Golf outings are popular throughout Eastern Iowa for groups who’d like a relaxed networking event or fun and competitive team-bonding outing attached to a business agenda.
In Cedar Rapids, there are several opportunities for groups to hit the links.
The Cedar Rapids Country Club is considered the area’s premier location for golf, tennis, dining and business activities, according to Sarah Tarnowski, director of convention sales at the Cedar Rapids Area CVB.
“Start your day on the award-winning golf course and end it with a social event,” she says.
On-site facilities, which accommodate everything from small business meetings to larger scale receptions and seminars, include a banquet space and a pavilion.
The Cedar Rapids-based Ellis Park Golf Course, a popular spot for tournaments, is among the oldest and most challenging courses in the state, according to Tarnowski.
“Elevated greens along with the occasional visits from local wildlife will make this an experience you won’t forget,” she says.
Bunker Hill Golf Course is located in the rolling hills in the middle of Dubuque. According to Julie Kronlage, director of sales at the Dubuque Area CVB, tournaments can be arranged and there is space on-site for a meal or awards function before or after play.
“What makes this course unique is the hills that you will go up and down chasing the ball,” she says. “Even seasoned golfers sometimes have an issue golfing these hills.”
Located 15 minutes from downtown Dubuque in Asbury, Iowa, is The Meadows, a course that’s been awarded a four-star rating as one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.”
“From a group of 8 to a large outing, The Meadows is a perfect and affordable place for tournaments,” Kronlage says, adding that there is on-site space for a meal or awards function after play.
Anissa Wolfe, director of sales at the Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB recommends two group-friendly courses in the area.
Brown Deer Golf Club offers meeting space for events of up to 200 people, and Finkbine Golf Course specializes in golf tournaments.
“They offer a beautiful pavilion for pre- or post-tournament gatherings at the course,” Wolfe says of Finkbine.