The Cradle at Pinehurst

The Cradle opened in 2017, designed by Gil Hanse — the architect behind the 2016 Olympic Course in Rio de Janeiro and the restoration of Pinehurst No. 4. This 9-hole, par-27 short course spans just 789 yards with no hole longer than 127 yards, but it has become one of the most talked-about golf experiences in America.

Built on Pinehurst resort land between the practice facility and the Pinehurst Brewing Company, The Cradle was conceived as a way to grow the game and create a pure, joyful golf experience accessible to everyone. Walking only, no tee times required — just show up, grab a wedge and putter, and play.

Despite being a short course, The Cradle incorporates genuine Sandhills green complexes with the same wire grass, native sand, and rolling terrain that define Pinehurst No. 2. It has become the must-play addition to any Pinehurst trip and a model for short-course design nationwide.

The Cradle is pure, joyful golf distilled to its essence. Nine par-3 holes under 127 yards each, played walking-only with just a wedge and putter. No tee times needed — show up and play. Multiple loops in a session are common and encouraged.

Don't mistake "short" for "simple." The greens are full-sized Sandhills putting surfaces with the same wire grass, native sand waste areas, and contours found on Pinehurst No. 2. The chipping and putting challenge is legitimate. Hanse designed the course to be fun for beginners while rewarding skilled short-game players.

The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in golf — families, juniors, seasoned players, and first-timers all sharing the same holes. The adjacent Pinehurst Brewing Company and Thistle Dhu putting course complete the experience.

Bring only a wedge (or two) and a putter. That's all you need.

The greens play like real Pinehurst greens — firm, fast, and contoured. Treat every approach like a precision short-game shot, not a casual flip.

Play multiple loops. The experience changes with different pin positions and wind conditions. Many visitors play 2-3 loops in a session.

This is a walking-only course. Embrace the pace and the atmosphere — it's designed to be relaxed and social.