Golfing can be a great way to unplug, escape into nature, and enjoy the personal challenge of the game. It can help you stay in shape if you walk the course, bring out your competitive side, or even help you close your next sale if you golf with business acquaintances. You don't need to pay thousands each year to join the Topeka Country Club to have access to incredible local courses.  

In Topeka, there are several public golf courses offering a strategic design, beautiful natural scenery, and a fair challenge for all player types. If you're looking for a new golf course to practice your game, relax in nature, or host a tournament, check out these 5 best golf courses near Topeka, KS that offer the best golfing experience. 

Lake Shawnee Golf 

There are many golf courses near Topeka, but not all measure up to Lake Shawnee Golf. This golf course has a par 70 layout that makes it a challenge, even for seasoned players. Lake Shawnee was initially designed in 1972 by Larry W. Flatt, a course designer with a reputation for creating holes that balance challenge with enjoyable play. The course was updated by Craig Schreiner in 2001, who helped modernize all 18 holes.  

If you're looking for breathtaking views and challenging gameplay, then Lake Shawnee Golf Course should be on your list. Many golfers use Lake Shawnee Golf for professional tournaments. They offer a variety of facilities and services, as well as a stellar 18-hole course. The staff here can even help you manage your event from planning to clean-up. 

If you're a beginner, Lake Shawnee Golf offers affordable instruction programs designed to provide a relaxed, fun, and informative learning environment. Lake Shawnee is also relatively affordable, making it a great option for those trying to golf on a budget. 

Cypress Ridge 

Cypress Ridge is one of the most popular golf courses in Topeka, KS. Many golfers like this course as it offers a great challenge for all ages and skill levels. Cypress Ridge's course includes 18 holes with a par of 70.  

At Cypress Ridge, you'll enjoy beautiful views and fun, challenging gameplay. If you're a beginner and want to practice, Cypress Ridge has an expansive grass tee line, an artificial turf tee line for off-season practice, and a large practice putting green. They also offer private instruction and junior instruction for children. There are golf leagues here for men and women who want to regularly play with other enthusiasts. 

Firekeeper 

If you're looking for a challenge, Firekeeper is one of the best golf courses near Topeka, KS. This golf course offers a layout to challenge players of all skill levels. This par 72 golf course has hosted various tournaments over the years. 

This course was designed by the architect Jeff Brauer and Notah Begay III, a 4-time PGA Tour winner, so it has many challenging features sure to keep avid amateur golfers engaged. Firekeeper has been selected as the top golf course in Kansas before, and for good reason! They have an on-site pro shop with everything you need to up your game, as well as an adjacent hotel if you play with out-of-town guests. There's also a Trackman Range where you can play virtual golf when the weather doesn't allow for outdoor play.  

Colbert Hills 

Another excellent golf course near Topeka, KS, is Colbert Hills. They are passionate about elevating your golfing experience through a state-of-the-art golf course. Colbert Hills was designed by eight-time PGA Tour Winner Jim Colbert and Jeff Brauer, who also helped with Firekeeper. 

Golfers will enjoy the rolling terrain, offering stunning views of the captivating Flint Hills region that surrounds the state's native prairie tallgrass. With 18 holes, golfers of all types can find a challenging and rewarding layout. For instance, Hole 16 is a par 5 that plays uphill through a long valley and features the narrowest fairway on the course. Hole 17 is a par 3 and is the longest par 3 on the course. It typically plays into the south wind, offering additional challenge for even the most seasoned players. 

Colbert Hills also has a practice area for players at all levels, prioritizing comfort in a distraction-free setting. Its three practice areas include a driving range, putting green, and artificial green. There are lessons available, as well as a league where avid players regularly get together.  

Forbes Golf Course 

If you're looking for a simple yet strategic golf course in Topeka, KS, Forbes Golf Course should be on your list. This stunning golf course was designed by renowned architect Bob Baldock. It has some of the most affordable daily rates in the area as well!  

This regulation-style course offers 9 holes stretching over 3200 yards. Additionally, Forbes Golf Course is a Par 35 layout that offers golfers excitement and challenge at each hole. If you're interested in private instruction, Forbes Golf Course offers affordable instruction programs to develop your game. They also offer a junior golf summer program run through Cypress Ridge Golf Course and Lake Shawnee Golf Course. 

The Best Local Homes, By Par 

Living close to where you play can inspire you to take advantage of early tee times or make joining a league less intimidating. Brookfield Village Apartments in Southwest Topeka boasts the perfect combination of comfortable accommodations and a convenient location. Our community is only three minutes by car from Cypress Ridge Golf Course, 16 minutes from Lake Shawnee Golf Course, and under 20 minutes from Forbes Golf Course.  

Nestled in a quiet and scenic neighborhood, Brookfield Village offers 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with walk-in closets that have room for your clubs, as well as washer and dryer connections in certain floor plans so you can easily clean up after a long day on the course. There are also on-site laundry facilities for your convenience.  

Our pet-friendly community has beautiful grounds that feature an enclosed dog park for your canine companion, so they can get their exercise too! Contact our on-site team to learn about available homes and schedule a tour. Your new home in Topeka awaits at Brookfield Village Apartments.