Scottsdale, AZ is the premier resort golf destination in the continental United States. The 75+ public and semi-private courses break cleanly into three tiers, and understanding which tier fits your goals determines whether Scottsdale is a great trip or an expensive disappointment.
Scottsdale Green Fees by Tier (2026)
| Course | Weekday 18 | Weekend 18 | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPC Scottsdale Champions Course | $120 | $150 | 4.5 ★ |
Verified from course websites · Showing 1 course with published pricing · Verify before booking
Tier 1: Municipal Courses
Scottsdale and the surrounding City of Phoenix operate several municipal courses that offer solid playing conditions at a fraction of resort pricing. Paradise Valley Golf Course and Papago Golf Course (4.2 stars) are the standouts — both allow unrestricted walking and are genuinely well-maintained by municipal standards. These are where local golfers play most of their rounds. See current rates in the pricing table above.
Tier 2: Mid-Range Resort Courses
Kierland Golf Club (4.2 stars) is the best value at this tier — a Scott Miller design attached to the Kierland Commons development with consistently strong conditions. Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor and Talon courses) has hosted collegiate and professional events and remains one of the most popular public facilities in the Scottsdale market. Both courses drop significantly in summer — among the best value plays in Arizona golf.
Tier 3: Premium Resort Courses
This is what Scottsdale is known for globally. We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Cholla and Saguaro courses) consistently earns the highest ratings in the market — the Saguaro course at 4.7 stars is among the best-rated public golf courses in Arizona.
TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course— home of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended professional golf tournament in the world. The 16th hole “stadium” setting is one of the iconic golf experiences in the sport.
Troon North (Monument and Pinnacle courses by Tom Weiskopf) is the architectural standout — two desert courses carved through natural Sonoran Desert terrain without significant earthmoving. The best pure golf design in Scottsdale at a price below the TPC. Check current rates above.
Summer in Scottsdale: When the Math Changes
Peak-season Scottsdale golf is expensive. Summer Scottsdale golf is a different calculation entirely. Premium courses drop 40–60% from peak rates. These are legitimate resort courses at semi-private prices. The requirement: tee off by 7 AM to finish before temperatures hit 110°F. For golfers willing to set a 5:30 AM alarm, June–August is when Scottsdale delivers its best value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TPC Scottsdale green fee?
TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course (WM Phoenix Open venue) peaks in the December–April season; the Champions Course is priced lower. Summer rates (June–September) drop significantly across both courses. Book directly at tpc.com. See current rates in the pricing table above.
What is the best golf course in Scottsdale?
We-Ko-Pa Saguaro Course (4.7 stars, Scott Miller design) consistently earns the highest ratings of any public-access course in Scottsdale. Troon North Monument Course (Tom Weiskopf, 4.5 stars) is the best pure architectural experience. TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course is the most famous. For value, Kierland Golf Club and Grayhawk Talon deliver the best quality-to-price ratio.
When is Scottsdale golf cheapest?
Summer (June–September) drops premium courses 40–60% from peak pricing. We-Ko-Pa, Troon North, and Grayhawk all become genuinely affordable. Early morning tee times (before 7 AM) are required to finish before extreme heat. Book 1–2 weeks in advance even in summer for the best courses.
Is Scottsdale golf worth the price?
For destination golfers who prioritize course quality, yes — Scottsdale's premium tier offers some of the best-conditioned and best-designed resort golf in the world. For budget-conscious players, Phoenix municipal courses (Papago, Encanto) offer solid value nearby. Summer pricing makes premium courses accessible at roughly half the peak-season rate.