Orlando, Florida
Grand Cypress delivers a unique Nicklaus take on Scottish-links-inspired golf, complete with dramatic greens and strategic bunkering just minutes from Walt Disney World. The combination of history, tour pedigree, and architecture makes it a required play for serious Orlando-bound golfers.
Check out the double greens—where you’ll sometimes be putting alongside players heading to a different hole, a true St. Andrews nod.
Grand Cypress’s Links Course stands as Jack Nicklaus’s inspired tribute to the Old Course at St. Andrews—right in the heart of Orlando. Expect generous fairways, massive double greens, and strategic pot bunkers that leave their mark on every shot choice. Despite Florida’s lush backdrop, the course delivers a visual and playing style that’s all about angles, creativity, and bold, unforgiving green sites. Every nine delivers a strong resort-golf rhythm powered by Nicklaus’s signature showmanship and nods to golf’s birthplace.
Nicklaus drew direct inspiration from the home of golf, intending to blend the visual spectacle of Florida resort golf with the cunning, shotmaker’s challenge of a Scottish links.
This par-5 early in the round tempts big hitters with thoughts of reaching in two, but the fairway’s slope, angle, and tucked green demand positional play. Bunkers and angled approaches separate birdie chances from trouble.
Smart second-shot layup versus bold attack is the decision—fairway placement is key for a real birdie try.
Miss the fairway and deep bunkers come into play, with a tough up-and-down if you’re short-sided.
Resort-level turf standards, smooth but undulating greens, and consistent pacing between holes.
Busy during morning/early slots; prime tee times can see slower rounds, but afternoons generally play faster.
Lively, big-resort atmosphere with plenty of out-of-town golfers and a spirit that’s upbeat but competitive.
Standard resort golf attire—collared shirts, tailored pants or shorts, and soft spikes required.
Practicing your sand play will save crucial shots when those signature hazards inevitably loom.
The course’s long par 3s and stretched par 4s require precise distance control.
Central Florida can flip from sun to squall—carry sunscreen, hat, and rain gear.
Original North/South course opens, designed by Jack Nicklaus
The New Course, inspired by St. Andrews, opens
Hosts World Cup of Golf; Payne Stewart wins individual
Selective Nicklaus Design renovation of three holes
Transformation into broader Evermore resort; golf is retained
Grand Cypress made history as both a ‘vacation golf’ escape and a legitimate pro tournament stage, hosting the 1990 World Cup of Golf and multiple LPGA Tour Championships. Its blend of championship action and relaxed Central Florida setting became a key draw for international and stateside golfers alike.
Jack Nicklaus designed the New Course as a personal tribute to the Old Course in St. Andrews, bringing double greens and gnarly bunkering to the heart of Florida. The result is a one-of-a-kind visual: palm trees, resort lakes, and a strategic test that feels lifted from the Scottish coast.
In the late 1980s, the course rang with the star power of Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Arnold Palmer competing in the Shark Shoot-Out. The event transformed Grand Cypress into a stage for legends and delivered unforgettable highlight-reel moments.
Just a few miles from Mickey’s magic, Grand Cypress attracted both casual vacationers and serious competitors, maintaining a unique balance of accessible resort golf with authentic championship credentials for decades.
Designed as a direct homage to St. Andrews, right down to double greens and fairway crossovers.
Hosted Payne Stewart’s 1990 World Cup of Golf individual victory.
Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Arnold Palmer all competed here in the Shark Shoot-Out.
The layout often lets you see several holes at once—classic links openness in sunny Florida.
It’s one of the closest championship-level courses to Walt Disney World.
Premier public complex with two excellent, tour-tested layouts and an elite range/practice center.
Upscale, polished resort golf close to all hotel zones—lush and beautifully maintained.
A local favorite for both visitors and Orlando regulars—great conditioning and strategic variety.
Convenient, value-friendly, and known for being a fun addition to any Orlando trip.
A traveler-friendly, scenic layout with effortless booking and a relaxed vibe, perfect for extra rounds.
Stay in Lake Buena Vista, Bonnet Creek, or at the Evermore Orlando Resort for central access to top courses.
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