What are the best golf courses in Scottsdale for long weekend trips?

Talking Stick, TPC Champions, and McDowell Mountain are great public course options for multi-day golf trips in Scottsdale.

Can I play 36 holes in a day at these Scottsdale courses?

Yes, many courses like Talking Stick and Grayhawk have 36-hole layouts or offer easy replay rounds for long golf days.

How should I structure a 3-day golf weekend in Scottsdale?

Start with a relaxed first round, double up on day two with 36 holes, then close with a scenic or easier course before departure.

Scottsdale

Best Public Golf Courses in Scottsdale for Long Weekend Trips

The best public golf courses in Scottsdale for a long weekend, ideal 36-hole combos, top vibes, and repeat-play value.

September 13, 2025 · 6 min read

Planning a long weekend golf getaway to Scottsdale? You’re going to want courses that are easy to pair, fun to replay, and well-located for maximizing your time. Whether it’s a bachelor party or a buddies’ escape, these are the public courses that make a 3- or 4-day trip smooth and memorable.

Quick Answer: Best Courses for Long Golf Weekends in Scottsdale

TPC Scottsdale Champions, Talking Stick, McDowell Mountain, and Papago are top public picks for long weekends. Each offers replay value, strong second-round pairings, and easy logistics for 3–4 day golf itineraries.

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What Makes a Course Great for Long Weekend Golf Trips?

For multi-day golf trips, you want:

Courses that are fun to replay
Proximity to one another for easy 36-hole combos
Variety across rounds so each day feels fresh
Good recovery holes and casual pace for back-to-back rounds

Best Scottsdale Public Courses for Long Golf Weekends

1. TPC Scottsdale – Champions Course

North Scottsdale | $$

Less expensive than the Stadium Course but still premium, Champions offers playability, great replay value, and a solid pace of play. Ideal for day one or day three of your trip.

Walker-friendly design
Great food and drink options nearby
Strong replay potential if your group wants to stay local

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2. Talking Stick Golf Club (O’odham & Piipaash)

Salt River Reservation | $$

Two 18-hole layouts make Talking Stick a perfect choice for 36-hole days. You can rotate courses or replay your favorite, with a casino resort just down the road.

O’odham = flatter, links-style
Piipaash = tree-lined, traditional
Great for day two of the trip

Related Post: Planning a full weekend? Don’t miss our Best Scottsdale Golf Trip Itinerary for Groups

3. McDowell Mountain Golf Club

North Scottsdale | $$

This course plays great on back-to-back rounds thanks to wide fairways, a forgiving layout, and a scenic yet chill atmosphere. It’s playable for all handicaps, making it a good early trip round.

Low-stress design
Beautiful views without punishing desert carries
Works well paired with Eagle Mountain or Starfire

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4. Papago Golf Club

Phoenix – Near Old Town | $–$$

Papago’s municipal status makes it a sneaky value, but the conditions, views, and big-boy layout make it worthy of any trip. A great addition to break up North Scottsdale rounds.

Home of ASU golf
Giant views of Papago Buttes
Close to Phoenix airport and Old Town nightlife

5. Grayhawk – Raptor Course (if budget allows)

North Scottsdale | $$$

Want to splurge one day? Raptor delivers big drama, PGA Tour pedigree, and excellent replay value. It pairs well with other North Scottsdale courses and adds polish to your trip.

Premier public golf experience
19th hole vibe is strong
Consider pairing with McDowell or Talking Stick

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Author

Ryan from 18Away Golf trip designer and editor

I help groups plan unforgettable itineraries across the top golf destinations in the U.S., blending real-golfer feedback with first-hand course research.

About the author · [email protected]

About This Scottsdale Guide

Every 18Away guide is independently written and updated by real golfers. We evaluate public access, group-friendly value, and proximity to top courses, referencing thousands of verified reviews, rate data, and on-site experience. Guides are refreshed regularly as conditions & pricing change over time.

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