The Inside Swing

SentryWorld Golf Course

Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Public Course · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 6,951 yds · $60–$120 · 4.5

Host of the 2023 U.S. Senior Open, SentryWorld is a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design in Stevens Point that has long been considered the best public course in Wisconsin. The famous par-3 16th, the "Flower Hole," features 33,000 individually planted flowers creating the most photographed hole in the Midwest.

History & Heritage

SentryWorld opened in 1982, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and built by Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point. Hosted the 2023 U.S. Senior Open (won by Richard Bland). Ranked No. 49 on Golf Digest\'s 100 Greatest Public Courses (2025).

The legendary "Flower Hole" (16th) is surrounded by 50,000+ flowers — what the course calls the "best-smelling hole in golf." A visual spectacle unlike anything else in the game, maintained by a dedicated horticultural team and replanted annually.

Signature Holes

16
Hole 16 Par 3 · 165 yards

The legendary "Flower Hole" — surrounded by 50,000+ individually planted flowers. The most photographed hole in the Midwest and what the course calls the "best-smelling hole in golf." Despite the visual drama, it plays as a straightforward par 3 — focus on the pin, not the petals.

What to Expect

Parkland-style with significant water, immaculate conditioning, and upscale amenities. More resort-like than typical public fare. The course was closed for two seasons before the 2023 Senior Open to reach championship standard.

Public at $60-120. Consistently ranks in Wisconsin\'s top 5.

Playing Tips

Water hazards are the primary defense. Club selection and management around ponds/streams is critical.

The Flower Hole (16th) plays straightforward despite the spectacle. Focus on the pin, not the flowers.

Highlights

  • 2023 U.S. Senior Open host
  • Famous "Flower Hole" par 3 with 33,000 flowers
  • Widely regarded as Wisconsin's best public course

Frequently Asked Questions

How many flowers on the Flower Hole?
Over 50,000 individually planted flowers surrounding the par-3 16th. Maintained by a dedicated horticultural team and replanted annually.

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