The City of Bloomington’s three municipal golf courses are enjoying a renaissance, with notable increases in usage and growth over recent years. Managed by the City’s Parks & Recreation department, these courses include Highland Park, Prairie Vista, and The Den at Fox Creek, a championship course designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer.
According to Jason Wingate, Superintendent of the City of Bloomington golf courses, “It has been an exciting time for the entire golf crew.” He attributes the rise in play to several factors, including the sport’s resurgence during the Covid-19 pandemic, which limited other athletic activities, and a surge in interest among younger golfers in their teens and twenties.
Wingate also highlights the regional appeal of The Den, noting, “We have a lot of engagement with players from all over the state, and they are really impressed with the diverse course experiences we offer here in Bloomington.”
Digital Innovation Enhances Experience
This year saw the launch of the “Bloom Golf” app, which complements the successful online tee time reservation system introduced in May 2023. Available for both Apple and Android devices, the app has been well-received, with approximately 1,800 downloads and a push notification approval rate of 63%, surpassing the national average.
The app’s features extend beyond tee time bookings. It includes a live leaderboard for golf outings, GPS positioning for hole distances, and a feature that allows users to identify less busy times on the courses. Wingate notes, “Guests using the app to find quieter times have been a pleasant surprise. It helps create a more relaxed experience for newcomers and families.”
Boost in Golf Outings and Tournaments
In 2024, the city’s golf courses have experienced a significant uptick in golf outings, with a 20-30% increase, particularly evident in June with 19 events held. The Den, in particular, hosts the majority of these outings, although Highland Park has also seen a rise in such events. The introduction of a new fleet of golf carts has further enhanced the experience.
The courses also continue to be a cornerstone for high school golf, with The Den and Prairie Vista serving as venues for the IHSA’s Boys Class 1A and 3A state finals for over two decades. Wingate shares, “The IHSA tourney play is not only a great experience for the staff but also a fantastic opportunity to showcase our courses to future golfers and their families.”
Supporting Young and Multigenerational Golfers
The courses are home to four local high school teams—Bloomington High School, Central Catholic, Cornerstone Christian Academy, and Heyworth High School. Wingate emphasizes the importance of supporting young athletes, stating, “It’s essential to nurture these future golfers and provide them with a range of experiences.”
Additionally, the “Kids Play Free” program, available daily after 2:00 PM, allows children ages 17 and under to play free with a paying adult. Wingate notes, “Introducing kids to the sport in a positive environment helps foster a lifelong love of golf.”
Rising Popularity and Community Impact
Golf rounds at the city’s three courses average around 60,000 annually, with an increase of approximately 10,000 rounds from 2019 to 2023. This year alone, rounds are up by about 2,200, a 6% increase compared to the national industry average of 2%.
The staff, numbering around 85, includes a mix of first-time employees and retirees enjoying their post-career years. Wingate concludes, “It’s been an exciting few seasons for golf, and we’re thrilled to showcase our beautiful courses to the community.”
Explore the Courses
Highland Park Golf Course: Located at 1613 S South Main Street, this 5,800-yard course features creek crossings, lakes, and sand traps. For more information, call (309) 434-2200 or visit BloomingtonGolf.org.
Prairie Vista Golf Course: Situated at 502 W. Hamilton Rd., this Packard-designed course offers two-level greens, rolling hills, and a full-service pro shop. For details, call (309) 434-2217 or visit BloomingtonGolf.org.
The Den at Fox Creek: An 18-hole, 6,930-yard championship course with a links-style design. One of only three Arnold Palmer courses in Illinois, it features extensive mounding and challenging bunkers. For reservations, call (309) 434-2300 or visit BloomingtonGolf.org.
Bloomington’s golf courses are not only thriving but also playing a vital role in the community by offering diverse golfing experiences and supporting the sport’s future.