When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Wildwood Green Golf Club
Why Wildwood Green Golf Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wildwood Green Golf Club, located at 3000 Ballybunion Way in Raleigh, North Carolina, offers an exceptional golf experience for players of all skill levels. Established in 1986 and redesigned in 1996 by renowned architect John LaFoy, this 18-hole, par 70 course stretches approximately 6,500 yards from the back tees. It blends a challenging layout with playability, making it an inviting place for both avid golfers and casual players. The course features a variety of tees, allowing golfers to select a length suitable for their ability. The well-maintained Champion Bermuda greens and fairways, accompanied by generous landing areas, provide both beauty and challenge, with strategically placed trees and traps to test skills. Beyond the course itself, Wildwood Green offers excellent amenities, including a driving range, putting green, chipping area, a golf shop stocked with quality equipment and apparel, and comfortable clubhouse facilities with locker rooms and a snack bar. The atmosphere is welcoming and social, ideal for meeting up with friends or engaging in friendly competition. The staff provide award-winning customer service, helping create a true club feeling that members and visitors appreciate. Additionally, golf carts equipped with GPS tablets and recently renovated cart paths enhance the overall experience. With a year-round season and a reputation for strong community and playing conditions, Wildwood Green Golf Club is a standout destination in North Raleigh for a memorable round of golf and camaraderie.
Here's what people think of Wildwood Green Golf Club
As of recent, Wildwood Green Golf Club holds a 4.2-star rating based on 236 reviews.
Reviews from golfers consistently praise Wildwood Green Golf Club for its enjoyable and challenging course layout, catering to a diverse range of playing skills. Users highlight the well-maintained greens and fairways made of Champion Bermuda grass, which drain well even in adverse weather. The course’s design balances skill challenges with playability, resulting in positive experiences for both novices and seasoned players. Many reviewers mention the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, from junior to senior members, fostering a strong community feel. High points frequently noted include the clean, GPS-equipped carts, renovated cart paths, and comprehensive practice facilities such as the driving range and putting green. The clubhouse and grill facilities are also appreciated for their comfort and service. On the positive side, reviewers commend the courteous, knowledgeable, and helpful staff who contribute significantly to the club’s enjoyable environment. Negative feedback, while less common, occasionally centers on temporary course conditions such as during green aeration periods or after wet weather, when play can be slightly affected. Some comments suggest that certain amenities could see improvements or that the pace of play may occasionally feel slow. Overall, feedback is strongly positive, with many recommending Wildwood Green as a great value and a place that successfully blends challenging golf in a welcoming and comfortable setting. The club’s commitment to maintaining quality and providing a first-class experience is evident in the consistent high ratings and member loyalty.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sam DeFranceschi
Wildwood is truly a gem. The layout is exciting and demanding but also fair. The conditions of the grounds are world class especially the green complexes which offer fair and fast but often subtle breaks. Lookout for tons of blind water and red stakes you didn't even know were there. All in all just a fantastic experience from the staff all the way to the cafe, this place is a wonderful place to spend the day. Highly recommend.
Tom McSweeney
It is an 18 hole golf course, but you can choose to play only 9, at a reduced rate. The course is well maintained, for example, they reworked all the sand traps last year - reworked the drainage and replaced the sand. It's not the longest course (only 2 par-5s) but the greens are fast and quite undulating. And it is very conveniently located, near the intersection of Creedmoor road and I540.
Chris Okain
Great course. Greens were consistent and fast. Fairways and bunkers were in great shape. Couple of tee boxes could've been better and the price is a bit steep at certain hours and certain days. Worth visiting at least once!
R S
I wasn’t planning to write a review but today a friend asked if we should go back to this course again this weekend and I said absolutely not. Then I happened to read another review describing the exact same experience I had which made me realize this isn’t just a one-time issue. So here I am sharing mine. I had two very disappointing visits to this course. The first time I booked through GolfNow and went with three other women. Each of us paid 55 dollars in cash at the clubhouse as listed. But then we were suddenly asked to pay an extra 1.23 or 1.28 dollars for tax which had never been mentioned during booking. We reluctantly paid it but the worst part was when I was supposed to get 2 cents in change the staff smirked and said “You really want 2 cents?” and didn’t return it. It felt rude unprofessional and honestly just petty. They were eager to collect every dollar yet refused to return even a couple of cents to the customer. The attitude was more upsetting than the amount itself. Since there were four of us they pocketed 8 cents not a lot of money but very telling. A few days later the same group of four women returned to play again also booked through GolfNow. I collected 55 dollars in cash from each friend and went to the clubhouse to pay for all four of us. But again they added an unexpected 1.23 to 1.28 dollars per person in extra fees at the counter. This means I ended up covering the extra cost for everyone. It wasn’t about the money. It was the dishonesty and lack of transparency that really bothered me. We had a confirmed price through GolfNow but the course still added hidden charges at the last minute as if no one would notice or care. This kind of behavior feels sneaky and disrespectful to customers. Most golfers wouldn’t argue over a dollar or two but no one likes feeling taken advantage of. I will not be coming back to this course and I would not recommend it to anyone who values fair treatment and professionalism. >
Jay Choi
I booked a tee time through GolfNow for $55 in green fees. However, when I arrived at the course, the pro shop charged me an additional $1.23, stating it was tax. As a CPA, I am aware that the sales tax rate in Raleigh, NC 27613 is 7.25%. Considering that green fees are typically non-taxable, I suspect that the additional $1.23 was tax applied to the golf cart rental fee of $16.97. Most golf courses on GolfNow include taxes in their advertised prices. This was the first time I’ve encountered an unexpected extra charge at the course. In my opinion, the course should have incorporated the tax into the total amount charged through GolfNow. Asking for additional payment at check-in, even a small amount, can leave a negative impression and undermine trust in the GolfNow booking platform. Furthermore, when I requested a receipt, the staff did not provide a clear explanation and seemed evasive, which only added to the frustration. Regardless of whether the tax charge was technically accurate, I believe this kind of experience can cause discomfort for customers and should be taken into consideration for future improvement.
How to reach Wildwood Green Golf Club
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Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Wildwood Green Golf Club promises a day filled with enjoyment, challenge, and relaxation in a picturesque setting designed for all skill levels. This club stands out not merely as a golf course but as a social hub where camaraderie and sport thrive side by side. The lush rolling greens and wooded surrounds create a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with friends away from the bustle of everyday life. The club’s layout, redesigned by acclaimed architect John LaFoy, strikes an ideal balance—offering challenge without frustration, making it enjoyable for both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike. With seven different tees to cater to various abilities, all players in your group can compete fairly or just enjoy the game at their own pace. Beyond golf, the welcoming clubhouse, fully stocked golf shop, and excellent event support enhance your day, ensuring your group’s every need is addressed, from equipment to refreshments. Whether it’s for a casual meetup, a competitive tournament, or a celebration gathering, Wildwood Green Golf Club offers a top-tier backdrop that makes group meetups memorable and rewarding.
What activities does Wildwood Green Golf Club offer for group meetups?
Wildwood Green is much more than a golf course; it is a full-service club with a wide range of activities aimed at group enjoyment. First and foremost is golf itself, with an 18-hole, par 70 course stretching 6,500 yards, welcoming players of all experience levels through its multiple sets of tees. This makes it perfect for groups with mixed skills, from beginners to golf champions. In addition to the course, the club boasts extensive practice facilities, including a driving range, three putting greens, two chipping areas, and practice bunkers, allowing groups to warm up or improve their skills together. The presence of a dedicated golf academy, including plans for a lesson bay and simulators, means that groups can book lessons or participate in instructional sessions, enhancing both the fun and skills during their meetup. Those interested in youth activities can involve juniors in the PGA Junior League or Operation 36 junior programs, making it ideal for family gatherings. Off the course, the clubhouse offers a snack bar, a freestanding pavilion for socials or celebrations, locker rooms, and a golf shop stocked with high-quality apparel and equipment, allowing groups to relax, dine, and shop effortlessly. Its organizational structure also supports over 100 member golf and social events annually, including championships and themed gatherings, providing ample opportunities for fun competitions or casual socializing.
Why is Wildwood Green Golf Club perfect for hosting groups and meetups?
The environment at Wildwood Green is carefully crafted to accommodate groups, making it an exceptional venue for hosting meetups with friends or family. The combination of professional management, PGA-certified instructors, and a full-time events team ensures that every gathering flows smoothly and meets high standards. The clubhouse and freestanding pavilion serve as excellent spaces for post-round celebrations or casual meetups, equipped to handle groups of many sizes in comfort. The club caters to diverse group needs with no food and beverage minimums, making it flexible for budgets and plans — whether you prefer a light snack or a full meal. Accessibility is also simple, with an online tee time booking system featuring a 15-day advance booking window exclusive to members, which easily accommodates group scheduling to maximize playtime together. The availability of rental carts, club storage, golf lockers, and repair services reduces logistical hassle for your entire group, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the day. Moreover, the course’s layout respects the balance between challenge and playability, meaning groups can enjoy a fun, engaging round without prolonged delays or frustration.
What makes the golf experience at Wildwood Green special for groups?
Wildwood Green has cultivated a unique golfing experience that emphasizes quality and inclusivity — two key aspects when organizing group events. The course’s Champion Bermuda Grass greens, updated in 2017, provide a pristine playing surface that not only looks beautiful but plays true, elevating the quality of every putt and approach shot. The design allows for generous landing areas coupled with strategically placed hazards to test your game without overly punishing newcomers, which keeps the mood light and enjoyable within the group. With seven sets of tees, everyone from scratch golfers to beginners can find a comfortable challenge level, allowing groups to pair off competitively or casually. Members and guests benefit from broad support, including a full-time starters program and ranger program, to maintain pace of play and assist where needed, which is vital during busy group outings to keep things running smoothly. The golf shop, stocked with major brand equipment and apparel, along with professional club fitting and repair services, ensures your gear is always in top condition, making your day hassle-free. The inclusivity of multiple events throughout the year fosters a strong community spirit, ideal for groups wanting to engage in tournaments or social golf.
How does Wildwood Green support group social and family events beyond golf?
Wildwood Green Golf Club is designed not just as a sports venue but as a social destination that welcomes families and groups with a variety of non-golf activities and amenities. Its spacious clubhouse and freestanding pavilion provide the perfect setting for celebrations such as birthday parties, reunions, or casual gatherings—featuring room for dining, socializing, and event hosting in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The club organizes frequent social events and tournaments, encouraging group interaction and shared experiences beyond the fairways. For families, the club’s youth programs, like the PGA Junior League and Operation 36, allow children and teens to engage in golf education and play, making it easier for parents and friends to host meaningful family-centric meetups. Their inclusive welcoming atmosphere is bolstered by attentive staff and golf professionals ready to assist with group planning and event coordination. Convenient amenities, such as locker rooms, rental services, and equipment shops, make planning effortless so your group can focus on fun and fellowship. These features combine to make Wildwood Green an outstanding place to convene any social gathering that includes golf lovers and novices alike.
What membership benefits enhance the group meetup experience at Wildwood Green?
For those considering recurring group meetups, Wildwood Green Golf Club offers an array of membership benefits that amplify the convenience, cost-effectiveness, and overall enjoyment of communal gatherings. Members enjoy discounted green fees and reduced guest rates, making it more affordable to invite friends and family regularly. The club provides referral programs and a non-assessable membership structure, ensuring financial transparency and value. Members also receive priority tee time booking with a 15-day advance window, essential for planning group rounds especially during peak times. Additional perks include a 15% discount on merchandise in the golf shop, club storage options, and reduced GHIN handicap fees, all of which support both casual and competitive golfers within your group. Special interest groups — such as women’s programs, men’s leagues, and senior men’s leagues — provide structured opportunities for social play and tournaments, which can be great for organizing regular group events or for members to invite guests with common interests. Wildwood Green's commitment to quality management and PGA professional oversight means that members experience top-tier service and care, enhancing every aspect of the group golf and social experience.
In summary, Wildwood Green Golf Club offers an ideal environment for friends and family to rally around golf and social events. Its combination of a stunning, inclusive course, first-rate facilities, abundant group-friendly amenities, and strong membership benefits creates the perfect setting to host memorable meetups that cater to diverse preferences and skill levels. Whether it’s an energetic round on the course, skill-building at the practice areas, or enjoying the clubhouse’s social vibe, Wildwood Green transforms any group gathering into a truly exceptional occasion.