Doing a golf trip with some buddies to Scottsdale area in March. 8-12 guys in total. 2 full days not counting travel days.
I've been put in charge of course selection and tee times and know nothing about the area, other than that it has some great courses. These are all FBG worthy dudes so cost not much of an issue. Looking for recommendations. Also is Stadium course actually worth playing or is it more of an "I did that" thing w/out the actual bleachers (which I assume will be long gone by late March).
I think I've answered this previously in this thread, but here are some input for Scottsdale in March:
1. March is going to be crazy and expensive due to spring training. I understand cost isn't much of an issue and the weather will make it worth it, but be prepared to pay the highest prices of the year.
2. Stadium is good but IMO not worth it. In March it may still be a bit beat down from the WM Open and the stands will likely be down. Nonetheless, I believe a caddie is required and you're looking at probably a $600 round with tip at least. Again, it's fun, but for that coin there are much better courses and all you're getting in the benefit it to say you've played it and it makes watching the Open more fun in the future. It's sister course - known as Champions Course - is just as nice for a fraction of the cost.
3. If you're doing two full days, then I'd suggest:
- We Ko Pa: Two beautiful desert courses that are always in great shape. About a 15 minute drive from Scottsdale. When we do our local guys' mini-trips (doing one in a couple of weeks) we always hit Ke Ko Pa. Book now though as tee times fill. You can probably play 36 there in one day if you do it right. They also have a really nice lodging option.
- Wickenburg Ranch - Maybe a 45 minute drive from Scottsdale, but this is a similarly great desert course and they have a cool little 9 hole par 3 course in a canyon that is a blast to play after a morning full round and lunch. Lots of good gambling opportunities! Only heads up here is Wick Ranch may have turned fully private.
- Greyhawk - a much more conveniently located option and they also have 36 holes, but they're a bit pricy for the cost. Courses are always very nice though and also provides a true desert golf experience.
- Talking Stick - 36 holes at the main Indian Casino in the area. The courses are a bit easier and not as interesting, but the location is great.
I say all the above assuming you guys don't have some connection to the private courses. If you do, then you should absolutely play those as Whisper Rock, Desert Forest, Estancia, Phoenix Country Club, Mesa Country Club are all just amazing with first class amenities and courses.