Gateway National Golf Links

Madison, Illinois

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 71 · 7,174 yds · $40–$75 · 4.2

A Keith Foster links-style design across the river in Madison, Illinois, Gateway National offers windswept, treeless golf with views of the St. Louis skyline and Gateway Arch. The layout through reclaimed wetlands features firm-and-fast conditions, fescue rough, and pot bunkers unusual for the region.

History & Heritage

Gateway National opened in 1998, designed by Keith Foster with Kevin Hargrave on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River in Madison — the only true links-style course in the St. Louis metro area. Features bentgrass fairways and greens, one of the few public courses in the region with that distinction.

Panoramic views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis skyline from multiple holes make it uniquely photogenic. Located just 10 minutes from the Arch. Claims the title of No. 1 public golf course in St. Louis.

Signature Holes

Hole 10 Par 4 · 280 yards

A driveable par 4 over a small creek running in front of the green. Many holes offer Gateway Arch and St. Louis skyline views in the background — the course\'s most distinctive visual feature.

What to Expect

A wide-open, windswept links layout through native grasses — wind is a major factor. Links-style hazards including fescue rough, pot bunkers, and minimal tree cover. The design rewards bump-and-run ground-game options.

Bentgrass fairways and greens — rare for public golf in the region. Course rating 74.2, slope 127 from 7,178-yard tips.

Public at $40-75. 10 minutes from the Gateway Arch.

Playing Tips

Wind management is essential. Club up/down and consider ground-game options — the links design rewards bump-and-run shots.

Bentgrass surfaces are typically in very good condition. The firmness favors running approaches.

Play appropriate tees — 7,178 yards plays long, especially into the wind.

Highlights

✓ Links-style with St. Louis Arch views
✓ Keith Foster firm-and-fast design
✓ Reclaimed wetlands with fescue and pot bunkers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you really see the Gateway Arch?

Yes — panoramic views of the Arch and St. Louis skyline from multiple holes. Located just 10 minutes from the Arch.

Is it really links-style?

Yes — the only true links-style course in the St. Louis metro. Wide open, windswept, fescue rough, pot bunkers, minimal trees. Designed by Keith Foster.

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