New Orleans is a compact golf market with a distinctive character — flat, tree-lined courses set among bayous, live oaks, and the unique landscape of southeast Louisiana. The market is anchored by City Park Golf Course, one of the oldest and most affordable public facilities in the South, and complemented by several semi-private clubs accessible to daily-fee players. Green fees are consistently among the lowest of any major Southern city, making it an excellent value destination for golfers visiting the area.
New Orleans Green Fees by Tier (2026)
| Course | Weekday 18 | Weekend 18 | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timberlane Golf & Recreation | $41 | $61 | 4.3 ★ |
| Joseph M. Bartholomew Municipal Golf Course | $43 | $43 | 4.2 ★ |
| Grand Ridge Golf Club | $55 | $70 | 4.5 ★ |
| Stonebridge Golf Club of New Orleans | $61 | $71 | 4.3 ★ |
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City Park Golf Course: The Heart of New Orleans Golf
City Park Golf Course sits inside the 1,300-acre City Park — one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The course has operated continuously since 1902, making it one of the oldest public golf facilities in the South. It is the default recommendation for any golfer visiting New Orleans: genuinely affordable, centrally located, and steeped in local character. See current rates in the pricing table above.
Audubon Park Golf Course
Audubon Park Golf Course is a compact 18-hole executive layout in the Uptown neighborhood adjacent to Audubon Zoo — the most accessible course for visitors staying in the Garden District or French Quarter. It plays as an executive layout (shorter yardage, mix of par 3s and 4s) rather than a full championship track, making it ideal for a quick round between other New Orleans activities.
New Orleans Golf by Season
New Orleans is playable year-round. Winter (December–February) is mild (50–65°F) and sees the lowest green fees. Spring (March–May) is the best season — warm, dry, and with excellent course conditions. Summer is hot and extremely humid, with afternoon thunderstorms from June through September. Fall (October–November) brings relief from the summer heat with some of the year's best playing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best public golf course in New Orleans?
City Park Golf Course is the most established and recommended public course in New Orleans — affordable, historic (operating since 1902), and centrally located inside City Park. It is the default choice for visiting golfers. See current rates in the pricing table above.
Can you play golf year-round in New Orleans?
Yes — New Orleans' warm climate makes golf playable 12 months a year. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 40°F. The main constraints are summer heat/humidity (June–September) and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Morning tee times are the best approach in summer.
What are green fees like in New Orleans compared to other Southern cities?
New Orleans has some of the lowest green fees of any major Southern golf market. The flat terrain and city-operated courses keep rates well below comparable markets in Florida, the Carolinas, or Texas resort areas.
Is New Orleans worth a golf trip?
New Orleans works best as a golf add-on to a broader visit — the city's food, music, and culture are the primary draw, with 2–3 rounds of affordable golf as a complement. It is not a destination golf market like Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach, but the value is excellent for what you get.