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Welcome to Eau Claire Golf and Country Club, an exquisite haven for golf enthusiasts nestled in the heart of Altoona, Wisconsin. As a premier destination for those seeking an unparalleled golfing experience, our club boasts a rich history, lush landscapes, and top-notch facilities.

With a challenging 18-hole championship golf course designed to captivate players of all skill levels, Eau Claire Golf and Country Club offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and sporting excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just beginning your journey in the world of golf, our club invites you to indulge in a harmonious blend of leisure and recreation. Join us in the pursuit of excellence, where the serenity of the surroundings meets the thrill of the game at Eau Claire Golf and Country Club.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club History and Founding

The Eau Claire Golf and Country Club, located in Altoona, Wisconsin, boasts a rich history dating back to 1901. It is considered one of the finest and most challenging golf courses in the upper Midwest. The club’s 18-hole, par-71 championship course is spread over 250 acres of mature, wooded terrain, featuring sweeping hillsides and towering white pines. The course offers spectacular views of the Chippewa Valley, making it a truly picturesque golfing experience.

The Eau Claire Golf and Country Club was founded in 1901 by a group of local businessmen who envisioned a place for the community to gather and enjoy the game of golf. The original course was a modest 9-hole layout designed by Tom Vardon, a renowned golf course architect. In 1929, the course was expanded to 18 holes by Paul N. Coates, another well-respected architect.

Over the years, the Eau Claire Golf and Country Club has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Wisconsin State Open, the Wisconsin PGA Championship, and the US Senior Open Qualifier. The club has also been recognized for its outstanding course conditions and amenities, and it has been consistently ranked among the top golf courses in Wisconsin.

In recent years, the Eau Claire Golf and Country Club has undergone several renovations to keep its facilities up-to-date. The clubhouse has been expanded and remodeled, and the course has been updated to reflect modern design standards. The club remains committed to providing its members with an exceptional golfing experience.

The Architects

Tom Vardon was a Scottish-American golf course architect who designed over 100 courses throughout his career. He is best known for his work on the courses at Pinehurst Resort and the Philadelphia Country Club. Vardon’s design for the Eau Claire Golf and Country Club is characterized by its natural beauty and strategic challenge.

Paul N. Coates was an American golf course architect who designed over 200 courses throughout his career. He is best known for his work on the courses at Olympia Fields Country Club and Milwaukee Country Club. Coates’ design for the Eau Claire Golf and Country Club added nine holes to the original layout and incorporated more challenging elements, such as bunkers and water hazards.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club is a historic and prestigious club that has played a significant role in the development of golf in Wisconsin. The club’s commitment to excellence has made it a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Eau Claire Golf and Country Club

While the Eau Claire Golf and Country Club in Altoona, Wisconsin is a beautiful and challenging course that has hosted many prestigious tournaments, it currently doesn’t hold any of the major professional golf tours’ events. However, it has been the venue for some notable regional and amateur events, including:

Wisconsin State Open: This prestigious championship, held annually since 1923, has been played at various courses across the state, but it hasn’t been hosted by Eau Claire G&CC in recent memory.
Wisconsin PGA Championship: This event, which determines the state’s professional golf champion, has also been held at numerous courses throughout Wisconsin, but not at Eau Claire G&CC.
US Senior Open Qualifier: The Eau Claire G&CC did host a US Senior Open Qualifier in 2020, providing local golfers with a chance to compete for a spot in the national championship.

While the club itself may not have held any major professional tournaments, its challenging course and beautiful setting have certainly attracted many skilled golfers over the years. It remains a popular destination for golfers in the upper Midwest, offering a memorable golfing experience.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club Membership Costs and Dues

Unfortunately, due to the private nature of Eau Claire Golf and Country Club, exact membership costs and dues are not publicly available. However, here are insights based on available information and industry standards:

Estimated Costs:

Initiation fees: Based on similar private clubs in the region, initiation fees could range from $10,000 to $50,000.
Monthly dues: Monthly dues could be in the range of $500 to $1,000, depending on the membership category.

Additional Considerations:

Food and beverage minimums: Many private clubs require members to spend a certain amount per year on food and beverages.
Cart fees and other charges: Additional fees may apply for golf cart rentals, practice facilities, and other services.

General Information:

Different membership categories exist, likely offering varying access to amenities and privileges.
Costs are expected to be significant, reflecting the club’s exclusivity and amenities.

Please note that these are just estimates, and the actual costs may vary depending on several factors.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club Amenities

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club typically offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience for its members. Here are some common amenities that you might find at such establishments:

Championship Golf Course: An 18-hole or more golf course designed for various skill levels, often featuring beautiful landscapes and challenging layouts.
Clubhouse: A central hub for socializing, dining, and events. Clubhouses often include dining facilities, lounges, and meeting spaces.
Pro Shop: A retail facility providing golf equipment, apparel, and accessories for members.
Practice Facilities: Areas for members to practice and improve their golf skills, including driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas.
Dining Options: Restaurants, cafes, or dining areas that offer a variety of culinary options for members.
Swimming Pool: Private pools for members to relax and enjoy, particularly popular during the warmer months.
Tennis Courts: Facilities for tennis enthusiasts, including courts and sometimes instruction.
Fitness Center: Gym facilities for members to stay active and fit.
Social Events: Various social activities and events are organized by the club for members to connect and engage.
Private Events Spaces: Spaces within the country club are available for hosting private events, weddings, and celebrations.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club Event Information and Dining Options

The events and celebrations at Eau Claire Golf and Country Club can vary, and the club may organize a range of activities and gatherings for its members. Here are some common events and celebrations that many private golf and country clubs often host:

Golf Tournaments: Regularly scheduled tournaments for members, which can include various formats and themes.
Social Mixers: Events designed for members to socialize and connect. These may include cocktail parties, mixers, or casual gatherings.
Theme Nights: Special evenings with themed decorations, menus, and entertainment.
Holiday Celebrations: Events centered around major holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, etc.
Club Championships: Prestigious golf competitions within the club to determine the best players in various categories.
Family Events: Activities and events catering to families, such as family golf days, picnics, or family-friendly outings.
Charity Events: Golf tournaments or other activities organized to raise funds for charitable causes.
Member Appreciation Events: Special events to express gratitude to club members for their patronage and participation.
Ladies or Men’s Nights: Specific events or evenings tailored for either gender, providing unique opportunities for socializing or competition.
Live Entertainment: Music, bands, or live performances to enhance the overall club atmosphere.

Specific dining options at Eau Claire Golf and Country Club can vary, and the club may offer a range of choices to cater to different preferences and occasions. Private golf and country clubs often provide diverse dining experiences for their members. Here are some general dining options that many private clubs typically offer:

Formal Dining Room: Elegant and upscale dining areas for more formal occasions, often featuring a refined menu and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Casual Dining: Relaxed and comfortable spaces where members can enjoy everyday meals in a more laid-back setting.
Outdoor Dining: Patios, terraces, or verandas with scenic views of the golf course, providing an al fresco dining experience.
Bars and Lounges: Spaces where members can unwind with drinks, snacks, and conversation, often featuring a bar menu.
Specialty Menus: Occasional or seasonal menus with specific themes or culinary offerings, such as wine-pairing dinners or themed nights.
Private Dining Rooms: Exclusive spaces for members to host private events, celebrations, or business meetings.
Clubhouse Snack Bar or Grill: A more casual option for quick bites and refreshments, especially for members on the go.
Brunch or Breakfast Services: Weekend brunches or breakfast offerings for members to enjoy a leisurely start to their day.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Private golf and country clubs typically have established dress codes and guest policies to maintain a certain atmosphere and level of formality. Here are general guidelines that are commonly found in such clubs:

Dress Code:

Golf Attire: Members and guests are often required to wear proper golf attire on the course. This typically includes collared shirts, slacks or Bermuda shorts, and golf shoes.
Clubhouse Attire: The dress code for the clubhouse may vary but often includes business casual or country club casual attire. T-shirts, jeans, and athletic wear may be restricted in certain areas.
Special Events: Formal events or dining occasions may have specific dress requirements, such as cocktail attire or formal wear.

Guest Policy:

Accompanied Guests: Members may be allowed to bring guests to the club, but they may need to accompany them during their visit.
Limitations on Guest Frequency: There might be limitations on how often a guest can visit the club within a specified time frame.
Registration Requirement: Guests may need to be registered with the club in advance of their visit, and some clubs may charge guest fees for golf or other amenities.
Guest Behavior: Guests are typically expected to adhere to the club’s rules and etiquette, and their behavior reflects on the member who brought them.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club stands as a distinguished haven for golf enthusiasts in Altoona, Wisconsin. With its rich history, meticulously designed championship golf course, and a commitment to providing a premium recreational experience, the club has become an integral part of the local community. From the elegant clubhouse to the scenic fairways, Eau Claire Golf and Country Club offers a harmonious blend of tradition, camaraderie, and sporting excellence.

Whether members are honing their golf skills, enjoying upscale dining, or participating in vibrant social events, the club’s commitment to quality and service is evident. As a premier destination for leisure and connection, Eau Claire Golf and Country Club continues to be a cherished institution where members create lasting memories amidst the beauty of the Chippewa Valley.

Eau Claire Golf and Country Club Altoona WI | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting