Ranking the Best Seattle-Area Muni Golf Courses

If you’ve teed it up around Seattle, you know the muni scene is a mixed bag—some rounds are a blast, others feel like a slog between soggy fairways and six-hour pace. But that’s part of the charm. These are the places where most Seattle golfers cut their teeth, sneak in twilight rounds, and play rain or shine.

Here’s how we’d rank the main Seattle-area munis, starting from the bottom and working our way to the best.

6. Lynnwood Golf Course

Lynnwood is short (just under 4,800 yards) and straightforward, with a mix of narrow fairways and small greens. It’s a nice walk and has a few fun shots, but the conditions are hit or miss and the layout doesn’t offer much variety. That said, it’s a solid spot for beginners or a quick round after work.

5. Foster Golf Links

Foster is another short, friendly track that’s been around forever. It’s flat, playable, and easy to walk, which makes it great for casual rounds or mixed-skill groups. A few holes cross the river and add some personality, but overall it’s pretty simple golf: straight point and shoot. The conditions are usually decent, but it won’t wow you by any means. 

4. Jefferson Park Golf Course

Jefferson Park has history—it’s one of Seattle’s oldest courses and a go-to for city golfers. The layout runs mostly straight and parallel, so you’ll often find yourself close to other fairways. Conditions are average and the holes can feel repetitive, but it’s convenient and accessible. For an easy tee time in the city, it’s hard to beat.

Special shoutout: This is where Freddy Couples grew up playing golf! And Tiger Woods even played in a tournament there when he was an amateur. 

3. Jackson Park Golf Course

Jackson Park is a quirky course built across rolling hills rather than up and down them, which makes for some interesting lies and shot angles. It’s got a good mix of hole types, but can get wet in the winter and slow on busy weekends. When it’s in decent shape, though, it’s a fun challenge and one of the better values in the city.

2. West Seattle Golf Course

West Seattle delivers some of the best views in town, with several holes overlooking downtown and the Sound. The layout has more character than most munis—long par 4s, elevation changes, and some really scenic tee shots. Conditions can fluctuate, especially in summer when it gets dry, but it’s a classic Seattle track worth playing.

1. Bellevue Golf Course

Bellevue tops the list for its consistent conditions, fun mix of holes, and overall playability. It’s shorter, but the design keeps things interesting with doglegs, elevation shifts, and good greens. Pace can be slow, but the course is always well-kept and welcoming for all levels. If you had to pick one muni to play regularly, Bellevue’s the one that checks all the boxes. The driving range is also top notch!

Final Thoughts

Seattle’s muni lineup won’t win awards for pristine conditions, but it’s one of the best ways to experience golf in the Pacific Northwest—casual, scenic, and community-driven.

Whether you’re chasing a quick nine at Jefferson or a sunset loop at West Seattle, each course has its place in the local rotation.