What Is the Number One Par 3 Course in America? Here's the Answer
The King of Par 3: The Cradle at Pinehurst
Ask any serious golfer or architecture nerd, and they’ll likely say the same thing: The Cradle at Pinehurst is hands-down the best par 3 course in the U.S. And not just because it’s beautiful (which, let’s be honest, it is). It’s the vibe, the design, the fun factor. This isn't your grandpa’s pitch-and-putt.
Located in North Carolina’s legendary Pinehurst Resort—yeah, that Pinehurst, home of major championships—The Cradle is a 9-hole short course that’s been making waves since it opened in 2017.
Designed by Gil Hanse, a modern master
Gil Hanse is kind of a big deal. He’s worked on the Olympic Golf Course in Rio, Castle Stuart, and restorations at Oakmont and Winged Foot. So when Pinehurst tapped him to design a par 3? Expectations were high. And wow, did he deliver.
Why The Cradle Is More Than Just a “Short Course”
Holes with character (and challenge)
The Cradle may be short—holes range from 56 to 127 yards—but don’t let the yardage fool you. Each hole has its own identity. Tiny greens. Bold bunkers. Slopes that'll make you grin or groan. You can hit a knockdown 9-iron one hole, then pull out your putter on the next tee box (seriously).
Fun is the priority
There’s music playing. No dress code stress. You can bring a drink out. And it’s totally normal to play barefoot. It’s golf, but without the rigid formality that sometimes kills the mood. It’s just fun—pure and simple.
(First time I played, I holed out a wedge on 6 while holding a craft beer in my left hand. Unreal.)
How It Stacks Up Against Other Top Par 3 Courses
Bandon Preserve (Oregon)
Bandon Preserve at Bandon Dunes is often in the same conversation. And honestly, it’s amazing—coastal views, dunes, ocean wind. But it’s more intense, more rugged. The Cradle? It’s like the laid-back cousin who still knows how to party.
Top of the Rock (Missouri)
Jack Nicklaus design. Gorgeous. But more formal. Less “come as you are.” Plus, The Cradle lets you loop it in under an hour. Big plus.
Perfect For All Skill Levels
This is huge. Whether you’re a total newbie or a scratch player, The Cradle is approachable. It’s a place where grandparents and grandkids can both enjoy the same round. You’ll see low-handicappers grinding for aces and casual folks just happy to hit the green.
It’s literally called The Cradle because it’s where golf is “born.” A place to start, and a place to remember why we love this game in the first place.
Final Thoughts: The Cradle Reigns as America’s Top Par 3 Course
So… what is the number one par 3 course in America?
The Cradle at Pinehurst. No question.
It’s short, sure. But it’s bold, joyful, brilliantly designed—and above all, it reminds us that golf doesn’t have to be 18 holes and four hours long to be great. Sometimes, nine tiny holes are all you need.
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| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
|---|---|---|
| 14 Years | 112.0 lb. (50.8 kg) | 64.5" (163.8 cm) |
| 15 Years | 123.5 lb. (56.02 kg) | 67.0" (170.1 cm) |
| 16 Years | 134.0 lb. (60.78 kg) | 68.3" (173.4 cm) |
| 17 Years | 142.0 lb. (64.41 kg) | 69.0" (175.2 cm) |
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