Pretty Birdie

Tallahassee’s golf scene continues to change for the better. Across the Capital City, historic clubs are being reimagined, championship courses are being renovated, and new ownership groups are investing millions of dollars into the future of the game. From Florida State University’s nationally acclaimed Seminole Legacy Golf Club to the sweeping transformations underway at Killearn Club, Southwood Golf Club, Capital City Country Club, Golden Eagle Country Club, and Wakulla Sands, Tallahassee is experiencing a golf renaissance unlike any in its history.

Few places better illustrate that momentum than Florida State University’s Seminole Legacy Golf Club. Following an extensive Jack Nicklaus-designed renovation in 2020, the course has emerged as one of the premier collegiate golf facilities in the country. The project modernized the layout, enhanced practice amenities, and created a championship-caliber environment designed to prepare student-athletes for the highest levels of competition.

Photos Courtesy of Florida State Athletics

The impact has extended well beyond the scorecard. Seminole Legacy has become a powerful recruiting asset for Florida State’s nationally competitive men’s and women’s golf programs. In recent years, the Seminoles have featured the world’s top-ranked amateur golfers in Luke Clanton and Lottie Woad while also attracting some of the sport’s most highly coveted young talent, including world No. 1 junior Miles Russell and Charlie Woods. The combination of world-class facilities, elite coaching, and a nationally recognized course has helped elevate Florida State’s profile among the game’s best players and positioned the university to compete for championships year after year.

Across town, another Tallahassee institution is writing a new chapter. Under the ownership of entrepreneur and Tallahassee native David Cummings, Killearn Club has undergone a sweeping transformation that blends nostalgia with innovation. The ambitious redevelopment includes a redesigned championship Camellia course, the addition of the family-friendly Clover Course, expanded practice facilities, and significant investments in clubhouse and recreational amenities.

“Killearn has been a Tallahassee institution, and we wanted to build on the foundation laid by previous generations to ensure its continued success for the long term,” says Ellis Pilgreen, general manager of Killearn Club.

Photo courtesy of Southwood Golf Club

While honoring the memories generations of Tallahassee families have created there, the renewed Killearn Club is positioning itself as a modern destination focused equally on golf, family experiences, and community connection. The vision, Pilgreen says, is to create “the premier golf and social club in the region” while providing an elevated experience and a welcoming place where families can continue making memories for generations to come.

Southwood Golf Club is also embracing a bold new future. Since acquiring the facility in 2026, owner Chuck Urban has brought fresh vision and renewed energy to one of the region’s most popular courses. Central to that vision is a commitment to growing the game and creating opportunities for future generations of golfers.

One of the most significant developments is Southwood’s role as the future home of First Tee of Tallahassee. The nationally recognized youth development program uses golf to teach life skills, confidence, and character to young people throughout the community. Urban and his team are currently planning a dedicated First Tee learning center, a project expected to cost approximately $3.5 million.

Photos Courtesy of Florida State Athletics

“Our goal is to create a golf club that delivers an exceptional experience for members while serving a larger purpose in the community,” Urban says. “The most important investment we’re making is in the future through First Tee Tallahassee. We want Southwood to be a place where great golf, great hospitality, and opportunities for young people all come together.”

Additional investments are strengthening other clubs throughout the city. At Golden Eagle Country Club, a recent comprehensive renovation of the course’s greens, tees, and bunkers refreshed one of Tallahassee’s most established private golf destinations. The improvements enhanced playing conditions while preserving the character and challenge that members have enjoyed for years. The project reflects a growing trend among local clubs to invest not merely in maintenance, but in meaningful upgrades that elevate the overall golf experience.

The momentum extends beyond private clubs as well. Just south of Tallahassee, Wakulla Sands Golf Club recently completed a full-course renovation that has transformed the public facility into one of the region’s most attractive places to play. Long appreciated for its layout and accessibility, the course now offers dramatically improved conditions and renewed appeal for golfers seeking a high-quality public golf experience. The renovation serves as a reminder that Tallahassee’s golf boom is benefiting players of every age, skill level, and budget.

Photo courtesy of Wakulla County

Meanwhile, Tallahassee’s oldest golf institution is preparing for a transformative future. Capital City Country Club recently secured ownership of the property it has occupied for generations through the purchase of the land from the city of Tallahassee. The move provides long-term stability and opens the door to significant future investment.

The club has also partnered with a group of investors led by Patrick Zalupski, founder of Dream Finders Homes and owner of the Tampa Bay Rays. Together, the club and its investment partners are exploring ways to reimagine the historic property while preserving the traditions and character that made Capital City Country Club a cornerstone of Tallahassee life for more than a century. While the full vision will unfold in the years ahead, the partnership signals a strong commitment to ensuring the club remains relevant and vibrant for future generations.

Taken individually, each project tells a compelling story of growth and reinvestment. Together, they reveal something larger. Tallahassee is becoming a destination where golf is thriving at every level. Elite college athletes are competing on nationally recognized facilities. Historic clubs are finding new life through visionary leadership. Young players are discovering the game through expanded opportunities. Public courses are receiving long-overdue upgrades. And long-established institutions are positioning themselves for another century of success.

The fairways may be greener than ever, but the real story is the momentum behind them. Tallahassee’s golf glow-up is well underway, and its impact will be felt across the community for years to come.  

Whole in One

You can find a more complete compendium of golf courses (and other sports facilities) in our Newcomer Guide. Flip back to page 24 or visit tallahasseemagazine.com/newcomer-guide.