Take to the links with your crew during National Golf Month, where they'll develop skills in a sport they can play for a lifetime. Here are five extraordinary places where you can tee it up together:
1. Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst, N.C. Check into this historic resort, the scene of many famous tournaments, including the U.S. Kids Golf World Championships for an iconic family golf getaway. Called the Cradle of American Golf, Pinehurst nurtures young players, offering junior tee markers and scorecards on all but one of nine courses. Check out Thistle Du, an undulating, 18-hole putting course, or take a break from golf and try your skills on the croquet and lawn bowling greens. Ask about family clinics, free rentals for juniors, special desserts designed for junior diners, and kids stay and eat free programs. Contact: www.pinehurst.com; www.Shipsticks.com.
2. The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colo. Known for its impeccable service and stunning views, this five-star resort and its golf program has played host to national tournaments (including the upcoming 2018 Senior Open) as well as families eager to enjoy the storied game. With Rocky Mountain grandeur as your backdrop, choose from three courses, each providing unique challenges and enjoyment. Kids 12 and under play free with a paying adult after 2 p.m. Ask about complimentary Sunday afternoon family golf clinics and unlimited weekday golf packages. Beyond the links, families enjoy hiking, resort-style pools, bowling, boating and tennis. Contact: www.Broadmoor.com.
3. Pebble Beach Resort, Pebble Beach, Calif. Why fool around? Move right to the top spot on your bucket list with a trip to Pebble Beach. Pegged as a "must-play" for every devotee of the game, it's a chance to channel the swing thoughts of some of golf's greatest players while giving it your best shot on the Pebble Beach Golf Links (the country's No. 1-rated public course), The Links at Spanish Bay and Spyglass Hill Golf Course. With the Summer Stay and Play package you and your clan will enjoy special savings as well as epic views on the memory-making tracks. Contact: www.PebbleBeach.com.
4. Madden's at Gull Lake, Brainerd, Minn. Make golf the centerpiece of your family fun when you visit this classic Midwestern resort in the land of 10,000 lakes. Get your good-natured game on with a little croquet, horseshoes, badminton or shuffleboard. Scale up with a family stroll around the Social 9, a casual setting where eight par threes and a lone par 4 provide an ideal introduction for new players or a tuneup for the more experienced. Then, test your skills on one of three longer tracks. Don't miss The Classic, where dramatic views, challenging shots and punishing pin placements make for an unforgettable round. Contact: Maddens.com; ExploreMinnesota.com
5. Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, N.Y. Nestled in the scenic high peaks of the Adirondacks, this luxury, all-suite retreat is a popular getaway for active families. Kamp Kanu, the on-site children's adventure camp, provides an alternative to time on the links at any of three nearby courses. Ask about the Stay More, Play More packages that enable families to use resort credits for activities that include golf. Contact: www.TheWhitefaceLodge.com.
