When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
McCormick Ranch Golf Club
Why McCormick Ranch Golf Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McCormick Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a notable golf destination featuring two 18-hole championship courses—the Palm and the Pine Courses—both designed by Desmond Muirhead. The club offers year-round golfing on meticulously designed courses, each stretching over 7,000 yards and rated as par 72. The Palm Course is particularly renowned for its stunning desert oasis atmosphere, featuring panoramic mountain views, sparkling lakes, and water hazards on 10 holes. Signature hole number 9 of the Palm Course has even been recognized by Golf Illustrated as one of the top 18 water holes in America, adding to the club's prestige. The Pine Course complements the Palm with its own unique challenges and beauty. The club provides diverse tee options, including men’s, seniors’, and ladies’ tees, making golf accessible and enjoyable for players of varying skill levels. Beyond the courses, the facilities include a fully stocked pro shop, one of the largest putting greens in Southwest Arizona, a grass driving range, and a bunkered chipping green. The clubhouse restaurant offers breakfast and lunch with outdoor patio seating, perfect for relaxation after a round. McCormick Ranch Golf Club is also a popular event venue, well-equipped for weddings and banquets, offering an indoor/outdoor experience with stunning sunset views. This makes it an excellent place for friends to meet, socialize, and enjoy golf in a beautiful desert setting.
Here's what people think of McCormick Ranch Golf Club
As of recent, McCormick Ranch Golf Club holds a 4-star rating based on 1175 reviews.
McCormick Ranch Golf Club holds an average rating of around 4.0 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews, reflecting a mix of positive and negative guest experiences. Many reviewers praise the club's scenic courses, particularly the Palm Course’s beautiful water features and mountain vistas. The quality of the courses’ design, the variety of tee options, and the experienced teaching staff receive commendations. Guests also appreciate the well-stocked pro shop, the helpful and courteous staff, and the excellent event services, especially for weddings, where the staff’s professionalism and flexibility are noted. The food quality and efficient service at events have received high marks as well. However, some negative reviews focus on course conditions and value concerns. Reviewers have mentioned brown patches on the fairways, subpar greens compared to other Scottsdale courses, and higher green fees that don’t seem justified by the maintenance level. A few guests expressed frustration with the overall upkeep of the courses, feeling it detracted from the golfing experience. In conclusion, while McCormick Ranch Golf Club offers a memorable golf setting with strong amenities and service for social events, some visitors have found that course maintenance and value for price are areas that could improve to enhance overall satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Edward Scott
McCormick Ranch Golf Club is a beautiful place to play a round. The course is super well kept and has great views all around. The greens were smooth and the layout was fun but still challenging. I played with some friends and we all had a blast. The staff was friendly and helped us get checked in fast. The clubhouse has good food and cold drinks, which was a nice bonus. It wasn’t too crowded and we were able to play at a good pace. The weather was perfect and made the experience even better. I’ll definitely come back again soon. Great place for golfers of all levels.
Lorien Spilkin
Came with my friend for a walk around as a venue. The views are nice and it’s lovely to have a pond, I’m sure this would look nice in pictures. The actual venue for me personally, is too brown… but I’m sure once there is decor that it would take your eye away from that. The golfers look like they are having a good time too.
Johanna Haygood
The most wonderful venue we could ask for to make our Desert Pastel Disco Dream come to life! Melissa - thank you so much for your kindness, flexibility, and support making our wedding so special. We are forever grateful
Mark Weiler
Had an awesome experience at McCormick Ranch Golf Club! The course was in great shape—lush fairways, smooth greens, and the views were absolutely beautiful. It’s the perfect mix of challenging and fun, and the layout keeps things interesting without being overwhelming. The staff was friendly and professional, and the clubhouse had everything we needed. We also grabbed lunch after our round, and the food was surprisingly great for a golf course! Whether you’re a local or visiting Scottsdale, I definitely recommend booking a tee time here. It’s a great spot for a round with friends or even hosting an event.
Kevin Coble
Update: Read just the golf reviews here, not including the venue. Has been 4 years and today reminded me of why I don't play here. As a 5, the Palm is a Mickey Mouse course. Almost all front 9 greens are tiered with poor pin locations (some on slopes). Course still isn't in good shape and is more in line with a muni. For what they charge, play elsewhere. Beautiful scenery and the staff is awesome! Unfortunately, the course is just not in very good shape. The tee boxes and fairways are pretty bare. Greens aren't bad but for what they are charging, it just isn't is in great condition. Go across the street and play Camelback!
How to reach McCormick Ranch Golf Club
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Why McCormick Ranch Golf Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McCormick Ranch Golf Club with your friends? Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, McCormick Ranch Golf Club offers a dynamic and scenic backdrop ideal for social gatherings, especially for those who appreciate the blend of outdoor activity and natural beauty. The club features two distinct 18-hole championship courses — the Pine and the Palm — both offering challenging play opportunities that can engage golfers of various skill levels. This variety allows groups to create diverse experiences, making every meetup fresh and exciting. Beyond just golf, the setting itself is an oasis in the desert with panoramic mountain views and picturesque water features, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to bond while enjoying healthy competition and leisure. The availability year-round ensures that no matter the season, your group can gather for an enriching outdoor day together. The venue’s proximity to Old Scottsdale means easy accessibility combined with the charm of a top-tier golf destination, making McCormick Ranch Golf Club an excellent choice to rally, share laughs, make memories, or simply unwind in great company.
What activities can groups enjoy at McCormick Ranch Golf Club? The primary attraction is, undoubtedly, the two championship golf courses: the Pine Course stretching 7,187 yards and the Palm Course measuring 7,044 yards. Both courses, designed by renowned architect Desmond Muirhead in the early 1970s, showcase thoughtful layouts that incorporate natural desert landscapes including water hazards and palm-lined fairways. Water comes into play on 10 holes on the Palm Course alone, adding an element of strategic play and visual appeal—highlighted by the much-praised signature ninth hole, recognized among Golf Illustrated’s Top 18 Water Holes of America. These courses cater not just to serious golfers but also to groups of mixed abilities with a range of tee boxes including men’s, seniors’, and ladies’ tees. This inclusiveness makes McCormick Ranch ideal for diverse groups, allowing everyone a fair shot at an enjoyable round. Beyond golf, the club supports social activities with its clubhouse, an on-site restaurant serving food and drinks, and a pro shop stocked for equipment needs and rentals — including TaylorMade SIM2 clubs for those who don’t want to bring their own gear. There are also facilities such as a driving range and showers, enhancing the comfort and convenience for groups spending extended time at the club.
Why is McCormick Ranch Golf Club perfect for group meetups? First, the dual-course layout enables flexibility in scheduling tee times that accommodate larger parties without overcrowding. Groups can split between the Pine and Palm courses or rotate play across different days, turning a simple meetup into an extended golf getaway. The scenic environment, characterized by sparkling lakes and sweeping mountain vistas, offers excellent opportunities for socializing outside of active play, such as relaxing on the clubhouse patio or sharing meals in a welcoming, casual setting. Additionally, the courses are open 365 days a year, so planning is never constrained by seasonal closures, making it easy to find times that fit everyone’s calendar. For groups seeking to celebrate special occasions or casual getaways, the blend of challenging golf and comfortable amenities fosters an atmosphere conducive to both competition and camaraderie. Even those less engaged with golf will appreciate the beautiful surroundings, the quality of service, and the laid-back ambiance, which make each visit feel like a mini retreat. Parcels of open space and thoughtfully maintained greens encourage group interaction and shared enjoyment of the sport and nature alike.
How does McCormick Ranch Golf Club accommodate different skill levels and interests in a group? The club’s courses are thoughtfully designed for accessibility to a wide range of players. With distinct tee options tailored to men, women, and seniors, the difficulty can be adjusted to match player experience and physical ability. Either course offers an enjoyable challenge with hazards and layout variety that keeps even seasoned golfers on their toes while remaining approachable for beginners. For non-golfers or those who prefer to watch rather than play, the clubhouse facilities offer a relaxed environment to socialize and enjoy refreshments while catching up with friends. The presence of a pro shop with knowledgeable staff also means groups can receive advice, lessons, or rental equipment, smoothing the way for newcomers to the sport. These factors make McCormick Ranch not only a destination for avid golfers but also a place where diverse groups with varying interests can spend quality time together. The club’s welcoming atmosphere ensures everyone feels included, enhancing the collective experience during meetups.
What special features make McCormick Ranch Golf Club stand out? One of the most notable aspects is the historical and aesthetic value of the Palm Course, tracked by its designer Desmond Muirhead’s vision and the course’s reputation in professional circles, including hosting events like the Scottsdale Swing on the Canadian Tour. The ninth hole on the Palm Course, famously recognized as a top water hole in the U.S., is a distinctive feature that adds prestige and a memorable challenge to any round. The lush landscaping with significant water elements contrasted against the desert environment also provides a refreshing visual and tactical dynamic to play. The club’s commitment to year-round operations means that groups can rely on consistent course availability, a critical factor when planning larger meetups or trips over several days. While some recent reviews have noted areas for improvement in course condition and service, the club remains a popular choice in Scottsdale for its location, course variety, and overall ambiance. For groups who value both the technical challenge and the social experience, these signature features make McCormick Ranch a compelling meetup spot.
How do ancillary amenities contribute to the group experience at McCormick Ranch Golf Club? Beyond the fairways and greens, the clubhouse plays a vital role in supporting group activities. It features a full-service restaurant and bar, perfect for post-game relaxation or casual gatherings throughout the day. Groups can enjoy a shared meal or drinks as part of their meetup, enhancing social bonds and providing a comfortable setting to celebrate achievements or simply unwind. The presence of showers and locker rooms adds convenience, especially for guests coming from work or those traveling to Scottsdale specifically for the event. The pro shop not only supplies equipment but also enhances the experience by offering expert advice and the option to rent premium clubs, eliminating barriers for visitors who might not travel with their gear. The driving range invites groups to warm up before a round or enjoy informal practice sessions together. Every element combines to create a comprehensive venue suited for full-day events where participants engage in sport, food, and fellowship — altogether making for a memorable gathering place.
What should groups consider when planning their meetup at McCormick Ranch Golf Club? Given the club’s dual-course structure and year-round playability, groups should ideally plan tee times in advance to ensure availability, especially on weekends or holidays when demand peaks. Communication with the club about current course conditions is advisable since some reviews have mentioned ongoing maintenance or construction affecting parts of the courses at times. Being aware of the variety of tee options helps in arranging balanced teams that accommodate skill differences and physical comfort, maximizing enjoyment. Groups might also want to coordinate meals or social times at the clubhouse to enrich the day’s social aspect beyond golf alone. Considering equipment rentals in advance can streamline organization, especially for members who do not have their own clubs. Finally, leveraging the location’s proximity to central Scottsdale opens options for extended meetups, including dinner outings or other entertainment, making the day or weekend an all-encompassing experience for friends and family alike.
In summary, McCormick Ranch Golf Club stands out as a versatile and scenic venue ideal for rallying with friends or family. Its dual championship courses offer varied and engaging golf experiences that can accommodate players across skill levels. Complemented by clubhouse amenities and the stunning desert landscape, this Scottsdale gem provides a compelling setting for group meetups centered on sport, relaxation, and social connection. Whether you seek competitive rounds, casual play, or simply a beautiful place to gather, McCormick Ranch delivers a well-rounded environment to create lasting memories.