I been waiting on an article like this. My golf buddy's and I live in Charlotte NC but drive 45 minute up I-85 to Salisbury NC to rotate
playing between 4 public courses. McCanless golf course, Rolling Hills golf course, Corbin Hills golf course and Revival at Crescent golf course
all priced around 20-35 dollars during this week. At that price we still have money for food and gas after playing, and the local food spots are great as well.
Thelmas Soul Food restaurant for lunch. Breakfast Time restaurant for what else but breakfast. Price does make a difference when you try to retire soon.
Charlotte public course can be pricey when you on a budget, but I have played alot of courses in Charlotte. $50-70 kinda pricey when you just want to play,
have fun and get better and not break the Bank.

Try Northwood Golf Course in Monte Rio CA. A 9 hole course designed by Alistair McKenzie - the architect of Cypress Point and Augusta National. Located in Sonoma County wine country cut through giant Redwood trees with views of Russian River. Wonderful ambience with quaint little pro shop and fun restaurant and bar including outside patio seating. Cost us $35 walking.

Garbage. Who the H wants to mix with local old farts and (even worse) kids and women on a golf course? Stick to the private fancy clubs and avoid such riff raff

If you making the two five star tracks at The Pinehills in Plymouth, MA. your destination, make time to play Crosswinds down the road with 27 holes in pristine condition at a bargain rate of around $50 weekdays.

Tim - one of my highlights of 2018 was a visit to Maxwelton in Syracuse, IN - a Langford sans Moreau. Same vibes as you describe above. And thanks again for that heads up on Grand Beach. I had a really special experience there as well.