Tennessee’s country club scene is a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class amenities. From historic institutions with storied pasts to modern enclaves catering to the elite, these clubs represent the pinnacle of opulence. Below, we dive into the top 25 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the The Volunteer State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
25. Temple Hills Country Club
Welcome to Temple Hills Country Club, nestled in the heart of Franklin, Tennessee, where Southern charm meets world-class golf and amenities. Our prestigious country club offers a haven of relaxation and recreation for members and guests alike. With its picturesque landscape, meticulously designed golf course, and a wealth of upscale facilities, Temple Hills stands as a beacon of excellence in the Franklin community.
Whether you’re an avid golfer, a lover of fine dining, or seeking a vibrant social scene, Temple Hills Country Club promises an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of gracious Southern living. Come explore our club and discover why Temple Hills is more than just a destination; it’s a way of life.
24. Riverbend Country Club
Riverbend Country Club in Shelbyville is a smaller, private club prized for its peaceful setting and welcoming membership. Its golf course features tree-lined fairways and a layout that emphasizes enjoyable play over extreme difficulty. The club has a quiet charm and a loyal group of members who appreciate its understated elegance.
In addition to golf, Riverbend offers social gatherings, casual dining, and seasonal activities that promote fellowship among members. Its intimate size and friendly vibe make it a hidden gem among Tennessee’s country clubs.
23. Stones River Country Club
Located in Murfreesboro, Stones River Country Club is known for its classic golf layout and strong community feel. The course offers a well-balanced challenge, with strategic bunkers, water hazards, and smooth greens that appeal to golfers at all levels. The club prides itself on providing a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Beyond golf, Stones River offers tennis courts, swimming facilities, and a clubhouse that hosts a variety of social events. It’s an ideal club for families and individuals who value camaraderie, sport, and a warm Southern welcome.
22. Old Hickory Country Club
Old Hickory Country Club is a historic and beloved private club located near Nashville. Known for its traditional Southern charm, it offers an 18-hole golf course that has been a gathering place for generations of local families. The course features classic design elements, mature trees, and well-maintained fairways that provide a competitive yet approachable game.
The club’s social calendar is lively and includes events that foster a strong sense of community among members. With its combination of tradition, quality amenities, and a welcoming environment, Old Hickory remains a top choice for those seeking a family-friendly country club experience near the city.
21. Brentwood Country Club
Brentwood Country Club—the centerpiece of the historic Midway Plantation—sits between Nashville and Franklin on a property with deep roots tracing back to the 1829 McGavock estate. The original Georgian-style Midway house, constructed by Lysander McGavock and later rebuilt in 1847, endured Civil War skirmishes and even served as military headquarters before the land was leased in the mid‑1950s to establish the club. Today, that antebellum structure functions as the clubhouse, surrounded by 215 acres of rolling Tennessee hills lined with majestic trees—some dating back over a century—and scenic bends along the Little Harpeth River that give the club its distinctive charm.
At its core is an 18‑hole championship golf course, originally designed by Gary Baird in the 1960s and recently undergoing a comprehensive renovation led by architect Bill Bergin, set to reopen in late 2023. Beyond golf, Brentwood Country Club embraces a full suite of family‑focused amenities—including dining venues with updated veranda and patio spaces, tennis courts, a swimming pool, fitness facilities, and flexible event spaces—all delivered with a welcoming service ethos to its approximately 475 full members. The club honors its historic legacy while continuously evolving to offer a modern and friendly social environment.
20. Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club
Located in Hendersonville on Old Hickory Lake, Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club offers a unique blend of golf, boating, and social activities for its members. The club’s golf course is a meticulously maintained 18-hole layout that provides a challenging yet enjoyable round for players of all levels. Members have access to a full-service marina, making it ideal for boating enthusiasts.
The club’s vibrant social scene includes seasonal events, dining experiences, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club’s lakeside location, combined with its broad range of amenities, creates a resort-style atmosphere that appeals to families and active adults alike.
19. Black Creek Club
Black Creek Club, located in Chattanooga, is a premier private golf community known for its impeccable course and warm hospitality. Designed by Brian Silva, the course features lush fairways, strategic bunkering, and pristine greens that challenge players of all skill levels. The natural beauty surrounding the club, including mature hardwood forests and rolling hills, adds to the overall experience and exclusivity.
Members enjoy a full slate of amenities including a modern clubhouse with fine dining, tennis courts, and a robust social calendar. Black Creek fosters a family-oriented atmosphere while maintaining the exclusivity and elegance expected of a top-tier country club, making it a coveted destination in Tennessee’s golf scene.
18. Chattanooga Golf & Country Club
Nestled along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga Golf & Country Club offers a picturesque setting steeped in history. Established in 1896, it’s one of the oldest clubs in the South and features a classic golf course with stunning river views and well-preserved architecture. Members enjoy a traditional club experience with a strong emphasis on legacy and community.
The club’s grand clubhouse overlooks the river and offers multiple dining rooms, banquet facilities, and cozy lounges. Tennis, swimming, and a robust junior golf program make this a well-rounded destination for families. Its historic charm, riverfront location, and prestige have earned it a coveted place among Tennessee’s finest.
17. Holston Hills Country Club
Founded in 1927 and located in Knoxville, Holston Hills Country Club is a true classic among Tennessee’s private clubs. Its Donald Ross-designed golf course is considered one of the finest examples of traditional course architecture in the region, offering a challenging yet fair test of golf with rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast, undulating greens. The course’s timeless design attracts serious golfers who appreciate the rich history and skillful play it demands.
Beyond the golf course, Holston Hills offers an inviting clubhouse with elegant dining options, tennis courts, and swimming facilities. The club prides itself on a close-knit membership community that values tradition, camaraderie, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s for competitive golf or social gatherings, Holston Hills Country Club remains a cornerstone of Knoxville’s country club scene.
16. Memphis Hunt & Polo Club
Nestled just outside Memphis, Hunt & Polo Club offers an exceptional blend of luxury, sport, and Southern elegance. Known for its exclusive equestrian facilities, the club caters to members passionate about horseback riding, polo, and fox hunting, making it a rare destination for enthusiasts of traditional countryside pursuits. The sprawling grounds provide ample space for riding trails, polo fields, and beautifully maintained pastures, all set against the backdrop of rolling Tennessee hills.
In addition to its equestrian focus, Hunt & Polo Club offers a range of upscale amenities including fine dining, social events, and recreational facilities designed for family enjoyment. This unique combination of refined country living and active outdoor lifestyle attracts a discerning membership seeking privacy, community, and a connection to the region’s historic sporting traditions.
15. Old Natchez Country Club
Old Natchez Country Club is a family-friendly private club located in the rolling hills of Franklin. The 18-hole course is designed for year-round play, offering both beauty and challenge. Its layout accommodates all skill levels, making it a favorite among casual and serious golfers alike.
The club also features tennis courts, a large swimming pool, and a classic Southern clubhouse with indoor and outdoor dining. Known for its warm, community-focused atmosphere, Old Natchez combines tradition with family-oriented amenities.
14. Westhaven Golf Club
Tucked inside the master-planned community of Westhaven in Franklin, this club offers a modern yet intimate golf experience. Its Arthur Hills-designed course is carefully integrated into the natural landscape, offering enjoyable play for golfers at all levels.
Members enjoy a welcoming clubhouse, upscale dining, and regular tournaments and events that build a close-knit community. Westhaven Golf Club is ideal for young professionals and families who value both luxury and convenience in a suburban setting.
13. Vanderbilt Legends Club
Located in Franklin and affiliated with Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt Legends Club is home to two championship golf courses that serve as training grounds for collegiate athletes and professional events. The courses, co-designed by Bob Cupp and Tom Kite, offer variety and challenge in a picturesque setting.
Legends Club combines academic prestige with high-quality golf, drawing members who value both sport and tradition. The club also features excellent practice facilities, a large clubhouse, and social events that reflect its close ties to the university and broader Nashville community.
12. Grasslands Country Club
Grasslands Golf & Country Club outside Nashville offers a refined and welcoming experience that has long attracted West Tennessee’s most distinguished families. The golf course is known for its beautiful scenery, water features, and immaculate fairways, offering a great test for golfers of all skill levels.
In addition to golf, Grasslands boasts a full-service clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts. With a robust calendar of social events and member activities, the club provides a strong sense of camaraderie and exclusivity within a relaxed, traditional setting.
11. The Grove
Located in College Grove, The Grove is a luxury private club community centered around a Greg Norman Signature golf course. The course is both challenging and beautifully designed, drawing attention for its strategic layout and natural terrain. The club is known for delivering an exceptional golf experience with impeccable service.
The Grove also offers members world-class amenities, including an equestrian center, full-service spa, fine dining, and fitness programs. Its strong community atmosphere and wide range of recreational activities make it especially popular among families and retirees seeking resort-style living.
10. Troubadour Golf & Field Club
Troubadour is more than just a golf club—it’s a luxury lifestyle community in College Grove that blends music, nature, and top-tier amenities. The golf course, designed by Tom Fazio, is both scenic and accessible, attracting high-profile members from the entertainment and business worlds.
The club emphasizes casual luxury, with farm-to-table dining, outdoor gathering spaces, and unique amenities like fishing ponds, archery ranges, and concert stages. Troubadour’s fresh take on country club living attracts those looking for exclusivity without the formality, making it one of Tennessee’s most innovative clubs.
9. The Golf Club of Tennessee
The club limits its membership to preserve the pristine experience, allowing members to enjoy uncrowded play and a deep sense of community. With minimal distractions and a strong focus on golf excellence, The Golf Club of Tennessee appeals to those who seek an elite and immersive golf environment.
Hidden in the rolling hills of Kingston Springs, The Golf Club of Tennessee is a private sanctuary designed for the golf purist. The Tom Fazio-designed course is consistently ranked among the best in the state, offering a quiet, natural layout that emphasizes strategy, skill, and solitude.
8. Chickasaw Country Club
Established in 1922, Chickasaw Country Club is a fixture in Memphis’s East Parkway neighborhood, known for its timeless elegance and relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The club’s traditional golf course offers a serene escape within the city, with mature trees and rolling fairways that appeal to purists of the game.
The club’s reputation extends beyond the course, with premier tennis facilities, an inviting swimming pool, and well-appointed dining venues. Chickasaw is deeply rooted in Memphis society, and its exclusivity is enhanced by a selective membership process and a multigenerational member base that cherishes tradition.
7. TPC Southwind
As one of only a few TPC (Tournament Players Club) venues in the region, TPC Southwind in Memphis offers a professional-level golf experience. Home to the PGA Tour’s FedEx St. Jude Championship, the club boasts a challenging layout with narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, and pristine course conditions that mirror tour standards.
Beyond golf, TPC Southwind provides members with upscale amenities, including a modern clubhouse, gourmet dining, and social events tailored to professionals and golf enthusiasts. Its national affiliation with the TPC network adds to its exclusivity, attracting a membership that values both prestige and elite-level play.
6. Honors Course
The Honors Course, nestled in a secluded valley just north of Chattanooga in Ooltewah, Tennessee, is a private, Pete Dye–designed championship golf club founded in 1983 by Coca‑Cola heir Jack Lupton to honor amateur golf. Set within 460 acres at the foot of White Oak Mountain, it’s a pure golf sanctuary—no tennis courts, swimming pools, or distractions, just classic Dye architecture woven into rugged, wooded hills and lakes. Known for its daring Zoysia fairways, undulating “death‑or‑glory” greens, and towering native grass rough, it continues to present a stern test even today, with recent restorations by Gil Hanse and upkeep guided by legendary superintendent David Stone emphasizing turf innovation and natural biodiversity.
The Honors Course stands as Tennessee’s top-ranked course—consistently in Golf Digest’s Top 100 (#29 nationally) and #1 in the state. It has hosted a lineup of prestigious amateur tournaments including the U.S. Amateur (1991), Curtis Cup (1994), NCAA Division I Championships, and the 2024 U.S. Senior Amateur. With its commitment to a walking/caddie tradition, undisturbed natural surroundings supporting abundant wildlife, and a manicured yet raw aesthetic approved by Dye himself, Honors isn’t just a course—it’s a pure, unyielding temple to competitive amateur golf
5. Richland Country Club
Richland Country Club, located just outside of downtown Nashville, combines classic Southern charm with modern luxury. Originally founded in 1901 and later relocated, Richland features a meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course that offers a premier playing experience. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course provides a beautiful and strategic layout that attracts skilled players from across the state.
The clubhouse itself is a hub of refined activity, with multiple dining venues, a spa, fitness center, and event spaces that host everything from weddings to charity galas. Richland’s social scene is lively yet exclusive, and its emphasis on family-oriented programs makes it a sought-after destination for both longtime residents and newcomers to the area.
4. Hillwood Country Club
Hillwood Country Club is a premier private club in Nashville known for its welcoming atmosphere, top-notch facilities, and well-rounded lifestyle offerings. Its 18-hole championship golf course winds through tree-lined fairways and features some of the best greens in the area. Designed to be both scenic and challenging, it’s a favorite among local golf aficionados.
The club’s extensive amenities include tennis courts, a junior Olympic pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and stylish dining options for both casual and formal occasions. Hillwood is especially popular with families, thanks to its year-round programming for children and robust social events calendar. Its combination of elegance, sport, and community sets it apart as a leader in the Nashville country club scene.
3. The Governors Club
Set within a gated luxury community in Brentwood, The Governors Club offers a private sanctuary for golf lovers and families seeking a high-end lifestyle. Its Arnold Palmer Signature golf course is the centerpiece—challenging yet fair, with scenic rolling hills and water features that create a visually stunning experience. The course design appeals to both seasoned players and weekend enthusiasts.
Inside the stately clubhouse, members enjoy gourmet dining, social lounges, and personalized service. The club also offers a full calendar of family-focused events, fitness facilities, and tennis courts. Combining refined Southern living with modern luxury, The Governors Club remains one of the most desirable addresses for country club membership in Middle Tennessee.
2. Belle Meade Country Club
Located in one of Nashville’s most affluent neighborhoods, Belle Meade Country Club epitomizes Southern grace and old-money prestige. Established in 1901, the club’s rich history is woven into the fabric of Nashville society. Its championship course, designed with both strategy and beauty in mind, has hosted numerous state and regional tournaments, attracting serious golfers and socialites alike.
Belle Meade‘s exclusivity is matched by its luxurious amenities, including fine dining, a grand ballroom, tennis courts, and a resort-style pool. The club is renowned for its social calendar, which features black-tie galas, holiday events, and family-friendly gatherings. Generational membership is common here, reflecting the club’s enduring status and social influence in the region.
1. Memphis Country Club
Founded in 1905, Memphis Country Club is a cornerstone of the city’s elite social and golfing scene. Known for its deep Southern roots and timeless sophistication, this private club has maintained a reputation for exclusivity and tradition for over a century. Its beautifully manicured Donald Ross-designed golf course provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for serious players and casual enthusiasts alike.
Beyond golf, the club offers high-end amenities including tennis courts, an Olympic-sized pool, and elegant dining facilities that host some of the city’s most prestigious events. Membership is by invitation only, and generations of prominent Memphis families have called this club their second home. Its combination of history, community, and elite offerings makes it one of Tennessee’s most revered private clubs.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in Tennessee’s country club scene. Each offers a unique blend of championship golf, refined Southern hospitality, and upscale amenities. With a strong commitment to privacy and personalized service, they cater to discerning members who seek the finest in leisure, lifestyle, and tradition.