a family getaway, even if not everyone is playing the Pete Dye Course.
💰 Budget Travelers
Traveling during the off-season (late fall, winter, early spring) can also yield lower green fees and accommodation prices. Consider playing during weekday afternoons when demand might be lower. While a forecaddie is recommended, it's an additional cost. If budget is a primary concern, you might opt to play without one, but be prepared for a tougher round. Exploring dining options outside the resort in nearby towns can also help save on food expenses.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
French Lick Resort features several elegant dining options, perfect for a romantic dinner. The historic hotels, like the French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel, offer charming accommodations and a sense of old-world grandeur. Enjoying a sunset cocktail overlooking the rolling hills after a day of golf adds to the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pete Dye Design Philosophy
At French Lick, Dye masterfully incorporated the region's significant elevation changes, resulting in holes that play uphill, downhill, and across dramatic slopes. The course is known for its wide fairways that can be deceptive, leading golfers into trouble if they aren't precise with their approach shots. The absence of trees in many areas means wind can be a significant factor, adding another layer of challenge.
+1This design approach makes the course a true test of a golfer's ability to adapt and strategize. It's a course that demands respect and rewards thoughtful play, ensuring a memorable and often humbling experience for every golfer.
Experiencing French Lick Resort
+1Many visitors choose to 'stay and play,' combining rounds on the Pete Dye Course with other resort activities. This allows for a relaxed pace, with easy access to amenities and a chance to explore the charming history of the area. The resort often offers packages that bundle accommodation with golf, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Beyond the resort's immediate offerings, the surrounding area provides opportunities for exploring local attractions, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of southern Indiana. The resort's commitment to service ensures a high-quality experience, whether you're there solely for golf or for a broader vacation.
+1Forecaddies: Your Advantage on the Course
On a course like Pete Dye's, where fairways can be wide but hazards are strategically placed, and the terrain can be undulating, a forecaddie's ability to spot your ball can save you significant strokes and frustration. They also help maintain pace of play by being ready for the next shot and guiding players to their balls quickly.
Many reviews highlight the exceptional service provided by forecaddies, noting how they significantly enhance the overall golf experience. Their local knowledge and understanding of the course's nuances can be invaluable, turning a potentially difficult round into an enjoyable and successful one.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit