Fall golf is beloved by golfers everywhere and I have captured the 5 reasons to love Wisconsin fall golf. The golf season in the Midwest has a way of ending sharply and suddenly. As October nears, golfers in the more northern states desperately strive to fit in the last few rounds of the season. Typically, the Wisconsin fall golf season is cut shorter by a couple weeks due to unwelcome temperatures and possibly snow (yes, even in October/November). Regardless, I love Wisconsin fall golf and have outlined five reasons why it is a cannot miss in this GolfWisely blog.

Colorful trees line the fairway for fall golf in Wisconsin.
Tree-lined fairways set the perfect backdrop for a fall golf round in Wisconsin.

Number 1 – Colors

The state of Wisconsin promptly delivers on all four seasons but it seems fall golf does not officially start until October 1st. During the month of October, the foliage starts to pop and the air becomes brisk. Sure, some trees will begin to change early, but the cool nights and shortened daylight will accelerate the coloring throughout October. Golf holes that were rich with greens just a few weeks ago now seem to offer a colorful glow framing your tee shot. Die hard fall golf addicts will watch the Wisconsin fall color report throughout Wisconsin to help plan course timing effectively.

Trees turning yellow as fall nears.
Trees beginning to turn yellow alongside the fairways at The Irish.

To fully take in the fall colors, I recommend walking during the round. This is a terrific way to slow down and enjoy the beauty of this season. More on that below.

The viewing amphitheater around hole 18 at Whistling Straits.
At Whistling Straits, these Adirondack chairs make a great place to watch incoming groups.

Number 2 – Tee Times

Reason number two to embrace fall golf in Wisconsin is the plethora of tee times available on the weekends. Many local residents are caught up in Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers football. I am also a fan, but for me, football season does not officially start until after Halloween to ensure I fit in as much golf as possible. This mental approach is necessary to feel like I am not missing a “big game”. I also recommend keeping an eye on the forecast. If the prediction is dry weather then book a tee time and enjoy!

Open fairway
A look down an empty fairway during fall golf

Even though tee times are more widely available I still encourage golfers to embrace the community of the game. In the fall, I notice more singles or twosomes making it a great opportunity to pair up and develop new golf friendships. Joining another group can put many out of our comfort zones, but doing so will serve two benefits; speed of play and expanding your golf circle. Bonus is if everyone is walking!

A look at a clubhouse in Wisconsin Dells.
A look towards the clubhouse at Wild Rock in Wisconsin Dells

Number 3 – Layers

Yes, it is finally Sweater Weather! That amazing feeling of putting on your favorite golf pants and layers – love it. The cooling temperatures just seem to make golf more enjoyable. Sure, warm and sunny is a great forecast but by the time October rolls around brisk air is a welcome change. Just remember, the ball does not travel as far in the cooler temperatures so club up!

Layering can also be quite stylish. After a season of shorts and polos, October is finally time to break out the pants and jackets. Find some nice layering pieces to compliment your golf game. Not sponsored: I like the gear from No Laying Up and Linksoul. And if the course has a cool logo, pick something up from the clubhouse before/after your round.

Layered golf photo
Sweater + pants can look good on the course!

Number 4 – Walk & Chill

For myself, fall golf is the best time to walk. Sling your bag over your shoulder and rustle through the leaves as you play the last few rounds of the year. Walking a golf course provides great perspective. The season grind is coming to a close. Our index is not going to change much now. We have put in the work to lower it; now it is time to embrace your swing and play golf.

Tree lined golf fairway
Lone golfer walking the fairway

Fall golf is a time to minimize the expectations on your game and enjoy time with friends. I like to bring a camera (or phone) to snap pictures during the round. You will be surprised at the different views you will have on foot. And it also serves as good exercise!

Number 5 – Price

Finally, the lowering prices of golf come as the calendar turns to October. Courses throughout Wisconsin lower rates making normally expensive rounds much more attainable. Take advantage of the lowered rates and in my opinion, experience great Wisconsin golf courses in the fall. As a tip, read up on the course website before booking to see when aeration takes place. Low rates or not, no one likes to play on aerated greens.

3 golfers on a green
Grab your golf buddies and fit in 9 holes – you will not regret it

Fall golf in Wisconsin offers a beauty not every state or country can experience. Wisconsinites are a fortunate few and should embrace each round we play after October 1st. Now, call up your golf buddies and plan a round this coming weekend! And golf wisely..


Derek Wise

A Wisconsin-based golfer who loves to share his perspective on the game as well as highlighting local golf courses through reviews.

1 Comment

Joe · October 12, 2019 at 2:16 pm

Well said, I think I play more in the fall just trying to sneak in the last rounds on any nice day I can. And sweaters! Let’s not forgot the classic look of argyle on a true links course. 😉

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