Golf Guide: Birmingham - AL

Located in central Alabama in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Birmingham is one of the more affordable city golf destinations with most green fees priced below $50 for twenty or so courses less than 20 miles from downtown. Even Birmingham's contribution to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Oxmoor Valley's Valley and Ridge courses, roll out incredible values with green fees around $50.

Since it was founded in 1871 at the crossroads of two rail lines, Birmingham grew so fast as a center for iron and steel production, it was dubbed "The Magic City." Its history was also impacted by the Civil Rights movements of the 60s and 70s.

Today a vibrant hub of diversity, entertainment and culture, its public-accessible golf draws on the talents of architects like RTJones, Bob Cupp, Jerry Pate, Earl Stone, Bobby Vaughan and Robert Ruhlwich. Shoal Creek , a private Jack Nicklaus design and host to PGA tour events, is another feather in Birmingham's golf cap.

Another beauty, Ballantrae was designed by Bob Cupp who also crafted HighlandPark Golf Course just one mile from downtown Birmingham where a $4.5 million renovation has transformed it into an urban beauty while Eagle Point Golf Club designed by Earl Stone is considered one of the best courses in the southeast. Stone also designed Oak Mountain Golf Course which lies in one of Alabama's largest state parks. Would you believe a green fee of $24?

The course at the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa is the newest addition to the RTJ Trail. (2005) and the third longest course in the world at 8,191 yards. Although priced at a un-RTJ-trail-like $90-$125, it is still a bargain considering the quality.

For a unique golf getaway, play FarmLinks at Pursell Farms set on 3,500 acres about 50 miles from Birmingham. Ranked as the top public-access course in the state. Pursell Farms is a unique agronomic research and demonstration facility with a 7,444-yard championship golf and The Experience at FarmLinks, a unique, turf education program in partnership with products manufacturers in the industry. Stay in the luxurious Parker Lodge, cabins or cottages, and participate in fishing, hunting, fishing and clay shooting in addition to golf

Birmingham though a small southern city, lives big,. It's a place where you can find country-fried steak and hushpuppies as well as arugula salad with roasted pecans and sushi . And with a mild climate, you can play year round.