Apart from science and technology, the Triangle is famous for its golf. Blessed with great natural beauty and a variety of terrain—from mountains and wetlands to rolling, forested hills dotted with lakes and crossed with creeks—it provides both inspiration and challenge to golfers of any level. The area boasts several of the best-rated courses in the state, many of which are exceptionally well suited for group outings and off-site events.
- In Durham, Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club (919.490.0999; www.washingtondukeinn.com) unites the Robert Trent Jones-designed Duke University Golf Club with a 271-room hotel and a 600-person conference center. The IACC-approved center offers 20 meeting rooms, including a 7,600-square-foot ballroom. Groups have the opportunity to schedule a lesson with a PGA professional at the top-rated, 18-hole course.
- Heritage Golf Club (919.453.2020; www.playheritagegolf.com), located in Wake Forest just north of Raleigh, is a highly rated course that was designed by Bob Moore and features elevation changes, creeks and lakes. Heritage welcomes tournaments as large as 120 people. Its banquet room offers space for 75 guests with views of the green. Another dining option is 1250 Heritage, an elegant restaurant in the clubhouse. The golf club also partners with Raleigh-based team-building company ThinkWorkPlay to arrange creative golfing events.
- Governors Club (919.918.7264; www.governorsclub.cc) in Chapel Hill is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and a U.S. Open regional qualifying site. Its 27 holes occupy the forested valleys of the Edwards Mountains and are among the best-ranked in the state. This elegant spot offers meeting space for 350 people, including ballrooms with verandas boasting views of the lake and golf course. Opportunities for groups include tournaments, themed outings and professional clinics.
- The Crossings Golf Club (919.598.8686; www.crossingsgolf.com) in Durham offers 18 holes and challenging water hazards, including its signature 12th—an island green. Designed by Ron Garl, the award-winning course treats players to meandering wetlands and panoramic vistas. The club arranges golf outings for groups of up to 288 people and can take care of every aspect of the event, from prizes to food.
