The Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry golf course design portfolios (working both together and separately) don't have the same amount of household names as some other names in architecture like Pete Dye or Tom Fazio. They are most prolific in the Midwest, particularly around Ohio, but they have amassed designs all over the country, as well as some international work as well.
Many of their courses are accessible and affordable. And based on reviews from Golf Advisor, they leave golfers pretty happy. We filtered out all the courses designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry to see which have the best overall ratings. We considered those that they've worked on together as well as separately (Hurdzan had a prolific career on his own in the 90s before teaming up with Fry).
You can read more about Hurdzan and Fry in these Q & As with our own Jason Scott Deegan:
Top 10 courses designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry according to your reviews
Sylacauga, Ala.
2003
Hurdzan-Fry
What they're saying: "It's wide open and most holes don't have significant forced carries. At the same time, it's still challenging for better players and requires more thought than just hitting it hard." - Toothysaw2 (Texas Local Golf Advisor)
Wisconsin Dells, Wisc.
2008
Hurdan-Fry
What they're saying: "From a design, condition and enjoyment standpoint, it's the equal of some of the bigger name courses on the eastern side of the state." - RavensGolfer (Top 500 Contributor)
Waterloo, Ill.
1993
Michael Hurdzan
What they're saying: "A great layout, taken care of with love and the interest to see that everyone has an enjoyable time." - CardsFan14
Erin, Wisc.
2006
Hurdzan-Fry-Whitten
What they're saying: "It's links off the tee, but traditional into the greens for the most part, making it a most interesting hybrid." - MikeBaileyGA (Senior Writer)
Richmond, Ky.
1993
Michael Hurdzan
What they're saying: "This course is a challenge for most due to blind shots on several holes. It is not a simple course, but does offer some nice scoring opportunities." - LawDog324
Peach Bottom, Pa.
1996
Michael Hurdzan
What they're saying: "Do not just pull driver out and go... Think about each shot first or you will not like your results. Smart golf." - buddhaman4 (Philly Local Golf Advisor)
Leawood, Ks.
1995
Michael Hurdzan
What they're saying: "This was a fun but challenging course for me. Lots of streams, bunkers, hills, and trees; very pretty and well maintained. Accuracy and course management both important." - 4032spring
Palm Desert, Calif.
1998
Hurdzan-Fry with John Cook
What they're saying: "Visually stunning course -- also playable for mid-handicappers." - Peebgolf
Neshanic Station, N.J.
2004
Hurdzan-Fry
What they're saying: "Very open golf course, so even the slightest breeze comes into play. The course is all in front of you, no blind shots." - exM1dog
Keystone, Colo.
2000
Hurdzan-Fry
What they're saying: "If you are looking for golf in the mountains, this is probably my favorite." - JeffArenson (Denver Local Golf Advisor)
My favorite Hurdzan-Fry courses
I haven't played too many of them, but here are three personal favorites by Hurdzan and/or Fry:
Dundarave Golf Course, Prince Edward Island: This is on the short list for best course on PEI, and in some ways is a more complete 18 than the Links at Crowbush Cove.
EagleSticks Golf Club, Ohio: A charming rural setting on a hilly piece of terrain but very playable with a handful of really tough holes, and one of my ten favorite courses under $50.
Raven at Three Peaks, Colorado: One of a handful of must-plays in Summit County, the Raven has thrilling elevated tees and 360-degree mountain views.
