10 Best Golf Courses at Accounting Conferences in 2025

It is not an accident that there are many great public golf courses at accounting conferences. Golfing on a beautiful, well manicured golf course is a great way to unwind after spending hours in conference rooms earning CPE credits. Playing golf can also be great for networking. Golfing creates a shared activity that can break the ice and build camaraderie. Whether celebrating a great shot or commiserating over a missed putt, these moments help establish rapport and trust.

The following list of golf courses at accounting conferences is limited to venues that have golf courses on site or a few minutes from the conference venue.

• Gaylord Springs Golflinks – Tennessee, May 19 – May 21, 2025
• Grandover Resort Golf – North Carolina, June 3 – June 5, 2025
• The Westin Kierland Golf Club – Arizona, June 22 – June 25, 2025
• Golf at Omni La Costa – California, June 22 – June 25, 2025
• Hawk’s Landing Golf Club – Florida, June 22 – June 25, 2025
• The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee – Georgia, July 21 – July 23, 2025
• Treetops North – Michigan, August 13 – August 14, 2025
• Omni Grove Park Inn Country Club – North Carolina, September 8 – September 10, 2025
• Waldorf Astoria Golf Club – Florida, November 5 – November 8, 2025
• Lake of Isles – Connecticut, November 19 – November 21, 2025

RightNOW25

RightNOW25 is being held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN in May 2025.

Approximately 8 minutes from the hotel by car is the Gaylord Springs Golflinks. Situated next to the Cumberland River, the par-72 layout offers an 18-hole golf course bordered by limestone bluffs and enhanced by federally protected wetlands in Nashville.

Summary of Google Reviews for the Gaylord Springs Golflinks

Positive Feedback:

• Well-Maintained Course: Many reviewers praised the course for its excellent condition, especially the greens, fairways, and overall layout. It’s considered a fun, challenging course with some of the best greens they’ve played on a public course.
• Great Service: The staff received high marks for their friendly and accommodating nature. Many visitors enjoyed the facilities, including the practice range, driving range, and clubhouse.
• Scenic and Challenging: The terrain and layout, including hilly and undulating fairways, provided a scenic and challenging experience for golfers. The par-3 hole 13 was specifically noted for its beauty.
• Overall Enjoyable Experience: The combination of great amenities, smooth-paced play (for the most part), and welcoming environment made this course a top recommendation for both locals and visitors. Some even mentioned it as the best course in Nashville.

Criticisms:

• High Cost: Several reviewers mentioned the high cost of playing, with some feeling the price was steep, especially for a public course. Some felt that certain extras (like range balls) should have been included for the price.
• Pace of Play: A few reviewers noted slow play, especially due to large groups and long waits, which led to frustration on the course.
• Lack of Water Stations: One review pointed out that water stations had been removed from the course, which could be problematic during hot weather. This caused some disappointment, especially considering the high price of a round.

Overall Impression:

The golf course is considered a top public course in the area with a beautiful, well-maintained layout and great service. While the price is on the higher side, the quality of the course and experience justifies it for many. However, issues with slow play and lack of water stations could detract from an otherwise excellent experience.

2025 Business & Industry Spring Conference

The North Carolina Association of CPAs is hosting their Spring Business and Industry Conference at the Grandover Resort & Spa in June 2025. At the heart of the Grandover Resort are the two 18 hole championship golf courses, East & West, designed by David Graham and Gary Panks.

East Course:

• Course Conditions: The East Course is known for its excellent maintenance, with high rough, well-kept greens, and tee boxes. The driving range and practice facilities are also highly regarded. tripadvisor.com
• Layout and Difficulty: This course is celebrated for its challenging layout, requiring strategic shot placement and shot-shaping skills. It is considered a “players’ course” that defends par with its length and rolling terrain. Top 100 Golf Courses

West Course:

• Course Conditions: The West Course is appreciated for its well-maintained fairways and greens. Some golfers have noted that the course can be wet after overnight rain, which may affect playability, especially in bunkers. GolfPass
• Layout and Difficulty: Featuring natural rolling terrain, the West Course offers a layout that is more links-style than traditional country club style. It provides a fun and enjoyable experience for golfers of various skill levels. Reddit

Overall, both courses at Grandover Resort and Spa are well-regarded for their challenging designs and excellent maintenance, making them popular choices for golfers visiting the area

IMA25 Accounting & Finance Conference

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) conference is at the The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa – Arizona in June 2025 in Scottsdale, AZ. The resort is surrounded by three 9 hole courses they have named Acacia, Ironwood and Mesquite. The resort also has a spa offering massages, facials and a steam room.

Summary of Google Reviews for Westin Kierland Golf Club

Overall Sentiment:
The reviews for Kierland Golf Club are a mix of praise and criticism, with a focus on the course condition, staff, pricing, and overall experience.

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Key Highlights:

1. Course Condition:
   • Many reviewers praised the course for being in great shape with well-maintained fairways and challenging greens.
   • However, some noted issues such as greens being in poor condition or recently aerated.
2. Staff & Service:
   • Positive interactions with friendly and professional staff were frequently mentioned.
   • A few reviewers reported negative experiences with specific staff members, citing rude or unhelpful behavior.
3. Pace of Play:
   • Several reviews mentioned slow rounds, with rounds lasting 5+ hours being a common complaint. This was often attributed to overbooking or inadequate marshaling.
4. Amenities:
   • Modern features like carts with GPS and a Ping fitting station at the range were appreciated.
   • Criticisms included the lack of ball washers, outdated women’s rental clubs, and expensive food options.
5. Pricing:
   • Pricing was a frequent topic, with many calling the course overpriced given the experience.
   • Some felt the high fees were not justified, especially when conditions or pace of play fell short.
6. Notable Experiences:
   • Positive: Stunning views, forgiving fairways, and enjoyable rounds for players of all skill levels.
   • Negative: Complaints about staff attitudes, crowded play, and club quality for rentals.

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General Advice for Visitors:

• Book early, especially for special features like Ping fittings.
• Bring personal clubs to avoid potential dissatisfaction with rentals.
• Be prepared for slower rounds and plan extra time if needed.
• Check course conditions in advance, particularly regarding greens.

2025 AGA/EEI Accounting Leadership Conference

The venue for the 2025 AGA Leadership conference is the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, CA in June 2025. There are two 18 hole courses they call North Course and South Course.

The course has won several awards including the following awarded in 2024:

• North Course ranked No. 3 in Best Renovations, Golf Digest
• Best Resort Golf Course Renovation, Sports Illustrated
• Top 100 Courses You Can Play, Golf.com
• Home of the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships
• Best Golf Resorts in the Far West, NorthStar Stella Awards

Summary of Reviews for Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Overall Sentiment:
The reviews for Omni La Costa Resort & Spa are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting exceptional service, family-friendly amenities, and outstanding golf facilities.

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Key Highlights:

1. Customer Service:
   • Guests consistently praised the staff, noting their warm hospitality and helpfulness.
   • Specific employees like Eddie were recognized for going above and beyond to enhance guests’ stays.
   • Management was commended for professional handling of issues, such as resolving luggage mishaps.
2. Family-Friendly and Adult Amenities:
   • The resort offers dedicated areas for families and adults, ensuring a balanced experience for all.
   • Guests appreciated the supervised swimming pools, expansive hot tubs, and child-friendly spaces.
3. Golf Facilities:
   • The golf courses, including The Legends, received high marks for their organization and enjoyable play.
   • Anticipation for the reopening of the upgraded Champions course is strong, with expectations for a challenging and exciting layout.
4. Dining Experience:
   • On-site restaurants and bars provided delicious meals with excellent service.
   • The variety and quality of food impressed visitors, who enjoyed staying on the property for all meals.
5. Attention to Detail:
   • Thoughtful touches, like local activity recommendations and prompt issue resolution, elevated the guest experience.
   • The overall resort ambiance was described as welcoming, with happy and attentive staff contributing to a memorable stay.
6. Comparisons to Other Resorts:
   • Several guests noted that Omni La Costa outshone other well-known resorts in the area in terms of service, amenities, and overall value.

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Potential Drawbacks Mentioned:

• The temporary closure of the Champions course was noted but did not detract significantly from overall satisfaction.
• A luggage misplacement issue was mentioned but resolved to the guest’s satisfaction.

General Advice for Visitors:

• Ideal for golf trips, family vacations, and romantic getaways due to its diverse amenities.
• Book early to secure your preferred golf experience, especially when the Champions course reopens.

Scaling New Heights 2025!

The Scaling New Heights® conference is a leading accounting technology event and one of the largest gatherings of accountants and bookkeepers in the country. The venue for 2025 is at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Florida in June.

The venue includes a water park with kid’s splash zone and a lazy river, a large pool and it features an 18-hole championship golf course known as Hawk’s Landing Golf Club. Not to mention that it is only about 2 miles from Disney World.

Reviews for Hawks Landing Golf Course:

Pros:

• Beautiful Layout: Many reviewers praised the unique and visually appealing course design, with standout holes like the par-3 18th reminiscent of TPC Sawgrass.
• Excellent Maintenance: Fairways and greens are generally well-maintained, rolling true and lush.
• Friendly Staff: Positive mentions of welcoming and professional staff, from starters to golf shop personnel.
• Challenging Yet Fun: The course offers a balanced challenge with water hazards on most holes, rewarding strategic play.
• Convenient Location: Close to major attractions like Disney and Universal, making it a great choice for visitors.
• Additional Amenities: Highlights include carts with GPS, a stocked pro shop, and good food options.
• Value for Money: Reasonably priced compared to similar courses in the area.

Cons:

• Noise Pollution: Proximity to the highway affects the first nine holes with significant noise.
• Inconsistent Conditions: Some reviewers noted bare spots in the rough and sluggish greens at times.
• Short Length: While fun, the course’s length was criticized by some for lacking distance, even from the tips.
• Service Issues: A few isolated complaints about cart staff behavior.
• Price Concerns: Some felt the conditions didn’t justify the green fees.

Highlights:

• Hole 18 is a signature feature, earning rave reviews for its difficulty and design.
• The course is noted for its ample water hazards, making ball placement key.
• Reviewers consistently recommend the course for its blend of accessibility, challenge, and scenery.

2025 Annual Estate Planning Conference

The Georgia State CPA Society is holding their annual Estate Planning Conference at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee located on the banks of the stunning Lake Oconee in July 2025. Guests staying at the hotel can play seven Truly Distinctive championship golf experiences in one location.

While specific reviews of the golf courses at Reynolds Lake Oconee are limited, the overall reputation of the resort suggests a commitment to quality and excellence. The Oconee Course, in particular, is noted for its scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities. Breaking Eighty

In summary, The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee stands out as a top-tier destination for golfers seeking advanced training, equipment fitting, and practice facilities.

47th Annual Small Firm Practitioners Conference

The 2025 Michigan CPA society conference is at the Treetops Resort in Gaylord, MI in August 2025. The Treetops is known for winter skiing but also boast five world-class courses designed by renowned golf architects. Northern Michigan is a great golfing destination in August.

The resort features four distinct courses:

• Masterpiece Course: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course is celebrated for its strategic layout and scenic beauty. Golf Digest has highlighted it as a “rugged examination of your game,” noting its challenging nature, especially from the back tees. Golf Digest
• Signature Course: Crafted by Rick Smith, this course is appreciated for its dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views. Players have described it as a blend of an amusement park and a nature preserve, offering a memorable golfing experience. Plugged In Golf
• Premier Course: Designed by Tom Fazio, this course is known for its challenging layout and pristine conditions. Golfers have praised its fairways and greens, comparing them to those at prestigious tournaments. Reddit
• Threetops Course: This par-3 course is renowned for its unique design and has been recognized as one of the top par-3 courses in the U.S. It’s a favorite among golfers seeking a shorter yet challenging round.

Overall Experience

Treetops Resort is considered a premier golf destination, offering a variety of courses that cater to different preferences and skill levels. The combination of challenging layouts, stunning natural beauty, and top-notch amenities makes it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

For more detailed reviews and information, you can visit the resort’s official website or consult golf travel sites like GolfPass. GolfPass

2025 Business & Industry Fall Conference

The North Carolina Association of CPAs is hosting their 2025 Fall Business and Industry Conference at the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa in Asheville, NC in September 2025.

The Golf Course at The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa in Asheville, North Carolina, is a historic Donald Ross design that has been meticulously restored to its original layout. The par-70 course, measuring approximately 6,400 yards from the back tees, is renowned for its strategic use of the rolling hills and natural terrain, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Top 100 Golf Courses

Players have praised the course for its well-maintained fairways and greens, with many noting the fast and true rolling greens that enhance the overall playing experience. The layout is appreciated for its variety, featuring a mix of challenging holes that require strategic shot placement and risk management. The course’s design, which incorporates the natural elevation changes and scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, adds to its appeal. GolfPass

However, some reviews have highlighted areas for improvement. There have been mentions of slow play during peak times, with some players experiencing delays on the course. Additionally, a few reviews have pointed out that certain amenities, such as shower facilities and bag drop services, were lacking during their visit. tripadvisor.com

Overall, The Golf Course at The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa is highly regarded for its classic design, scenic beauty, and challenging layout, making it a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts visiting the Asheville area.

For a visual overview and more insights into the course, you might find the following video review helpful:

Synergy 2025

The Thomson Reuters SYNERGY conference gives you an exclusive opportunity to discover innovative solutions, engage in collaborative discussions, exchange ideas, and forge new partnerships. From AI-driven solutions to cutting-edge advancements in digital transformation.

SYNERGY 2025 will be held at the newly renovated and Official Walt Disney World Hotel Signia by Hilton Orlando in November 2025. The Signia includes an 18 hole golf course called Waldorf Astoria Golf Club.

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, is highly regarded for its exceptional service and well-maintained course. Golfers appreciate the excellent service provided by the staff, including valet, bag drop, and cart assistance. GolfPass

The course is described as a resort-style layout that presents various challenges suitable for the average golfer. Players also commend the course’s maintenance and the high level of service offered. tripadvisor.com

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is recognized as one of the top courses in Florida, with a 4.6 out of 5.0 rating on Golf Advisor, and 92% of golfers recommending it. The Orlando DINKs Blog

The course is noted for its challenging design, particularly off the tee, while also offering tempting scoring opportunities. The overall experience is considered premium, with excellent customer service and amenities, including GPS-equipped carts and well-maintained practice facilities. Plugged In Golf

New England Practice Management Conference

The New England Practice Management Conference is at the Foxwoods Resort Casino – Lake of Isles in November 2025.

Key Highlights:

• Course Design: The North and South courses are celebrated for their unique layouts that balance challenging holes with scoring opportunities.
• Scenic Beauty: Many reviewers admire the picturesque surroundings, particularly in the fall.
• Facilities: The venue is praised for its upscale atmosphere, making it a popular choice for golf tournaments, weddings, and events.
• Staff & Service: Numerous reviews commend the friendly and attentive staff.

Critiques:

• Condition Variability: Some golfers noted inconsistent maintenance, particularly on greens and tee boxes.
• Pricing: A few reviews suggest that the course is overpriced relative to the condition on certain days.
• Amenities: There have been occasional complaints about limited food options or facilities being closed during play.

Conclusion:

Lake of Isles is widely regarded as one of the top golf courses in Connecticut, providing a premium golfing experience with stunning views and excellent service. However, some golfers have expressed concerns about pricing and occasional lapses in course conditions.