There are few better ways to spend a summer afternoon than a day on the links. As the weather warms up, many people are anxious to polish off the old clubs and get back on the golf course. As one of America's favorite fair-weather pastimes, there is no shortage of great courses throughout the country, and Alexandria, VA is no exception. Here are five of the best courses around town to check out when you're in the area. 1. Pinecrest Golf Course Pinecrest is a beautiful little municipal 9-hole course that's great for beginners and more experienced players alike. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere and price are on point. If you're looking for a relaxing day in the great outdoors and want a break from the more challenging and serious courses, this is the place for you. It's family-friendly and even has a practice area to groove your swing before teeing off. more 2. Greendale Golf Course If you're a more experienced player and are looking for a bit of a challenge, Greendale is where to start. The course is always in great shape with smooth fairways and true greens. It's equipped with water coolers on every hole which is nice for those hot summer days that leave you parched. After the round, don't forget to grab a bite at the excellent grill. 3. Laurel Hill Golf Club Laurel is a challenging championship golf course with long fairways and fast greens. It's a hill-filled course so it's in your best interest to rent a cart so you can save your energy for swinging the club. The course is very well-maintained and offers a driving range and chipping area to warm up before the round. Another interesting thing about this course is that it is built near an old penitentiary so you can see some of the ruins and old guard towers while you golf as a free man or woman. 4. Belle Haven Country Club Just minutes from the Old Town, Belle Haven is a beautiful course that offers spectacular views of the Potomac river. It can be a difficult track so is best reserved for those that have some experience under their belts. The facilities are great, and the clubhouse is first class. They offer lessons as well if you are looking to take your game to the next level. You'll surely work up an appetite on this challenging course so check out the great kitchen when you hit the 19th hole. 5. East Potomac Golf Course Known as one of the best public golf courses around, East Potomac includes 36 holes of golf showcasing stunning views of the Washington Monument. There's also a large driving range and a fun little miniature golf course. The course has something to offer for everyone and is also beginner-friendly thanks to its wide-open fairways. It's a walkable course with affordable rates, making it a great way to spend a summer afternoon. After a long day of walking the links, head over to Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria to pick out a new ride. There are great deals on new and used vehicles to have you driving to the course in style.
