Golfing in Franklin and Williamson County, TN: Public & Private Golf Courses, Stores, Indoor Golf & More
Golf is a favorite pastime for people of all ages. Along with the competitive appeal of the sport, it serves as a great way to enjoy quality time and fresh air with family, friends, and colleagues. Here in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee, resources for golfers are abundant, whether you’re seriously competing or simply playing for the love of the game.
Golf: A Brief History
Although golf can often be thought of as distinctly American, with the United States being the most active modern country in the sport, golf’s origins can be traced back to the eastern coast of Scotland (close to the capital city of Edinburg) in the 15th century. The game began simply—with a pebble and a stick. Players would use a bent stick or club to hit pebbles over sand dunes or around tracks. The game became so popular that, due to a perceived lack of military training in lieu of golf enthusiasm, it was banned by the Scottish parliament of King James II in the year 1497. The Scottish people by in large ignored the ban, and by the early 16th century it’s popularity began to spread throughout Europe. It became the sport of European monarchs, as King James IV of Scotland, King Charles I, and Mary Queen of Scots endorsed the game in their royal circles.
The first golf club, the Gentlemen Golfers of Leith, formed in 1744, officially marking golf as an official, competitive sport. The first 18-hole course was built in St. Andrews, Scotland, in 1764, setting standards for the sport still honored today. Due to incomplete records, its hard to know exactly when and where golf first gained traction in the United States though it’s known that the sport first reached the U.S. in the late 1700s. However, it’s mainstream popularity really began in the 1880s, which saw the advent of some of the earliest and most prestigious golf clubs on this side of the Atlantic.
Public Golf Courses in Franklin & Williamson County, TN
Here in Williamson County, there are a variety of public golf courses that allow open tee times for golfers who are not formally members of a club. This can be convenient for infrequent players or those traveling to the area who simply want to play a round in a new area. The rolling, rural landscape of our county makes the terrain idyllic for golf courses, public and private, that have made a name for themselves here in Middle Tennessee.
Cheekwood Golf Club in Franklin is conveniently located between downtown Franklin and Nashville, offering a 9-hole course for all skill levels. Alongside public tee times, competitively priced membership packages are also available for frequent visitors.
Address: 285 Spencer Creek Roadd Franklin TN, 37069
Franklin Bridge Golf Club is known as the greater Nashville area’s public country club. The 18-hole championship course is picturesque, accompanied by top-notch practice facilities, their on-site restaurant Persimmon Pub, and The Performance Institute. Membership for their River Club is currently full; however, public tee times are always available through their website.
Address: 750 Riverview Drive, Franklin, TN 37064
Lightning Bug Golf Course in College Grove is a public, 9-hole course for golfers of all skill levels. Alongside the serene course nestled in the rural landscape, Lightning Bug Golf Course also offers a putting green, driving range, and a clubhouse. The course is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to dark.
Address: 3140 Old Murfreesboro Road, College Grove, TN
Little Course at Conner Lane offers a flexible, public learning 9-hole course and driving range for golfers of all ages learning about or stepping up their game. The well-maintained course is known to be a favored practice venue for collegiate and amateur golfers in the area. The course is easy to walk and allow for efficient, 90-minute games.
Address: 400 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37069
Towhee Club is a premier local course located in Spring Hill. The 18-hole course was designed by Arnold Palmer and offers an idyllic space for golfers of all skill levels. The club offers public tee times, dynamic prices, and an on-site golf shop. Membership options are also available.
Address: 3901 Kedron Road, Spring Hill, TN 37174
Private Golf Courses in Franklin & Williamson County, TN
Joining a golf or social club can be a great way to find community, experience exclusive amenities, and make the most of the place where you live. While some club memberships in the area are residentially based, it’s good to be aware of options, especially if you’re a frequent player, are considering moving, or are looking for a particular club environment. Aside from course access, club memberships often come with exclusive dining options, private events, additional fitness facilities, and recreational amenities.
Brentwood Country Club is known for its history and charm. The club offers a variety of membership options, including golf memberships and social memberships. The pristine, 18-hole championship golf course opened in 2023 and features gorgeous, rolling fairways. The private club also includes pool, fitness, and clubhouse amenities. Guests of the club are encouraged to comply with club standards and expectations.
Address: 5123 Country Club Drive, Brentwood, TN 37027
Nashville Golf & Athletic Club in Brentwood is a private club that aims to foster a warm, members-focused environment reminiscent on a time when clubs were once thought of as home away from home. Club membership (keep in mind that inquiries are momentarily paused) allows unlimited use of the practice facility and short game area, as well as access to the Championship NGAC, 18-hole Golf Course originally designed for U.S. Open play. The course is known for hosting a vairety of local and regional tournaments.
Address: 1703 Crockett Springs Trail, Brentwood, TN 37027
Old Natchez Country Club in Franklin is a private country club boasting full-service amenities and a casual, friendly atmosphere. Old Natchez Country Club is the oldest club in the area still in operation, and provides a variety of member perks, including unlimited access to sports programs including golf, tennis, swimming, and miscellaneous fitness options. The private golf course dates back to 1882 and is known for its flat, golfer-friendly terrain.
Address: 115 Gardengate Drive, Franklin, TN 37069
Temple Hills Country Club in Franklin provides our area’s only 27-hole club, with 3 9-hole courses: the Dogwood, the Deer Creek, and the Quail Run. The courses are designed to provide both a challenging and enjoyable game and are widely known for their playability. Alongside access to courses, membership at Temple Hills also provides tennis, pool, dining, and social access and services.
Address: 6376 Temple Road, Franklin, TN 37069
The Grove in College Grove is an 18-hole private course within the private, luxury community of the same name. Residents of the gated community can enjoy the challenging, well-maintained course and private amenities that have earned the reputation of one of the best private courses in Middle Tennessee. The course is also the site of LIV Golf Nashville, Middle Tennessee’s only professional golf tournament.
Address: 6200 Wildings Boulevard, College Grove, TN 37046
The Governors Club in Brentwood is one of Middle Tennessee’s premier private country clubs, located within the exclusive Governors Club community, featuring acres of beautiful land and estate homes. Situated on 200 acres of scenic land, the golf course at The Governors Club is an 18-hole, Arnold Palmer Signature course known for its incredible stonework. Membership at The Governors Club provides unlimited access to the challenging course.
Address: 9681 Concord Road, Brentwood, TN 37027
Troubador Golf and Field Club in College Grove is an extremely private, membership only residential community known for its expansive outdoor environment and unique, family-friendly lifestyle amenities. Alongside the communities Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole championship golf course, the community is also home to multiple music venues and dining options that come straight from Troubador’s organic farm. The golf course itself is central to the community and known for its scenic landscape and relaxed atmosphere.
Address: 7230 Harlow Drive, College Grove, TN 37046
Vanderbilt Legends Club offers the ultimate golf experience in Franklin. Membership is highly sought after, as the club offers 2 Champion golf courses, the largest practice facility in the area, a world-class club house, a golf shop, and access to PGA-certified instruction. The club is open almost all year-round, with the only exceptions being Thanksgiving and Christmas day.
Address: 1500 Legends Club Lane, Franklin, TN 37069
Westhaven Golf Club is a private golf course adjacent to Franklin’s incredible Westhaven community. Members and their guests can enjoy the 18-hole course designed by Arthur Hills, the on-site golf performance center, practice facility, alongside full access to club amenities. The club also has a full schedule of events for members and their families.
Address: 400 Golf Club Lane, Franklin, TN 37064
Indoor Golf Simulators in Franklin & Williamson County, TN
Indoor golf experiences have gained popularity in recent years as high tech simulators have helped golfers improve their game in controlled, temperate environments that are available to use no matter the season or weather. Advanced technology allows for data-driven practice, customizable simulation of some of the world’s most sought after courses, and more, providing a valuable, accessible resource for players of all levels and experience.
The Back Nine Golf is an indoor golf simulator with 2 Williamson County locations in Franklin and Spring Hill. Tee times at The Back Nine allow golfers to choose simulated courses from around the world while having the benefit of analytical technology shown to improve swing technique. They have bays open 24/7, with public tee times and membership options available. If you’re looking to book a tee time or inquire about membership, find Franklin information here and Spring Hill information here.
Drivers Indoor Golf Club in Nolensville is a local indoor golf simulator. A corporate or individual membership to Drivers Indoor is a great way to improve your golf game, gather together with friends or coworkers, and experience the luxury of being a part of a golf club for a fraction of the price. Learn more about membership here. Individual members are allotted 3 guests every time they visit.
Par Golf TN is an Indoor golf simulator located in Brentwood known for its immersive realism and precise technology. The customizable experience is a great way to improve skills in a controlled, dynamic environment. You can book a number of sessions through Par Golf TN, whether you’re interested in a group outing or individual practice. Keep in mind that golfers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (21+). Book tee times here.
The Sanctuary Golf & Social Club in Brentwood is a community-centric indoor golf experience passionate about bringing the luxury of members clubs to the world of indoor golf. Alongside simulated games, you will find private event space, good company, and exceptional service. Learn more about membership here.
X Golf Franklin offers state-of-the-art golf simulators and opportunities for 1-on-1 or group instruction. X Golf is a global franchise known for its advanced technology and accuracy. At X Golf Franklin, simulator pricing varies depending on day of the week and session type. Each simulator can accommodate up to 6 golfers. Private rooms and instruction can be booked for additional cost. Explore your options and book a simulated tee time here.
Golf Stores in Franklin & Brentwood
If you’re just starting out, or are simply in the market for new golf clubs, there are a variety of stores throughout Williamson County that can help you find the best fit when it comes to equipment and apparel. Whether you’re looking for a particular brand, a custom fit, or an exceptional price point, there are options for you.
Academy Sports + Outdoors is a large sporting goods store with a Franklin location. Academy Sports carries a variety of clothing and athletic equipment at competitive prices, including but not limited to golf balls, bags, clubs, shoes, and more. The Franklin store is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Address: 1915 Mallory Lane, Franklin, TN 37067
Golf Galaxy is a well-known golf store with a location in Brentwood. Alongside traditional retail, Golf Galaxy also offers swing analysis, lessons, club repairs, custom fitting, simulator rental, and more. The Brentwood store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood, TN 37027
PGA TOUR Superstore in Cool Springs carries a wide variety of men’s, women’s, and kid’s golf apparel, equipment, tech devices, and more. Other store services include lessons, expert club fittings, practice bays, and clinics for all-ages and skill levels. The Cool Springs location is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 545 Cool Springs Boulevard, Unit 105, Franklin , TN 37067
Club Champion is a golf store in Franklin that specializes in custom clubs. Their custom studio is a great fit for golfers of all skill levels who may be looking for more tailored service and equipment features. You can book a fitting appointment through their website. The store is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 1910 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 110, Franklin, TN 37067
Play It Again Sports is a sporting goods store that buys and sells used sports gear and equipment. This is a sustainable, affordable alternative to buying new equipment without sacrificing quality. This can be especially helpful when it comes to golf equipment, as clubs and more tend to be fairly expensive. The Brentwood location is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 12-5 p.m.
Address: 1701 Mallory Lane, Suite 350, Brentwood, TN 37027
Coming Soon to Music City: PopStroke Nashville
As one might imagine, Nashville is home to plenty of golf-related resources. Alongside other popular destinations, a new venue is set to open in Music City in early 2026. PopStroke Nashville is an all-weather golf and entertainment space. Features include professionally designed 18-hole putting courses (2 indoors and 1 outside), a restaurant, full-service bar, and an ice cream parlor. The company has other locations across the country; however, Nashville’s location will be the first all-season venue, complete with high tech features and membership benefits. Learn more about the exciting new addition here.
On The Green
Whether you’re a golfing novice, Tiger Woods himself, or somewhere in between, golf can be a relaxing, accessible sport that you can be enjoyed at any stage of life. For more opportunities to stay active and involved here in Williamson County, Tennessee, consider exploring local Gyms, Studios, Recreational Facilities, And More as well as Resources for Runners and cyclists in Franklin and Williamson County. When it comes to competition, if you’re more keen on mini golf or other related activities, check out Retro Fun In Franklin & Williamson County, TN.
Above all else, creating spaces to gather together—around sports or otherwise—is a great way to stay engaged with the community in whatever ways bring you the most joy and fulfillment. Our Middle Tennessee home is full of opportunities to stay equipped for your favorite sports and pastimes, whether you’re spending a day on the green or somewhere else.
