When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Lake Forest Golf Club
Why Lake Forest Golf Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lake Forest Golf Club, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, stands out as a premier public golf course and banquet center that offers a natural, scenic experience combined with excellent facilities. The course is built around a fully renovated turn-of-the-century farmhouse that serves as the charming clubhouse, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and golf enthusiasts alike. The club features well-maintained greens and a fun, medium-difficulty layout with a course rating of around 72 and slope near 130, making it enjoyable for a wide range of players. After a round, visitors can relax at Ogies Bar & Grille, which offers a delicious pub-style menu with freshly prepared dishes and an extensive selection of beers and liquors. The large deck overlooking the course is a favorite spot for socializing and unwinding. Beyond golf, the club offers a driving range, a practice center, and golf lessons from their PGA Professional. Lake Forest Golf Club is locally owned and operated, proudly entering its 24th season, reflecting a strong community presence and dedication to quality service. It also hosts events and special gatherings, making it a great social hub for meeting friends, enjoying the outdoors, and celebrating occasions.
Here's what people think of Lake Forest Golf Club
As of recent, Lake Forest Golf Club holds a 4.3-star rating based on 176 reviews.
User reviews for Lake Forest Golf Club average a solid 4.3 out of 5 based on over 170 reviews, highlighting it as a popular golfing destination in Ann Arbor. Positive feedback frequently praises the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, the course’s enjoyable challenge, and the improved clubhouse facilities including the vibrant deck area and quality food at Ogies Bar & Grille. Many players value the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and good pace of play. The restaurant’s menu and drink selection often receive specific mention as a highlight. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional inconsistencies in course maintenance and a few customer service hiccups. A few golfers reported minor dissatisfaction with course conditions during busy times or days with limited staff availability. However, these issues are generally seen as exceptions rather than the norm, with many comments about management responding positively to concerns. In conclusion, the reviews paint Lake Forest Golf Club as a well-regarded, community-oriented golf facility with excellent amenities and service, ideal for both serious golfers and those looking for a friendlier local golfing experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katie Huber
I really enjoy golfing at Lake Forest, it’s a wonderful course and a great place to introduce friends too. The greens are well maintained and they have been making improvements to the course throughout the seasons. The back nine is slightly more challenging, which keeps it fun! In addition to being a great golf experience, the clubhouse and restaurant is lovely! The staff in the club house is very attentive and kind, I’m always impressed by the food which definitely goes above and beyond the typical golf course menu. The outdoor patio is HUGE with open air covered pergola area and nice electric fire pits, it has made this one of my favorite places to golf then dine or lounge for drinks! They also get bonus points for having insane sunsets. Definitely recommend!
Michelle Roney
One of the best courses to play a round with friends and family! The back 9 can be challenging greens which makes it all the more fun! Very well maintained and ran throughout the season. Also, the staff is so welcoming and kind, and the new patio is great! Love grabbing a drink after at the Ellsworth and having their yummy potato salad! They even offer guests sherpa blankets to sit around the fire pits on cool nice, such nice little details throughout that makes it a wonderful experience from golfing to post golfing!
Elizabeth Jolliffe
I play golf here several times a week for a reason. It's a beautiful piece of land, the course is in good shape and getting even better. It's challenging and fun, and the deck, lawn, food/bev, frequent live music, & sunsets can cap off a day perfectly. The leagues are full and have longevity. People keep returning for golf and/or to dine/special events/etc. That may mean more than any individual review. It's not yet perfect, but I'm proud to call Lake Forest my home course.
Barbara Michael
We had my daughter’s wedding shower at Lake Forest. Everything was wonderful! The staff was so helpful and nice! The food was great and fresh! We had a mimosa bar with several types of juices and fresh fruits which everyone enjoyed! Thank you Gilda and Karen for making our event so special!!
Nick Tselios
I give two stars because price… this course is not worth their rates… at most its a $50 course the cart paths are garbage of one hole they redesigned a year ago isn't even finished… the tee boxes are garbage and not even level for half the holes. Save your money… its obviously overrated on its reviews… now the people who work there are very nice and good people and most fairways are well kept… but still not worth the price.
How to reach Lake Forest Golf Club
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Why Lake Forest Golf Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lake Forest Golf Club with your friends? Because this club offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, top-notch amenities, and an inviting social atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with loved ones. With a solid 4.3-star rating from 176 reviews, Lake Forest Golf Club is not just about golf — it's a lively hub for community, recreation, and memorable experiences. Imagine spending a day surrounded by lush fairways, then transitioning to relaxing dining areas and friendly lounges where stories flow as freely as the drinks. The attentive staff ensures every guest, whether a golf pro or a total beginner, leaves feeling welcomed and cared for. Beyond the golf course, there are activities that engage all age groups, from pools and tennis courts to banquet halls ideal for celebrations. Whether planning a casual meetup or a special event, Lake Forest provides a picturesque yet relaxed environment to connect, compete lightly, and create fun memories with friends or family.
What activities can a group enjoy at Lake Forest Golf Club? First and foremost, the golf experience stands out with an 18-hole meticulously maintained course suitable for all skill levels. Groups can take part in different leagues and tournaments, fostering a shared competitive spirit or simply enjoying a leisurely tee time together. Non-golfers or those looking to mix it up will appreciate the pickleball courts and tennis facilities, making it easy to organize active, engaging matches or even lessons for novices. The outdoor aquatic center features a 25-meter pool, fun slides, and a kid’s pool, setting the scene for summer fun and socializing by the water. For those who prefer relaxation, the clubhouse offers three dining spots and two bars, each with diverse menus and inviting atmospheres, perfect for post-activity meals or casual hangouts. Throughout the year, Lake Forest hosts wine dinners, social events, holiday brunches, and outdoor movie nights, providing ample occasions for groups to come together beyond sports. Importantly, the club’s family-friendly focus is reflected in special events like Father/Daughter dances and swim teams, ensuring a diverse calendar that keeps everyone involved.
Why is Lake Forest Golf Club ideal for hosting group meetups or special events? The club’s versatile spaces cater beautifully to gatherings of various sizes and purposes. With an elegant banquet room able to seat 150 guests or accommodate 200 strolling attendees, it provides an excellent setting for birthdays, reunions, charity fundraisers, and more. Large picture windows frame stunning views of the golf course and sunsets, creating a memorable backdrop for any event. Recent upgrades include a spacious 4,500 square foot deck and a 1,000 square foot pergola that integrates indoor and outdoor areas, enhancing the atmosphere and comfort for guests. Accessibility and parking are convenient, an important factor for group gatherings. The experienced event staff is highly praised for personalized service, ensuring every detail is taken care of, from décor to catering. With in-house catering and beverage options, hosts can design menus tailored to their occasion, removing usual event-planning stress. Whether it’s a formal corporate meeting or a laid-back holiday party, Lake Forest offers a unique “out of office” venue, combining professionalism with relaxation.
What social and recreational benefits does Lake Forest Golf Club offer beyond golf? The club isn’t just a sports facility; it’s a vibrant social community. Members partake in varied leagues not only in golf but also in tennis and pickleball, encouraging friendly competition and social bonding. Recreational swim teams and swimming lessons engage children and adults alike, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere. Seasonal events such as outdoor movie nights and themed wine dinners cultivate opportunities for casual mingling and celebrating special occasions together. For families, the club provides dedicated kids’ rooms and multiple pools including slides, making it an ideal spot for group visits including children. The combination of competitive play and social events ensures no one at Lake Forest ever feels bored. The welcoming staff and community-oriented vibe create a space where long-term friendships blossom along with great memories. Whether your group enjoys athletic challenges or relaxing sunsets by the clubhouse, Lake Forest delivers a rich balance of both.
How does the club accommodate diverse membership interests to enhance group experiences? Lake Forest Golf Club offers flexible membership options tailored to different lifestyles and age groups, which make group interactions inclusive and varied. For golf enthusiasts, full golf memberships provide access to the 18-hole course, leagues, and tournaments. Social memberships cater to individuals or families who may not play golf but want full access to dining, pools, pickleball, and social events—ensuring that everyone’s interests are met. Students and younger members have specialized memberships with practice facilities and golfing opportunities that encourage youth involvement and learning. This inclusivity means you can bring family members and friends with different preferences together under one membership umbrella, enhancing group cohesion. The club’s commitment to a broad appeal means your meetup can incorporate diverse activities and experiences, from serious sport to casual dining and socializing. This variety helps keep events fresh and engaging, ensuring your group’s visit to Lake Forest Golf Club is satisfying for everyone involved.
How do the facilities at Lake Forest Golf Club support memorable and stress-free group meetups? Beyond activity options, excellent facilities are key for enjoyable meetups, and Lake Forest excels in this regard. The clubhouse offers multiple dining rooms and bars, allowing for flexible group sizes and different ambiances—from lively bars for casual drinks to elegant dining for celebratory meals. The event spaces are equipped with modern audio-visual equipment and free WiFi, making them perfect for corporate gatherings, reunions, or parties that may need presentations or speeches. Spacious outdoor areas including decks and pergolas provide options for fresh-air socializing, perfect for warmer months or evening gatherings. Ample parking and easy access close to downtown but nestled in tranquil countryside provide convenience without sacrificing scenic beauty. The highly praised staff takes care of logistical details to ensure smooth event flow and guest comfort. These thoughtfully designed spaces and services reduce hosting stress, allowing you and your group to focus on enjoying your time together.
What makes Lake Forest Golf Club stand out as a destination for groups seeking both recreation and connection? The club’s blend of superb recreational facilities, welcoming social environment, and professional event hosting capabilities creates a standout experience. Its commitment to family-friendly activities alongside competitive sports caters to a full spectrum of interests, making it possible for diverse groups to find common ground here. The scenic natural setting combined with quality dining and attentive service enhances the experience beyond just a place to play golf. The community atmosphere encourages lingering conversations, laughter, and lasting friendships, which are the essence of any great meetup. Plus, the flexibility to hold various events from casual get-togethers to large formal celebrations amplifies its appeal as a versatile venue. Lake Forest Golf Club truly offers more than just a good time; it delivers lasting memories for friends and families to cherish.