How To Play Free Golf at Some of The World's Best Resorts

You probably don't mind paying a bit to play golf, especially if it's a highly-touted course. And that's understandable - the best experiences in the game are often not the cheapest.

But that doesn't change the fact that the phrase "free golf" gives almost everyone a bit of an adrenaline rush...especially when the golf is some of the best in the world.

And that's why the following resource for traveling golfers is one of my favorites. Ever.

It's called the Preferred Golf Club, and it is among the best ways I know to score complimentary rounds of golf at great courses and resorts.

It is a members-only loyalty program / concierge service that secures exclusive rates and - yes - complimentary golf at some of the greatest golf resorts in the world.

One of them happens to be French Lick Springs, where the Senior PGA Championship is being held this week. And that's not all...

The Broadmoor? You can book a stay (and earn free golf) there through Preferred Golf.

La Quinta Resort? Check.

PGA National? Yep.

I won't list the full lineup of partner resorts and exclusive packages here, but trust me, it's stunning.

And the arrangement with American Express is one of the club's best assets: Amex cardholders with Preferred Golf Club membership can earn a free round of golf when booking at least two consecutive nights at participating hotels and resorts.

There are other ways to book stays (and plays) through the club, too. For instance, the popular Preferred Golf PlayMore Offer gives you the option to receive a $75 resort credit in lieu of golf during your stay.

All accommodations and golf bookings are handled by Preferred Golf Club's dedicated concierge service, which is available by phone from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm PST, and by email at other times of the day.

And here's what may be the best news of all:

You can now join the Preferred Golf Club for just $75/year for a "standard" membership.

The other option is a $295/year "premium" membership, which provides more/extended benefits.

Both can easily pay for themselves in one or two trips considering savings on golf, accommodations and other perks (complimentary Internet access, free room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out, etc.)

I use my membership all the time and gladly renew it each year -- it's a total no-brainer if you like to play and stay at great golf resorts.

Do you have a Preferred Golf Club membership? What are your thoughts on the program? As always, we welcome your comments below.

Tim Gavrich is a Senior Writer for GolfPass. Follow him on Twitter @TimGavrich and on Instagram @TimGavrich.
4 Comments
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If you have United Premier status or Club Card, you can get a free membership on the Club Golf site through the United link that you should see on the page. I just signed up for premier status ($225/year) for free!!!

Thanks, Brad. Agree, it really is a super program with tangible benefits. Others are just smoke and mirrors.

I have American Express Sky Miles Platinum card. Can I use this for free golf?

Got free golf last year at Casa De Campo's Dye Fore. A great deal. French Lick's Dye Course is great and not early Dye style with railroad ties rather late Dye with chipping areas and best fairway's I've ever seen. Ross Course at French Lick compares well with Pinehurst Number 2.

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How To Play Free Golf at Some of The World's Best Resorts