Nestled deep in the southeastern region of the United States is the underrated golf destination of Mississippi. Though it may not be among the most popular golf hubs in the country, the Magnolia State has plenty to offer to avid players in terms of golf-related activities, both on and off-course. With a densely forested terrain and lots of wide-open rural spaces, the clean, crisp air, and blue skies for miles has attracted the attention of some of the most distinguished architects nationwide. Inspired by the canvas of lush, grassy lowlands and plateaus, highlighted by crystal clear rivers, it’s no wonder the state boasts of more than 150 golf courses scattered throughout the area. Though there was little interest in the sport among residents in the past, the rising popularity of golf has led to a steadily-building buzz that has also affected this state in recent years. Over the last few years, the state has blossomed as a premier golf destination, with its newest and most modern courses not only recognized as the best in the state but also in the American South. Examples that come to mind include the Tom Fazio original at Fallen Oak Golf Club, Seymour Dunn’s Obra Maestra at Laurel Country Club, Jack Niklaus’ renowned Annandale Course, and Gil Hanse’s Mossy Oak showpiece. Though the climate is relatively mild and well-suited for golf, Mississippi has also been known to suffer strong winds, severe rainfall, and even the occasional thunderstorms in the past. Hence, travelling and resident golfers alike sometimes find themselves in terrible weather and poor playing conditions making it near-impossible for them to spend even just a few rounds on the course. Fortunately, there are several first-rate indoor golf facilities and virtual golf simulators located all over the state to remedy such situations. Often equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced simulators that faithfully replicate some of the world’s greatest championship courses, players get to enjoy the authentic feel of being out on the course without having to leave the comfort of the indoors.Enumerated below are the best virtual/indoor golf facilities in the state of Mississippi.
Best Golf Courses in (Province/State)
Location: 24384 Club House Drive, Pass Christian, MS 39571Located in Pass Christian, Mississippi, The Oaks Golf Club is set amidst the towering timberlands and natural wetlands of the Gulf Coast. The expertly-crafted 18-hole, par-72 parkland layout is beloved for its wild, untamed greens and strategically laid-out sand bunkers to provide golfers with equal parts challenge and playability. The Oaks Golf Club, however, has much more to offer than the widely-acclaimed Gil Morgan-designed layout.Home to The Oaks Golf Academy, the establishment is also one of the premier golf training centers in the state. It is spearheaded by PGA Professional Russ Bloom, a seasoned golfer, and certified golf instructor for over 10 years. Russ offers private and group lessons to players of all ages and provides professional instruction on the fundamentals of the game as well as a player’s swing, short game, putting, course management, specialty shots, and even tips on how to improve their mental approach to the sport. Along with a competent coach, players at The Oaks Golf Club are also provided with the latest in virtual golf and simulator technology, on top of the world-class indoor golf facilities. Their virtual golf center is equipped with the most advanced FlightScope Launch Monitor, a V1 video system, and a high-speed, motion-capture camera – all to accurately analyze and assess a golfer’s swing. With the help of these high-tech amenities, you will be able to know vital data points, such as launch angle and ball speed, to help you refine and improve your game. The Oaks Golf Club has some of the best indoor resources available to quickly turn beginners into a force to be reckoned with out on the course as soon as possible. HoursMon-Sun 6:00 – 6:00 pmContact(228) 452-0909rbloom@theoaksgolfclub.com
Location: 7600 Country Club Circle, Diamondhead, MS 39525Next up is a semi-private golf course with its very own top-notch training center: Diamondhead Country Club. Conveniently located along the state boundary of New Orleans and Mississippi, by the Gulfport at Exit 16 and only minutes away from many of the city’s most popular attractions, Diamondhead Country Club is home to the Golf Academy of Diamondhead. This is an indoor golf practice facility with state-of-the-art technology and a cozy interior design that makes players feel right at home. A perfect alternative during times of terrible outdoor weather, here at the Golf Academy of Diamondhead, golfers can keep their game going strong even during the off-season. Their teaching is geared towards players of all ages regardless of skill level, with special programs designed for adults and junior golfers alike. They have four teaching professionals on-staff who provide one-on-one or group lessons to those who are interested. Other amenities offered include the two 18-hole championship courses, the Cardinal and Pines, designed by Gil Morgan and Earl Stone respectively, making it the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s first and only indoor and outdoor golf academy; an expansive event space that can be rented out for special occasions and private events with an on-site restaurant that serves delectable meals from lunch to dinner. They also serve daily specials and Sunday brunch. If that doesn’t float your boat, they also have another more casual dining option available, the 19th Hole Bar & Grill right beside the pro shop, which hosts Karaoke Nights on Thursdays and offering live entertainment on Friday nights.Contact228-255-3910diamondheadms.org
Location: 1 Mac and Bones Blvd, Pearl, MS 39208Moving on to the miniature golf courses of Mississippi, we have the award-winning Mac N’ Bones Golf & Grill, hailing from Pearl City. An acclaimed 18-hole miniature golf course, it starts off this section of our list on a strong note with its first-rate amenities and accommodating staff who are always more than happy to help you with whatever concern or request that you may have. There’s a full-service restaurant with a small bar on-site which you can enjoy even after hours. They also have private rooms and event spaces that can be rented for special gatherings, with complimentary two rounds of golf, two hours at the Pavilion, and four tables and a drink of your choice. With a “Bring Your Own Party” policy, guests are free to bring their own food, drinks, and cake, with a lively round of mini golf to look forward to, courtesy of the Mac N’ Bones Golf & Grill.HoursMon – Thu 10:00 – 9:00 pmFri – Sat10:00 – 12:00 amSun 1:00 – 10:00 pmContact601-932-4449info@macandbones.com
Location: 9592, 2280 Lakeland Dr, Flowood, MS 39232Following in the trend of kid-friendly, fun-filled indoor golf options is Seasons Mini Golf, a 36-hole miniature golf course situated in Flowood, Mississippi. Another popular family entertainment venue that’s considered among the best in the state, Seasons Mini Golf flaunts an imaginative, whimsical layout that children will surely – featuring well-known characters like Superman and Darth Vader. There are also some eye-catching and fairly formidable holes that even adults would enjoy. The property was recently renovated under new ownership and now flaunts even more top-notch amenities. Aside from the putt-putt course, there’s also a tennis table, a snack bar with a shaved ice parlor called Sno Biz, and an indoor playground to keep the kids entertained for hours and hours on end. It comes fully furnished with swings, trampolines, and many more fun surprises for kids and adults alike. Parents might be interested to know that Seasons Mini Golf also has event spaces available for rent for special occasions and children’s parties. You can choose from among four different birthday packages to choose from. If you’re a resident golfer looking for some good old fashioned family fun, head down to Seasons Mini Golf for a memorable time with friends and family. No appointments are needed and the establishment is open seven days a week.HoursMon – Thu 10:00 – 9:00 pmFri – Sat 9:00 – 9:00 pmSun 12:00 – 7:00 pmContact601-939-3393info@seasonsminigolf.com
Location: 1000 Turtle Creek Dr., Hattiesburg, MS 39402Lunar Mini Golf is another quick and easy indoor golf option in Mississippi. A fast-growing brand with 17 branches spread across the southwestern region of the United States with one of them being inside the Turtle Creek Mall of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Setting itself apart from the competition, Lunar Mini Golf is a fun and unique experience as it is an 18-hole blacklight putt-putt course fully decked out in bright fluorescent lights and neon obstacles guarding every hole.HoursMon – Fri 3:00 – 9:00 pmSat 10:00 – 9:00 pmSun 12:00 – 6:00 pmContact601-307-0542hattiesburg@glowminigolf.com
Location: 3528 US-80, Pearl, MS 39208Another indoor mini golf course in Pearl City, The Bounce Palace is a family-oriented entertainment center that specializes as a birthday venue for kids. It’s a great place to start if you want to make youngsters (or any first-timers, really) fall in love with golf. An 18-hole miniature golf course, kids will have plenty of fun as they make their way along the track. Aside from that, there are also a variety of bounce houses on-site for them to play in and interact with other kids. The Bounce Palace specializes in birthday parties and has three rooms that can be rented out for parties or private events and can accommodate 20-30 guests at a time. Just inquire from any of their friendly staff if you’re interested. A day at The Bounce Palace is sure to be filled with indelible memories.HoursMon – Thu 9:00 – 7:00 pmFri 9:00 – 8:00 pmSat 10:00 – 8:00 pmSun 1:00 – 6:00 pmContact601-933-1116
Wrap up
With a stunning, well-preserved landscape of expansive flatlands carpeted by lush, thick forests and flowing blue rivers, Mississippi has caught the eye of golfers as well as golf course architects from all over the country. Such widespread acclaim and national recognition are far from unwarranted as the Magnolia State is home to some of the finest contemporary golf courses in all of the southern region – think Tom Fazio’s Fallen Oak and Jack Niklaus’ Annandale.However, local and visiting golfers also clamor for an alternative during times when weather conditions are unfavorable or when most courses are closed during the off-season. Fortunately, there are a number of indoor/virtual golf options available all over the state to remedy such situations. Most of the names featured here tend to be either simulator centers within golf clubs or miniature golf courses, so this is by no means a definitive list. However, these are some of the most prominent facilities in the state.
