When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Raven Golf Club
Why Raven Golf Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Raven Golf Club in Phoenix, Arizona, stands out as a top-notch golf destination celebrated for its spectacular championship layout and exceptional amenities. Set in the scenic shadows of South Mountain, this par-72, 7,078-yard course designed by Gary Panks and David Graham combines lush rolling fairways with an impressive assortment of bunkers and water features that challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. The club features five different tee boxes, ensuring accessibility and enjoyment for beginners and experienced players alike. Beyond the immaculate course conditions — a remarkable achievement in the desert environment — Raven boasts an expansive double-sided grass driving range, a large putting green, a chipping area, and a golf academy with custom fitting services. Its manicured greens and welcoming staff contribute to the course’s reputation for unparalleled guest experience, often credited with having the #1 guest service in North America. Along with golf, the club offers excellent dining options and a picturesque air-conditioned event pavilion overlooking the 18th hole, making it a great spot to connect with friends either on or off the course. Conveniently located only five miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and near Scottsdale, Raven Golf Club is highly accessible and consistently highly rated for its quality and ambiance.
Here's what people think of Raven Golf Club
As of recent, Raven Golf Club holds a 4.5-star rating based on 685 reviews.
Reviews of Raven Golf Club generally highlight the pristine course conditions and excellent customer service. Many guests appreciate the lush, green fairways and the strategic challenge offered by the varied bunkering and multi-tiered greens. Positive reviews frequently mention the club’s well-maintained facilities, the helpful and friendly staff, and the enjoyable pace of play, with some noting that despite its popularity, the staff manages course flow effectively. The practice facilities also receive praise, particularly the large putting green and the double-sided grass driving range. Several players commend the variety afforded by multiple tee boxes and enjoy the combination of desert golf and rolling greenery. On the downside, some reviewers have reported that the pace of play can be slow, especially during busy periods, and the afternoon heat in Phoenix can be intense, affecting the overall experience. A few have mentioned hard bunker conditions and occasional interruptions due to weather or course maintenance. Nevertheless, the overwhelming consensus is that Raven Golf Club offers great value, a fair and fun challenge, and a premium golfing experience, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors to the Phoenix area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
TipTheCap
Raven Golf Club is a midwestern style golf course in the desert of Phoenix in the city. The staff was very friendly and the practice facilities are very nice. Just wasn't very impressed with the course was on a guys golf trip and out of the 5 we played least favorite. I would prefer playing AK-Chin S. Dunes. or Estrella just to name a few. Better bang for your buck. The locals raved about this course because like I said its something different than the normal desert course in the area.
Cole Nisson
Raven offers a unique experience in the South Mountain area. The course design is thoughtful, with tree-lined fairways that give it a slightly different feel from the usual desert style. The greens are smooth, and the pace of play is usually good. One of the best parts of Raven is how welcoming it feels—there’s a relaxed atmosphere, but the golf itself is still very polished. It’s a course that works well for golfers of all skill levels, and it’s always in dependable condition.
elle fore
Just in town from Denver. We headed straight for the course. 3pm tee time. Hubby had a great time playing this course. Very picturesque. A little hot in June for a pm tee time. But the weather was perfect in the shade by the time they finished.
Henry Hill
This review is dated for 1-2-25. Course was amazing condition. Beautiful layout, challenging but fair. Fairways are generous. Greens fast. Would play here again. Great pace of play
R Delmar
Very solid golf course continues to be one of my summer value favorites, Makes you feel you are a higher Arizona elevations due to the mature Pine tree lines, great views of South Mountain. Greens were fast and general conditions very good. Three suggestions: Place courtesy water botttles inside the ice coolers at least during the summer months. Plant shade trees near the golf cart larking areas around greens whenever they don't interfere with play in a drastic manner. This would make the course more bearable during summers. Vinyl seats get very hot. Recover the 18th silver tee box.
How to reach Raven Golf Club
None
Website: None
Why Raven Golf Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Raven Golf Club with your friends? Because it offers an exceptional setting that balances challenge, beauty, and camaraderie perfectly for group outings. With a strong 4.5-star rating from 685 reviews, Raven Golf Club is widely recognized not only for its impeccably maintained course but also for the friendly, welcoming environment that makes playing golf with friends or family a truly memorable experience. Whether you are avid golfers or just looking for a fun way to spend quality time together, this course delivers a distinct blend of strategic golf and stunning natural surroundings. Its wide fairways make tee shots forgiving for players of all skill levels, while the challenging bunkers and undulating greens ensure that experienced golfers stay engaged and competitive. The atmosphere promotes social interaction without sacrificing the integrity of the game, making it ideal for casual rounds, friendly tournaments, or special gatherings. Add in excellent amenities like a top-notch practice facility and attentive staff, and Raven Golf Club becomes an outstanding choice to rally your social circle and enjoy a day outdoors filled with sport, laughter, and relaxation.
What activities does Raven Golf Club offer for groups? The primary attraction is its 18-hole championship golf course, which offers a strategic and enjoyable layout designed by renowned architects, featuring rolling fairways, mature pine trees, and water hazards that keep the game dynamic and visually captivating. Players can choose from five different tee boxes, accommodating beginners to advanced players, ensuring everyone in the group feels comfortable and challenged. For those eager to refine their skills, the club boasts one of the Phoenix area's largest and best-maintained putting greens, as well as a dedicated chipping green and a driving range with all-grass tee boxes. This extensive practice facility also includes a golf academy and a True-Spec fitting center, perfect for groups interested in lessons or club fitting sessions as part of their meetup experience. Beyond golf, the club’s on-site grill and restaurant serve as social hubs where groups can relax and enjoy meals or drinks before or after their rounds. The attentive staff enhances the experience, taking care of everything from hydration on the course to ensuring timely pace of play, making group visits smooth and enjoyable.
Why is Raven Golf Club perfect for group meetups? Its combination of beautiful scenery, excellent course conditions, and versatile facilities creates an inviting atmosphere that suits groups seeking both leisure and light competition. The course’s wide fairways allow players of varying levels to enjoy their shots without frustration, making it accessible for novice players without feeling dull for experts. The layout’s strategic bunkering, thoughtfully placed water features, and multi-tiered greens provide enough complexity to keep all golfers mentally engaged, encouraging lively friendly rivalry among friends or family. Additionally, the club is known for its efficient pace of play, often completing rounds in under four hours, which is ideal for groups with busy schedules or those wanting to maximize social time. The staff’s professionalism ensures groups are well cared for, from quick check-ins to helpful on-course service. Moreover, the spacious clubhouse and dining options provide perfect settings for group meals, celebrations, or casual conversations, rounding out the day with comfort and relaxation.
What makes the course layout and design at Raven Golf Club stand out for group golf outings? Designed by Gary Panks and David Graham, the 7,078-yard par-72 course blends traditional golf features with desert influences, creating a visually stunning yet approachable environment. The mature pine trees that line the fairways help frame holes beautifully, giving a sense of intimacy despite the open space. The course features generous landing areas off the tee, allowing groups to play more freely and encouraging confidence in long shots. Meanwhile, the strategic bunkers and undulating greens add complexity when approaching each hole, rewarding precise shot-making and thoughtful play. As the course is located near Phoenix and less than five miles from the airport, it offers convenience for groups traveling from afar or locals looking for a reliable venue. Regular maintenance ensures the course is consistently in great shape, with some seasonal variations in sand conditions for bunkers and green speeds, but overall it remains a pristine and enjoyable layout for groups regardless of skill level.
How does the practice facility enhance the group experience at Raven Golf Club? The extensive practice area is one of the club’s key features, particularly appreciated by groups that want to warm up together or improve their golfing skills through joint practice sessions. The double-sided driving range, completely grassed, permits multiple players to hit balls simultaneously on a surface that closely simulates course conditions. This is supplemented by a large putting green that ranks among the best maintained in the Phoenix metropolitan area, providing ample space for practicing various putting scenarios and group putting games. The smaller chipping green and practice bunker allow players to focus on their short game in a communal, relaxed setting. For those seeking instruction, the presence of the Tour Striker Performance Academy and a fitting center on site offers group clinics, lessons, or club fittings, making it an ideal spot for a group meetup that combines fun with skill development. This blend of practice facilities helps groups spend extended time together, whether competing or supporting each other in improving their game.
What is the dining and social environment like at Raven Golf Club for group gatherings? The Raven’s grill and restaurant provide a welcoming space for groups to unwind after a round or practice session, facilitating socialization over food and drinks. While the food quality has been described as decent, the service and atmosphere receive strong praise, contributing to an overall positive dining experience. Servers are known to be attentive, supporting groups on the course with hydration and refreshments and ensuring the social energy remains high. The dining area offers sufficient seating to accommodate families, friends, or corporate groups looking for a comfortable setting to celebrate milestones or just enjoy casual company. Having a dedicated space to relax and share stories of the round adds an important dimension to meeting at the club, turning a golf outing into a full-day social event. Many visitors cite the warm hospitality and friendly staff interactions as crucial to the club’s appeal for group visits.
How does the value and pricing of Raven Golf Club support group meetups? While the course can be on the pricier side during peak season, the quality of the course and overall experience justifies the rate for most visitors. Prices can be as high as around $125 per round during the busiest times but often drop significantly during afternoon tee times, sometimes to about $69, making it more affordable for larger groups scheduling flexible starts. This pricing structure encourages groups to plan their tee times during less crowded parts of the day, often resulting in faster play and a more relaxed atmosphere. Given the excellent course conditioning, amenities, and service, many golfers find the price well worth the value offered. Group discounts or arrangements can sometimes be explored, especially if booking in advance or during off-peak periods, further enhancing cost-effectiveness for large gatherings. All payments support a facility that is consistently praised for its upkeep and member experience, ensuring groups receive top-tier golf and social amenities for their investment.
What makes the staff and service at Raven Golf Club beneficial for group visitors? Groups often highlight the club’s friendly, professional staff as one of the highlights of their visit. From the moment of arrival, guests experience prompt and courteous check-in, with bag drop and cart assignments handled efficiently to minimize wait times. On-course servers are praised for attentiveness, frequently stopping by to offer drinks, snacks, and support, which is especially valuable in the Phoenix heat. The staff’s focus on pace of play helps large groups stay on schedule, contributing to an enjoyable, stress-free outing. They also assist with accommodating special requests, organizing group tee times, and providing guidance on course navigation or practice facilities. This level of service ensures that groups—from casual social golfers to corporate outings—can focus on enjoying their time together without logistical hassles.
What accessibility and location features make Raven Golf Club ideal for group meetups? Located conveniently within Phoenix, Arizona, and just minutes from the Phoenix airport, the club is highly accessible for both local players and visitors traveling from other cities. This ease of access means groups do not have to spend excessive time traveling and can maximize their time on the course and socializing. The course’s setting in a peaceful, subdivision-like area provides scenic views without feeling enclosed, offering a calm and comfortable environment for groups to gather. Multiple tee time options throughout the day provide flexibility to schedule meetups that suit different group preferences or itineraries. The combination of convenient location, manageable traffic, and serene surroundings makes Raven Golf Club a perfect venue to bring friends and family together for a fun and memorable golf outing.
In summary, Raven Golf Club excels as a destination for groups due to its welcoming atmosphere, beautiful and challenging course, comprehensive practice facilities, quality dining, excellent service, and convenient location. Whether for a casual day out, organized tournament, or skill-building session, the club’s offerings encourage connection, healthy competition, and relaxation, making it an outstanding place to rally with friends or family.