Great Places to Celebrate After a Round

As most traveling golfers know, all great memories aren’t created on fairways and greens. It’s after the round when you’re sitting on a patio, veranda or porch with a cool libation that magic can occur.

These wonderful places aren’t traditional 19th holes, they’re stunning settings where sunsets, fire pits and rocking chairs are often the main attraction.

Here are some spectacular selections:

Fire pits at Erin Hills – Overlooking the first hole of Erin Hills Golf Club in Erin, Wisconsin, the fire pits are set on a brick terrace. The scenic panorama beyond the fire pits is of a golf course laid out on pristine land that was once occupied by the last glacier to cover south central Wiconsin.

Outdoor patio at Bandon Trails – At Trails End at the Bandon Trails Clubhouse at Bandon Dunes Resort in Oregon, you’re afforded a magnificent view from the deck looking toward the 18th hole and dunes that roll out from the sea.

Steps to the Royal & Ancient Clubhouse beside the 18th green at the Old Course – When you sit on the steps, you’ll see a performance of sorts as golfers conclude their round. In the distance are golfers taking pictures as they cross the 700-year old Swilcan Bridge. Closer up, you’ll see golfers navigate the Valley of Sin and then putt out. It’s both heart warming and inspiring just to see joyous golfers shaking hands with their caddies and partners after a round on this historic course.

“The Bench” patio at Pebble Beach Golf Links – Before you sit down for lunch or dinner, it’s guaranteed you’ll take pictures galore with your phone or camera. The patio at the Bench Restaurant has some incredible elevated views of the 18th hole. In the evening, outdoor dining amid fire pits provides a phenomenal ambience. By the way, at lunch don’t miss the Portebello Mushroom Fries or the Mac & Cheese with Fontina cheese and Parmesan Bread Crumbs.

Rocking chairs on the veranda at Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort – The sweeping verandas at the Carolina provide a classic, throwback setting to celebrate your good fortune. There’s nothing better than sitting in a large, white rocking chair sipping a bourbon or iced tea and letting the sweet scents of honeysuckle and magnolia attack your senses. The best spot is outside the hotel’s west wing with views of the pool and expansive lawn.