Just 15 miles southwest of New Orleans in the town of Avondale, TPC Louisiana is the beating heart of professional golf in the Gulf Coast region. Designed by the iconic Pete Dye, with input from PGA Tour veterans Steve Elkington and Kelly Gibson, the course opened in 2004 and has quickly become a crown jewel of the Audubon Golf Trail — a collection of eco-friendly courses throughout Louisiana.
Today, it proudly hosts the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, a unique two-player team event on the PGA Tour, and welcomes amateur players year-round seeking the ultimate “Tour” experience.
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Architect: Pete Dye (with consultation from Steve Elkington & Kelly Gibson)
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Opened: 2004
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Par: 72
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Total Yardage: 7,425 yards (Championship tees)
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Tee Sets: 5 options ranging from 5,121 to 7,425 yards
TPC Louisiana embodies the signature design elements of Pete Dye, blending strategic bunkering, risk-reward water hazards, and devilishly contoured greens into a formidable test of golf. Despite its flat delta terrain, the course has been transformed into a flowing links-style experience, with dramatic mounding and sprawling waste areas adding depth and challenge to each hole.
Over 100 bunkers and five massive water hazards are strategically placed, demanding precision and strategy from players throughout their round. Emphasizing natural wetlands preservation, the course is enveloped by towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss and teeming with Louisiana wildlife, ensuring that every swing is immersed in the untamed beauty of the region. As Pete Dye himself put it, “TPC Louisiana doesn’t just test your golf game. It pulls you into the wild, humid soul of southern Louisiana.”
Signature Holes
Hole #9 – Par 4, 437 yards
A dogleg left with water running along the entire left side, protected by deep fairway bunkers. A bold line over the hazard rewards the aggressive player — a Pete Dye classic.
Hole #18 – Par 5, 585 yards
The finishing hole is both breathtaking and punishing. Water hugs the entire right side, from tee to green, daring players to bite off as much as they can. It’s a true “hero or heartbreak” finale, especially under the pressure of Sunday at the Zurich Classic.
Zurich Classic of New Orleans
TPC Louisiana has hosted the Zurich Classic since 2005, but in 2017 it introduced a major twist — it became the only official team event on the PGA Tour.
Format:
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Four-Ball (Best Ball) on Thursday/Saturday
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Foursomes (Alternate Shot) on Friday/Sunday
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80 two-player teams compete, giving fans a refreshing alternative to traditional stroke play.
Recent Highlights:
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In 2025, rookies Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo stunned the golf world by firing a tournament-record 58 in the best-ball format.
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New Orleans fan favorites Billy Horschel and Sam Burns remain crowd darlings, both Louisiana-connected.
The Zurich Classic blends the festive, easy-going vibe of New Orleans with world-class golf — players often describe it as one of their most relaxed and enjoyable weeks on Tour.
The Audubon Trail
TPC Louisiana is more than just a world-class PGA Tour venue—it’s a haven for wildlife, designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The course’s thoughtful design integrates wetlands restoration, wildlife conservation, and native plant protection, allowing golfers to experience the lush, untamed beauty of Louisiana without disturbing its delicate ecosystem. Expect to see egrets and herons carefully stalking the ponds, bald cypress trees towering above the fairways, and frequent glimpses of turtles basking on the water banks.
But the real kings of the course are the Alligators. These reptiles are a common sight on course, silently gliding through the water hazards or sunning themselves near the edges, adding a thrilling presence to the already challenging layout. Their watchful eyes remind every player that this course isn’t just about golf—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Louisiana’s wild wetlands. Maybe you will see Tripod, the course’s resident three legged gator.
Clubhouse & Facilities
The TPC Louisiana Clubhouse is a striking 24,000-square-foot Southern plantation-style retreat, seamlessly blending elegance with functionality. Inside, the TPC Grill offers elevated Cajun and Creole cuisine, with panoramic views of the course that create the perfect backdrop for post-round dining. The Pro Shop is stocked with premium TPC Louisiana and Zurich Classic merchandise, ensuring players can take home a piece of the experience. Golfers looking to sharpen their skills can take advantage of top-tier practice facilities, including a sprawling driving range, dedicated short game area, and meticulously maintained putting greens designed to replicate course conditions. Beyond golf, the clubhouse serves as a stunning venue for weddings, tournaments, and corporate gatherings, making it an unforgettable destination both on and off the course.
Playing Tips for Visitors
Playing Tips for Visitors
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Off the Tee: Keep your driver in check — placement trumps distance with many fairways guarded by water or bunkers.
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Approach Shots: Target the center of greens. Dye’s greens often have severe run-offs and tight pin positions.
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Mental Game: Patience is key — TPC Louisiana rewards smart course management far more than aggressive risk-taking.
Tee Times and Rates
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Public Access: Yes (open to all)
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Greens Fees:
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Louisiana Residents: From $89
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Non-Residents: From $129
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Memberships Available: Annual and weekday options
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Website for Booking: tpc.com/louisiana
If you’re a golf lover anywhere near the Gulf Coast, TPC Louisiana is a pilgrimage worth making. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of the PGA Tour’s best or test your nerve against a Pete Dye masterpiece, this course delivers a truly unforgettable experience — all with that unmistakable Cajun flavor only New Orleans can offer.
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