The Orange County National Golf Center has some of the finest courses in the state, having been on the list of the Best Public Golf Courses in Orlando in 2021. Besides the amazing Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, it features a 9-hole executive golf course, which is perfect if you want to play in a laid-back environment. Designed by Phil Ritson, Isao Aoki, and David Harman, the Panther Lake opened in 1997:

• It has 18 holes and a 7,350 yardage.
• It is a masterpiece with rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes, pine trees, native wildlife, and freshwater lakes.

The Panther Lake golf course is one of the most memorable in Florida. Every hole on the Panther Lake course is unique and requires something different from your shot-making repertoire. Because no two holes play alike, you can't get bored. The only thing the 18 holes on this breathtaking golf course have in common is that each shot demands strategic thinking and precise execution. So, when you finish your round, you will likely be able to vividly recall each hole, as they're extremely different in appearance. The Panther Lake course features gently sloping fairways guarded by cleverly placed fairway bunkers, trees, and water hazards that frame the holes and offer a clear line of play.

The circular driving range at the Orange County National Golf Center, which covers 42 acres, was awarded the Best Golf Driving Range in America title. It's conveniently located just outside of Orlando, 10 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort and 30 minutes from International Boulevard. The golf center also offers 22,000 square feet of lighted putting green. When it comes to accommodation, it has 43 ground floor, lodge-style rooms situated near the clubhouse and golf facilities.

Undoubtedly, the signature hole of this scenic golf destination is the 17th hole on the Panther Lake course, a par 3 requiring a precise shot over a swampy area to a multi-tiered green.

The Crooked Cat and The Tooth Golf Courses

In 1999, the second course of the Orange County National Golf Center opened. The Crooked Cat was designed by the same golf course architects as the Panther Lake. It also features elevation changes, rolling fairways, and large greens. Still, it has significantly fewer trees, wider landing areas, and mounding framing the fairways. The Crooked Cat has a look reminiscent of the links. Since the summer of 2012, the golf course has Champions Bermuda Ultra Dwarf Turf Grass, which will greatly enhance your playing experience.

As with links-style courses, a wayward shot can end up in one of the seemingly randomly placed grass bunkers. Golf players who are enticed by the challenge of working the ball up, down, left, and right to counteract the wind will have the chance to show their skills and get the most out of this course. Plenty of low-handicap players love the back nine of Crooked Cat because of the length and challenge it entails. However, this golf course is exciting and fun to play for everyone, regardless of their experience.

The executive Tooth golf course is the ideal venue to try out your new shots. If you'd like to find out more about it, here are some interesting facts and features:

• It will give you the opportunity to work on your cut 6 iron.
• It has gentle elevation changes, bunkers, and a lake that is in play on 4 holes.
• It is a golf course that will allow you to practice while having fun.
• It also offers you the chance to maximize the time spent on improving your scoring.
• Junior players can practice here at a lower price when accompanied by a paying adult.
• The Tooth is among the best junior golf courses in Florida.

For players who'd like to master their game, there is the Golf Academy at Orange County National, which is dedicated to player education and development. There are 12 teaching professionals on the site to help you with every aspect of your game, from physical conditioning to perfecting your swing using the most innovative technology available. Currently, the cost per lesson for adults ranges between $110 and $125, whereas for juniors, between $29 and $65. Finally, it's worthy of note that the Orange County National Golf Center also has a golf school.

The Takeaway

Featuring the largest driving range and practice facility in the country, the Orange County National Golf Center in Orlando, Florida, should be on the destinations list of golf aficionados. The Panther Lake and Crooked Cat golf courses will offer you the chance to have a fun, exciting round with your friends or family, while the Tooth golf course will give you the opportunity to master your game if you're a beginner or would like to become a professional. If you're planning a weekend getaway, you'll find great accommodation and a pub & grill with a variety of delicious food at the Orange County National Golf Center.

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