3 courses in Pinehurst-March

I will be travelling to Pinehurst to play golf the middle week of March. I am not concerned about the weather, as it will most likely be better than it is here in Missouri. My question is, I have time for probably 3-4 rounds of golf (weather permitting). If I have time for 4, my plans were #2, #4, MidPines, Pine Needles. But if I only have time for 3 rounds, which course do I eliminate? #2 will make the cut, but not sure which one to remove. I am looking for the true Pinehurst experience and would like to play the best courses the Sandhills have to offer. So what say you? Should I consider Tobacco Road if I can get out 4 times?

I would definitely play Tobacco Road, especially if this is your only opportunity to be in the area. It's nothing like you've probably played before.

You had 4 really good courses on your list, and now you have 5, so the choice depends on what you want. Three Donald Ross, and one Gil Hanse, where Hanse essentially tried to re-create the terrain Ross worked with originally, that's hard to beat. Personally, I like MidPines better than Pine Needles, I just think its a more attractive course. Tobacco Road is also great fun, but a complete departure from the other 4. I think if you really want a "Pinehurst experience", you should probably skip TR, and I'd make Pine Needles #4 on my personal priority list. And of course, you should really start planning for another trip to the area so you can get to the courses you have to miss the first time.

Beyond that, if you're going to arrange tee times in advance you have to stay at Pinehurst Resort, or maybe one or two other hotels. While you're in town, be sure to stop for a drink at the Pinecrest Inn, once owned by Donald Ross.

If you only have time for 3 rounds i would play #2 #4 and Mid Pines.

Agree with @davep043 , your first 4 listed are unquestionably the “first 4” courses for your first Pinehurst experience. TR and many others in the area are fantastic, but save those for a different trip. Both the Pinehurst (resort) and Mid Pines/Pine Needles Complex are authentic and historic golf experiences. It’s so much more than the courses themselves - all 4 places (3 really, PH #2 & #4 at the same clubhouse of course) are places you will want to get there early for and hang around late at. You will not be disappointed!

> @jjthomp2 said:

> If you only have time for 3 rounds i would play #2 #4 and Mid Pines.

I think these are the three best. But if they all have a very similar sand hills feel. If you've never played a Mike Stranz course and want to see something very different, play it. But as Dave said, it doesn't feel like "Pinehurst", but that doesn't mean it isn't cool.

Tobacco Road. You'll never forget it.