A Perfect Pair
Arizona has become one of the most popular golf states in the U.S., thanks to its dry climate and abundance of sunshine. The pristine golf courses contribute to outstanding golf experiences for players of all skill levels, and according to Golfweek, two of the best golf courses in the state are at TPC Scottsdale.
With a prime location in the Sonoran Desert, TPC Scottsdale is a highly regarded golfer’s paradise that welcomes professionals and recreational players alike. As the home to the WM Phoenix Open, which draws more than 700,000 spectators every year and is the largest-attended tournament in the world, TPC Scottsdale is the only PGA Tour property in Arizona. Since hosting its first PGA Tour in 1987, TPC Scottsdale has been home to many historical golfing moments featuring the greatest contemporary players of the game.
With two championship courses and unbeatable views, TPC Scottsdale gives players plenty of reasons and ways to enjoy the same kind of quality and experience usually reserved for PSA players.
VISITING THE STADIUM
The original golf course of TPC Scottsdale was designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf in 1986. For years, the Stadium Course has been showcased by the PGA Tour, and there’s a distinct appeal to watching golf there — particularly at the iconic 16th hole, which is nicknamed “The Coliseum,” because of the grandstands that surround it. The par-3 hole is the shortest on the Stadium course, but also the most intense, and it’s where a 21-year-old Tiger Woods famously dropped a hole-in-one during the 1997 PGA Tour.
While the 16th hole grabs the attention of spectators, players might be more intimidated by the 17th hole: a par-4 that bends sharply to the right and requires negotiating around a massive bunker. Only about 29% of players can make birdie here, so it’s a great hole for testing your skill (and your nerves).
The fairways are more forgiving than you might expect, particularly compared to other Arizona courses, and the finishing stretch is designed to offer drama and excitement in the best way imaginable. Offering the perfect blend of challenge and playability, this course is designed for making memories regardless of whether you’re a PGA pro or just want to feel like one for a day.
PLAY LIKE A CHAMPION
Built on the site of what was originally TPC Scottsdale’s Desert Course, the Champions Course was designed by Randy Heckenkemper and opened in 2007. The architect built in all the thrills expected when golfing a newer course, but carefully maintained the desert land around it. The par 71 course is known for its undulating Bermuda fairways, pristine greens, and challenging bunkers surrounded by naturally rugged terrain. Ideal for players of all skill levels, each
hole can be played in many different ways — and can play differently each time you visit. And, just to keep it interesting, the last four holes are some of the most challenging and the most exhilarating the Champions Course has to offer. It’s a sure way to make this final stretch one of the most memorable parts of your game.
BEFORE AND AFTER
While these courses are undoubtedly magnificent, TPC Scottsdale offers experiences before and after playing them that will prove memorable, too. The TPC pro shop is the perfect place to pick up some new gear and it has a full range of rental equipment in case you want to leave your clubs at home and take some of the newest offerings from top manufacturers for a test drive. TPC Scottsdale’s world-class driving range with putting and chipping greens is the perfect place to warm up before you step onto the course, and you can also schedule time with a pro to work on your game.
And, once you’ve finished playing, you have a couple of options on where — and how — you wind down. At the Stadium Course Clubhouse, relax and enjoy fine dining at the Toro Restaurant & Rum Bar. The menu, featuring Pan-Latin cuisine developed by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, specializes in small plates designed for sharing. And, as the name indicates, there’s plenty of rum; with more than 150 selections, Toro is home to the area’s largest rum menu. (Pro tip: To take full advantage of the spectacular scenery, reserve an outside table and enjoy views of the McDowell Mountain range overlooking the 18th hole.)
For a more casual experience, visit the Champions Course Clubhouse, which overlooks the 9th green of the Champions Course and serves breakfast, lunch, and a selection of appetizers. You’ll also find craft brews and cocktails on the menu, and the large outdoor covered patio makes for a great place to meet fellow golfers or just reminisce on that day’s game. This is also a great spot to stop before your game or grab a quick bite during the day.
It’s also worth venturing next door to the newly opened DraftKings Sportsbook, an entertainment venue with video screens, an outdoor patio, VIP cabanas, fire pits and more. Although it has 32 betting kiosks and six ticket windows, it’s more than just a sportsbook facility — it also offers an exciting dining experience with upscale appetizers, pizzas, entrées, and a variety of top-shelf spirits and local beers on tap. Its opening in October 2023 makes it the first DraftKings Sportsbook to open at a PGA Tour tournament location.
TPC Scottsdale, 8243 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, Ariz., (480) 585-4334,
tpc. com/scottsdale/champions-course