Dallas is known for many things: cattle, cowboys (football and the real thing), and BBQ. But "The Big D" isn't all belt buckles and brisket. The city is growing its reputation as a golf getaway replete with high-end, resort quality courses and daily fee gems.
And as any business traveler knows, hundreds of direct flights, daily make getting to Dallas as easy as a flat three foot putt. The winter months bring wide temperature swings, but "have clubs will travel" types who can break away on short notice can enjoy highs in the 60s and even 70s on occasion.
Where to Play
Old American Golf ClubOld American is the work of acclaimed designer Tripp Davis and PGA TOUR star and hometown hero Justin Leonard. Inspired by the 'Golden Age' of golf course architecture (1911 - 1937), Old American's natural contours, hazard styles, native grasses and green shapes were influenced by such masterpieces as Shinnecock Hills, National Golf Links, Prairie Dunes and Crystal Downs.
The course is quickly becoming known as "the place the pros play." Thanks to a 7,000-yard-plus layout with the chops to host a TOUR event, Old American is a regular stop for many DFW-based pros. Nathan Green, winner of the 2009 RBC Canadian Open, holds the course record. Green fired a 4-under-par 67 in February, breaking the previous record of 68 held by Leonard and K.J. Choi. Other pros playing Old American include Y.E. Yang, Rod Pampling, John Senden, Steven Bowditch, and Paul Stankowski.
More Information: (972) 370-4653, www.oldamericangolfclub.com
The Tribute
Situated next to Old American in The Tribute Resort Community, The Tribute is a true links golf experience simulating some of the most famous and challenging holes from renowned Scottish courses such as St. Andrews, Troon and Prestwick. In addition to offering an experience unlike any other in the Metroplex. The Tribute also has a quaint guest house with seven suites for traveling golfers.
More information: (972) 370-5465, www.thetribute.com
Where to Stay
NYLOThis chic boutique hotel developed by South Side steward Matthews Southwest opened in 2012 amid palpable buzz. The 102 year-old building in the trendy neighborhood is an architectural all-star in Dallas' lodging lineup. Walls are adorned with works from local artists, and the rooftop "Soda Bar" with its infinity pool and casual grill and has become one of the most popular "hangs" in the city. The hotel's 76 guest rooms feature original concrete floors and exposed ceilings.
For more information and reservations: www.nylohotels.com>
Omni Dallas Hotel
The new Omni Dallas Hotel is smack-dab in the middle of downtown and provides easy access to restaurants, shops and entertainment. Featuring more than 1,000 guest rooms and dozens of luxury suites, the hotel is Dallas through-and-through (Larry Hagman and Linda Gray from the television show "Dallas" were even on-hand for the opening).
The hotel also provides on-site dining and entertainment. Golfers will want to be sure to check out Bob's Steak & Chop House, where Texas-sized steaks, shrimp and deserts are plentiful. The Owner's Box is an interactive sports bar with a 16-foot television that's sure to be showing the Cowboys, Mavs, Rangers, and any other Texas team.
More information: www.omnihotels.com/findahotel/dallashotel
