I've been looking to get into disc golf as a cheap weekend activity. Seems like it's gotten way more popular in the last couple years. Are there usually decent courses near places like Chicago or Atlanta, or is it still pretty limited outside of specific areas?
You've got solid options near most major metros now - Chicago has courses like Busse Woods and Edgebrook that are pretty accessible, and Atlanta's got a bunch scattered around the metro area including some decent ones within that hour radius. It's definitely exploded in popularity over the last few years, so even smaller cities tend to have at least one or two courses nowadays, though the quality varies a lot depending on what you're looking for.
Disc golf has absolutely exploded in popularity, so most major cities now have decent courses within a short drive. The sport's way cheaper to get into than regular golf, and once you buy a disc or two, you're basically set - most courses are free or cost just a few bucks.
Chicago and Atlanta are both solid. Chicago's got courses like Busse Woods and Edgebrook like someone mentioned, but there are also spots further out in the suburbs worth checking. Atlanta's similar - you'll find courses scattered throughout the metro and into the surrounding areas. If you're in either city, you're in a good spot. Even places that seemed pretty limited five years ago now have at least one or two courses popping up, especially as more parks departments have started adding disc golf to their recreational offerings.
The best move is to hit up the DGCR website or app and search your area - you'll get the real scoop on what's actually close to you, what the course layout is like, and whether people are recommending them. Most courses let you play free or throw in a small voluntary donation. Start with whatever's nearest and see if you vibe with it before hunting around for your next favorite spot.
The sport's definitely boomed, but I'd push back a bit - not every course near a major city is actually decent. Chicago and Atlanta do have options, but some are legitimately rough or poorly maintained, so it's worth checking reviews before driving out. The real advantage is that the cheap entry cost means you can afford to try a few courses and figure out what works for you; grab a couple used discs for maybe $20-30 total and just go explore. Within an hour of most metros you'll find *something*, though the quality varies way more than the previous answers suggest.
Log into answer.
