1. Shadow Creek, Las Vegas, Nev.

This is the rare course wrapped in mystique and hype that lives up to, or exceeds, expectations. It is simply a fantastic golf course, worthy of its perennial U.S. Top 10 ranking. It is also an exclusive “owner for the day” experience, including an excellent caddie, custom cart with cooler of complimentary drinks, and round trip limo transfers from any MGM/Mirage hotel (you must be a guest of Bellagio, Mirage, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Treasure Island, and a few others to book a tee time). Fazio transplanted more than 21,000 fully mature trees, many over 30 feet high, creating a forest feel so heavily wooded you can rarely see any other hole. There are tumbling streams and waterfalls, elaborately rock lined and completely artificial, yet stunning. Shadow Creek lives up to its reputation as the world’s top casino course, and recently wrapped a months-long renovation making it better than ever. Even with $500 greens fees, inexpensive Vegas rooms make it less than a round at “cheaper” courses with expensive mandatory hotels, such as Pebble Beach.

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