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Welcome to the epitome of refined elegance and premier recreational luxury – Watermark Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of West Michigan, this exclusive country club offers an unparalleled blend of sophisticated amenities and natural beauty. Boasting a championship golf course designed by renowned architect Jerry Matthews, Watermark provides a haven for golf enthusiasts seeking both challenge and serenity.

Beyond the fairways, members indulge in world-class dining experiences, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and a vibrant social calendar that fosters a sense of community. Whether it’s a round of golf, a gourmet dining affair, or simply basking in the scenic ambiance, Watermark Country Club invites you to experience a lifestyle defined by luxury, leisure, and lasting memories.

Watermark Country Club History and Founding

Watermark Country Club, situated in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has a rich history steeped in tradition and a commitment to providing an exceptional recreational experience. Established in 1921, the club was founded with the vision of creating a haven for individuals seeking a harmonious blend of leisure and refined living.

The architectural brilliance behind the championship golf course at Watermark Country Club is credited to the esteemed Jerry Matthews. Renowned for his expertise in golf course design, Matthews crafted a course that not only presents a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers but also seamlessly integrates with the natural beauty of the West Michigan landscape. His design philosophy emphasizes the harmonious coexistence of the game with the surrounding environment, resulting in a course that is as visually stunning as it is enjoyable to play.

Over the years, Watermark has evolved into more than just a golfing destination. It has become a focal point for socializing, fine dining, and overall luxury living. The club’s commitment to excellence, both in its facilities and services, has solidified its reputation as a premier country club in the region.

As members and guests explore the meticulously maintained grounds, dine in the exquisite restaurants, and engage in a range of recreational activities, they become part of a legacy that combines the club’s storied history with a contemporary commitment to providing an unparalleled lifestyle experience. Watermark Country Club stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of exceptional design, community, and the pursuit of leisure.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Watermark Country Club

No professional golf tournaments have been held at Watermark Country Club in Grand Rapids, MI. However, the club has hosted several amateur and collegiate tournaments over the years.

Here are some of the notable tournaments that have been held at Watermark Country Club:

Watermark Invitational: This annual tournament is open to amateur golfers of all ages and skill levels. The tournament is typically held in July and features a two-day, 36-hole format.
Watermark Collegiate Invitational: This tournament is open to college golf teams from across the Midwest. The tournament is typically held in the spring and features a two-day, 54-hole format.
Watermark Junior Golf Championship: This tournament is open to junior golfers of all ages. The tournament is typically held in the summer and features a one-day, 18-hole format.

In addition to these tournaments, Watermark Country Club also hosts a variety of member events throughout the year, including member-member tournaments, scrambles, and clinics.

Watermark Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

Here is a breakdown of the estimated and rumored membership costs and dues at Watermark Country Club in Grand Rapids, MI:

Initiation Fee: $15,000

Monthly Dues: $350

Food Minimum: $300

Cart Fee: $100

Please note that these are just estimates and the actual costs may vary.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the costs of membership at Watermark Country Club:

The initiation fee is a one-time fee that is paid when you first join the club.
Monthly dues are paid on a monthly basis and cover the cost of maintaining the club’s facilities and amenities.
The food minimum is the amount of money that you are required to spend on food and beverages at the club each year.
The cart fee is the fee that you are charged each time you rent a golf cart.

In addition to the costs listed above, there are also a number of other fees that you may be charged at Watermark Country Club, such as fees for tournaments, lessons, and social events.

Watermark Country Club Amenities

While specific amenities at private clubs like Watermark Country Club may evolve over time, country clubs typically offer a range of facilities and services for their members. Here are some common amenities you might find at a premium country club like Watermark:

Championship Golf Course: Many country clubs, including Watermark, feature an 18-hole championship golf course designed to provide both a challenging and enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts.
Practice Facilities: These may include driving ranges, putting greens, and practice bunkers to help golfers hone their skills.
Clubhouse: A central hub for socializing, dining, and relaxation, the clubhouse often includes restaurants, bars, lounges, and meeting spaces.
Fine Dining: Country clubs often boast upscale dining options, from casual to formal, offering a range of culinary experiences for members.
Fitness Center: State-of-the-art fitness facilities with a variety of exercise equipment sometimes including group fitness classes.
Swimming Pool: A well-maintained pool area for both relaxation and fitness.
Tennis Courts: Country clubs may have multiple tennis courts with opportunities for lessons and organized play.
Social Events: Regularly scheduled social events, such as themed parties, holiday celebrations, and member gatherings, fostering a sense of community.
Spa Services: Some upscale clubs offer spa facilities, including massage therapy and other wellness services.
Private Event Spaces: Spaces within the club for hosting private events, weddings, and business functions.

Watermark Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

Watermark Country Club, like many private clubs, offers a range of events and celebrations throughout the year. While specific events may vary, here are some common types of celebrations and events that members at country clubs often enjoy:

Holiday Celebrations: Watermark Country Club may host events and parties for major holidays such as New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Themed Parties: The club might organize themed parties or social events, such as costume parties, seasonal celebrations, or themed dinner nights.
Golf Tournaments: Regular golf tournaments, including member-only competitions, charity events, and special tournaments, can be a highlight for golf enthusiasts.
Concerts and Entertainment: Some country clubs arrange live music performances, concerts, or other entertainment events for members and their guests.
Family-Focused Events: Family-oriented events like family nights, children’s parties, or family-friendly outings can strengthen the sense of community.
Wine Tastings and Culinary Events: Wine tastings, chef’s dinners, and culinary events can be a great way for members to indulge in exceptional dining experiences.
Sports and Fitness Events: Fitness challenges, sports leagues, and wellness events can be organized to promote a healthy and active lifestyle among members.
Social Mixers: Regular social mixers allow members to connect, network, and build friendships within the club community.
Special Occasion Celebrations: Watermark Country Club may host events for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, and member milestones.
Educational and Cultural Events: Some clubs organize educational seminars, cultural events, or guest speaker series to provide enriching experiences for their members.

Specific details about dining options at Watermark Country Club may have changed, here are common dining options that you might find at a private country club:

Clubhouse Restaurants: Country clubs typically have one or more restaurants within the clubhouse. These may include casual dining options for everyday meals and more formal, fine-dining establishments for special occasions.
Bars and Lounges: Members often have access to bars and lounges where they can enjoy a variety of beverages, including cocktails, wines, and other refreshments.
Specialty Dining Nights: Some country clubs host specialty dining nights, featuring themed dinners, wine tastings, or chef’s table events. These provide members with unique culinary experiences.
Outdoor Dining: If the club has outdoor spaces, there may be options for al fresco dining, allowing members to enjoy their meals in a scenic and relaxed environment.
Private Dining Rooms: Private dining spaces are often available for members who wish to host events, celebrations, or business meetings while enjoying exclusive dining services.
Catering Services: Watermark Country Club may offer catering services for private events held at the club, providing customized menus for special occasions.

Watermark Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Country clubs often have specific dress codes and guest policies to maintain a certain level of decorum and uphold the club’s atmosphere. However, these policies can vary from one club to another.

Here are some general guidelines that are commonly seen in country clubs:

Dress Code:

Golf Attire: If the club has a golf course, there may be a specific dress code for the golf course, including collared shirts, tailored shorts or slacks, and golf-appropriate footwear.
Casual Wear: Casual wear, such as neat and tidy jeans, khakis, and casual shirts, is often acceptable in certain areas of the club, like casual dining spaces or lounges.
Formal Wear: For special events or fine dining, a more formal dress code may be required, such as jackets, collared shirts, and dresses for women.
Swimwear: Appropriate swimwear is usually required around pool areas.
Athletic Wear: While athletic wear may be suitable for fitness facilities, it might not be appropriate in other areas of the club.

Guest Policy:

Accompanied by a Member: Guests at country clubs are often required to be accompanied by a club member.
Registration: Guests may need to be registered at the club’s front desk or with the hosting member.
Limitations: Some clubs may have restrictions on the number of times a guest can visit within a specified time period.
Member Responsibility: The sponsoring member is typically responsible for the behavior and adherence to club policies of their guests.

Watermark Country Club stands as a beacon of refined living and recreational excellence in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With its Jerry Matthews-designed championship golf course, upscale amenities, and commitment to providing a vibrant community atmosphere, Watermark has become synonymous with luxury, leisure, and lasting memories.

Whether navigating the challenging fairways, indulging in exquisite dining experiences, or participating in a myriad of social events, members find themselves immersed in a lifestyle that seamlessly blends sophistication with the natural beauty of West Michigan. As the club continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of exceptional design, community camaraderie, and a commitment to providing an unparalleled country club experience.

Watermark Country Club Grand Rapids MI | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting