Golf Guide: Wichita - KS

The state of Kansas has a well-earned reputation for having played a huge role in the settlement and development of the American west. The Santa Fe and Oregon trails passed through the state, forts were established to help protect settlers and trade routes, then railroads and cattle trails contributed to the region's rowdy reputation. Wichita certainly has its share of western lore, which visitors to the city cannot help but come across as they swagger among its restaurants and bars.

Yet if travelers prefer more-contemporary culture, they can find it via Art Walks and the Artisan Trail Ready-Made Adventure, or by visiting a farmers' market, a winery or the Wichita Are Museum.

On the golf front, Auburn Hills Golf Course is likely to impress even the most jaded golfers, since the course, completed in 2001, has earned a reputation as one of the finest public courses in the Midwest. Designed by Dye Designs, International, Auburn Hills features 14 lakes and 52 bunkers, so golfers should bring their A games.

Golfers looking to bolster their egos may want to give the Arthur B. Sim Golf Course, near downtown, a try. The course plays to only a 119 slope from the tips, which may explain why the course is Wichita's busiest.

Big hitters will want to unleash their big dogs at Tex Consolver Golf Course, a muni in West Wichita that stretches an impressive 7,361 yards. When the nine water hazards are factored in, this course proves to be a fun challenge but certainly no walk in the park.