When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Heron Lakes Golf Course
Why Heron Lakes Golf Course is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Heron Lakes Golf Course, located just minutes north of downtown Portland, Oregon, offers a great venue to gather with friends for a memorable golfing experience amidst two championship courses. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., the Great Blue and Greenback courses present unique challenges that cater to golfers of all skill levels — from beginners to seasoned low-handicap players. The Great Blue Course, opened in 1992, features a links-style layout with small undulating greens, rambling fairways through fescue grass, and over 80 bunkers adding strategic depth. The Greenback Course balances quality and value with its own championship design and varied tee options. Beyond golf, Heron Lakes offers amenities like a grass tee driving range, professional PGA instruction, a pro shop, and a welcoming bar and grill that operates daily, making it a versatile spot for relaxing or celebrating a round. The friendly, accessible atmosphere combined with picturesque views provides a great meet-up destination where friends can enjoy both spirited competition and casual camaraderie.
Here's what people think of Heron Lakes Golf Course
As of recent, Heron Lakes Golf Course holds a 4.1-star rating based on 264 reviews.
Reviews of Heron Lakes Golf Course highlight a solid 4.1-star rating based on 264 reviews, reflecting generally positive guest experiences with room for improvement. Positive reviews frequently praise the quality and variety of the two courses, noting the challenging yet enjoyable layouts and well-maintained greens. Golfers appreciate the affordability relative to other championship courses in the Pacific Northwest and commend the convenient location near downtown Portland. The bar and grill and professional instruction offerings also receive compliments for enhancing the overall experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional course maintenance inconsistencies, slow play during peak times, and issues with customer service. A few users also note that the cart rental process and course signage could be improved for better clarity. Overall, however, the majority express satisfaction with the blend of quality, value, and welcoming environment at Heron Lakes, making it a recommended destination for both serious golfers and social groups seeking a pleasant day out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mitch Baker
My favorite city course in Portland. Greenback is super friendly, especially if you have a propensity to hit a fade off the tee box. Great blue will kick your ass, but it’s a fun links style course.
Chris Power
Love this course. Always a joy with staff and players. Lost a star because they charge for your wife to come along as a ride along. Wild. But here's a beautiful photo I captured. Posted edited.
Donna Herzfeldt-Kamprath
Great public course. Muddy this time of year but to be expected. Such a variety of trees on the course make it attractive. Watch out for bunkers on the doglegs!
Jamie Lottering
Played Greenback and found it pretty challenging. Water hazards on many of the holes and a lot of greens surrounded by bunkers. If you play during sunrise bring extra balls as I had a hell of a time finding mine due to plugged lies in fairway and rough.
Zachary Pepin
We played the green side on Saturday and was disappointed. While the course was in overall good shape and the price was very reasonable for Saturday golf, the pace of play and noise level was insane. The one time we actually saw a Marshall was on the 15th green. When he asked how things were going we said it was very slow (often waiting 10 minutes to tee off), he just goes "slow huh?" And just kept driving. Outside of that the noise level was stupid. Outside of multiple trains coming through, not so bad, but it's right by PIR (Portland International Speedway). The sound is heard from everywhere on the course and very noisy and loud. I don't know if they can change it but they should let people know. I'm going to putt and hear cars roaring isn't great
How to reach Heron Lakes Golf Course
None
Website: None
Why Heron Lakes Golf Course may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Heron Lakes Golf Course with your friends?
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to gather your friends for a memorable outing, Heron Lakes Golf Course is an exceptional choice. Nestled just north of downtown Portland, this premier golf destination offers not only a high-quality golfing experience but also a wide range of amenities and activities that cater to groups of all interests. It’s ideal for creating lasting memories, whether you’re planning a casual day on the greens or a lively social event. The course boasts two championship 18-hole courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., offering a challenge suitable for players of all skill levels. Beyond golf, the venue provides ample social spaces, including a bar and grill, generous driving ranges, and extensive practice facilities. This combination ensures that everyone, regardless of their golf ability, can participate and enjoy themselves. The friendly atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and excellent facilities make Heron Lakes a hub for socializing, friendly competition, and relaxation with friends or family, promising a full day of fun and entertainment.
What activities does Heron Lakes Golf Course offer for groups?
Heron Lakes Golf Course is far more than just a golf facility; it’s a versatile destination with a rich array of activities designed to keep groups entertained throughout the day. The centerpiece of the course experience are the two championship 18-hole golf courses, the Great Blue and Greenback, both carved with distinctive layouts and lush settings. They create a memorable backdrop for tournaments, casual rounds, or golf clinics led by PGA instructors. For groups interested in honing their skills or simply warming up, Heron Lakes features an all-grass driving range with 25 tees, expansive putting greens, chipping areas, and even practice bunkers. Outside of golf, the onsite bar and grill serves as a fantastic gathering spot to relax post-round or enjoy casual meals and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, hosting a corporate outing, or simply catching up, the bar and grill offers a convivial setting paired with great food and drink options. For those not playing golf, there’s still plenty to do nearby, as the surrounding Herons Glen community offers amenities like tennis courts, swimming, and social rooms that can accommodate larger groups. With such a broad spectrum of activities and social spaces, Heron Lakes ensures no one feels left out.
Why is Heron Lakes Golf Course perfect for group meetups?
Heron Lakes Golf Course is uniquely suited for group meetups because it offers an inclusive environment that harmonizes sport, leisure, and social interaction across a large, scenic space. Groups can tailor their experience—whether it’s an active sports day featuring golf competitions and instruction, or a low-key gathering around the bar and grill. The large capacity of the golf courses ensures that even bigger groups can play without feeling rushed or crowded, while the driving range and practice facilities can be booked for group clinics or friendly competitions. The venue’s proximity to Portland makes it easily accessible for friends or family coming from various locations, reducing logistical stress. Additionally, Heron Lakes has a proven track record of hosting prestigious tournaments and events, illustrating its capability to handle large groups with professional service and well-maintained facilities. The peaceful setting, juxtaposed with ample amenities, creates an inviting atmosphere that promotes camaraderie and connection. Additionally, the course’s commitment to affordability ensures that groups can enjoy a premium experience without an extravagant budget, making it a smart choice for a wide range of occasions.
What amenities support social gatherings at Heron Lakes Golf Course?
Social gatherings at Heron Lakes Golf Course benefit from a number of excellent amenities designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and enjoyment. Most notably, the bar and grill offers a casual dining experience perfect for group meals or celebrations following a round of golf. The space encourages relaxed conversation and allows groups to share stories from their game or plan their next outing. For larger celebrations or private events, Herons Glen’s community clubhouse nearby provides spacious rooms such as grand ballrooms with dance floors and professional stage setups, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or meetups that want a more festive atmosphere. While this clubhouse is part of the adjacent Herons Glen community, many visitors choose to combine their visit to Heron Lakes with these excellent additional venues, amplifying the venue’s appeal. With ample parking, easy course access, and friendly staff, the venue simplifies event planning and day-of coordination. For fitness enthusiasts within your group, on-site facilities like tennis, bocce, and pickleball courts add variety to your gathering, ensuring that every guest finds an engaging activity. This diversity of spaces and amenities means your group won’t have to compromise on the type of experience you want.
How accessible and convenient is Heron Lakes Golf Course for group outings?
Heron Lakes Golf Course is highly accessible and convenient, making it an outstanding choice for group outings. Located just minutes north of downtown Portland off Interstate 5, it benefits from easy highway access and ample parking, which helps streamline arrivals and departures for groups traveling from different neighborhoods or farther afield. The facility's operating hours generally run from early morning to evening, accommodating varied schedules and allowing flexible tee times or event start times for groups. Additionally, golf cart rentals and comprehensive practice facilities add convenience that can enhance the group experience by helping ensure everyone can participate comfortably, regardless of fitness level. The availability of professional golf instruction and clinics further supports groups wishing to improve their skills or enjoy guided experiences, which are especially popular for birthday meetups or team-building events. Another advantage is the course’s blend of affordability with high-quality courses and amenities, which means groups can enjoy a premium experience without large expenses. This combination of convenience, quality, and affordability makes Heron Lakes a top choice for social golf meetups near Portland.
What makes the golfing experience at Heron Lakes special for groups?
The golfing experience at Heron Lakes is special for groups due to a blend of its expansive championship courses, quality practice facilities, and inclusive atmosphere. The Great Blue and Greenback courses, both designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jr., provide a challenging but enjoyable test of golf set against the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Each course offers unique strategic elements and scenic views that invite players to bring their best game, yet they remain welcoming to golfers of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned players. In addition to the courses themselves, the extensive all-grass driving range and practice greens allow groups to warm up together or engage in friendly competitions that add an extra layer of fun to meetups. The variety of tee boxes accommodates every skill level, ensuring all group members can find a comfortable and competitive setting. Furthermore, Heron Lakes frequently hosts tournaments and golf events, fostering a community spirit and making group outings feel part of a larger tradition and experience. This combination of quality, challenge, and camaraderie keeps groups returning year-round.
How can Heron Lakes Golf Course enhance family or friend celebrations?
Hosting family or friend celebrations at Heron Lakes Golf Course elevates the occasion by combining sport, nature, and socializing in a beautiful and versatile setting. The course’s expansive grounds allow for flexible event formats, from casual golf rounds to picnic-style gatherings and formal celebrations in nearby community spaces. After a day on the greens, guests can unwind at the bar and grill, enjoying freshly prepared meals and drinks in an inviting atmosphere perfect for laughter and storytelling. The option to incorporate golf instruction or mini-tournaments adds a fun, interactive element that appeals to guests of all ages, turning a typical reunion into a memorable experience. The welcoming environment encourages togetherness, whether catching up over a leisurely game or cheering on a friendly competition. Because of its comprehensive amenities, convenient location, and scenic views, Heron Lakes suits a wide spectrum of celebrations, from birthdays and anniversaries to corporate team-building and casual weekend meetups, making it a complete destination that brings friends and families closer.
What additional features support youth and beginner golfers at Heron Lakes?
Heron Lakes Golf Course is particularly supportive of youth and beginner golfers through its extensive practice facilities, professional instruction, and welcoming atmosphere. The driving range is all-grass with 25 well-maintained tees, paired with a large putting green, chipping green, and bunker facilities that provide beginners the ideal environment to learn and practice various aspects of golf. The course hosts PGA-certified instructors who offer camps, clinics, and individual lessons designed to be fun, engaging, and educational, creating a safe and encouraging space for young players to develop skills and confidence. Programs emphasize both the technical side of golf and the game's etiquette and rules, fostering a well-rounded golfing education. This dedication to accessibility and learning extends to families, where parents can feel comfortable bringing children or novices to enjoy the sport together. By supporting players at every level, Heron Lakes reinforces its reputation as a community hub and ensures that every guest, regardless of age or skill, feels included and valued.
Why is Heron Lakes Golf Course a great value for group outings?
Heron Lakes Golf Course provides excellent value for group outings through its combination of quality, convenience, and affordability. The presence of two championship 18-hole courses designed by a top architect offers a premium golf experience often found at more exclusive private clubs but at public course prices accessible to all. Golf carts, driving range access, and professional instruction add to the value by enhancing convenience and enjoyment without extra burdens on groups planning an outing. The inclusive nature of the facilities—catering to players of all abilities, including beginners and youth—means groups don’t have to exclude anyone when deciding to meet here. Its proximity to Portland also reduces travel costs and complexity. Furthermore, the bar and grill on site provides a cost-effective option for post-round meals and socialization without the need to venture offsite, saving time and money for groups. These factors make Heron Lakes a smart, enjoyable, and affordable choice for anyone planning a social golf event or casual meetup.
What do reviews and community feedback say about Heron Lakes Golf Course?
Reviews and community feedback highlight Heron Lakes Golf Course as a beloved community asset with consistently positive praise for its quality courses and welcoming environment. With a solid rating of 4.1 from over 260 reviews, guests frequently commend the well-maintained fairways, practice facilities, and friendly, helpful staff. Golfers appreciate the challenge and beauty of the Great Blue and Greenback courses, often noting their variety and scenic design as standout features. The affordability and accessibility are also recurring themes, with many pointing out that the course strikes a good balance between value and experience. Some reviews might mention occasional peak-time crowding, but overall, the course is celebrated as an inviting hub that caters well to social groups, families, and individual players alike. The community-oriented nature of Heron Lakes, including its role in hosting youth camps and prestigious events, reinforces its status as both a local favorite and a must-visit golf destination near Portland.
Heron Lakes Golf Course is an excellent place to host meetups with friends or family, providing an unmatched combination of championship golf, diverse activities, social amenities, and accessibility. From competitive play to casual gatherings, it offers everything needed for a memorable group experience.