Nestled in Orlando, Florida is the iconic Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge. Most commonly known for the annual PGA Tour event, this resort offers much more than the annual hype that comes around in March.
The Bay Hill Club opened in 1961 with 18 holes designed by Dick Wilson. In 1965, Arnold Palmer played in an exhibition match with Jack Nicklaus, Don Cherry, and Dave Ragen and fell in love with the property that day.
By 1970, a group of investors took control of the Club and by 1976, he purchased it outright. And, thus the Palmer era at Bay Hill began.
Bay Hill is a golfer’s paradise where you’ll play your heart out. Check out the top 9 reasons you should travel here for your next golf getaway.
1. The Ambiance
The ambiance of The Lodge at Bay Hill reflects the classic sense of style and gracious hospitality of Arnold and Winnie Palmer. From the moment you arrive, there’s something in the air that makes a golfer’s heart beat a little faster. Living up to its mantra, this club is like no other.
2. You Can Stay & Play
That’s right! Registered Lodge guests enjoy all the privileges of membership during their stay.
Take advantage of the ultimate stay and play package from May 15 through September 30. The Heart Of A Champion Golf Package offers the best value with an inclusive rate that includes deluxe accommodations, a round of golf, and daily breakfast. Rates vary on the date of stay.
3. Bay Hill Hummer
You can’t pass this drink up! The signature beverage is The Bay Hill Hummer is a favorite in the Members Lounge. This refreshing beverage –made from vodka, dark crème de cacao, brandy, and vanilla bean ice cream — is a heavenly treat at the end of a busy day.
4. 27 Holes of Golf
The Challenger/Champion and Charger nine courses feature 27 holes of tour championship golf. These courses provide amateur and professional golfers alike a challenge yet fair type of play.
Also available is a newly renovated Driving Range complete with greens and targets perfect for shot shaping and the putting green on which the famed Rolex clock stands.
5. Close to Airport + Attractions
The Orlando International Airport (MCO) and the private Orlando Executive Airport (OEA) are both less than 15 miles away. This makes travel to and from the resort a breeze.
Bay Hill is also conveniently located just 3 miles from Universal Studios, 4 miles from SeaWorld Orlando and 5 miles from the Walt Disney World Resort. So, when you want to take a break from the course for a day, it’s only a short trip for a bit of adventure.
6. Arnold Palmer Golf Academy on Site
Learn the fundamentals of the game through the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy. Academy programs are broken down into four key areas — Mastering the Fundamentals, Scoring Zone, Practice Like a Pro, and Course Management.
7. Bass Fish on Down Time
If you need time to cool down from your bogey on your last hole, head on over to the marina. Located on the Butler Chain of Lakes, you can enjoy some bass fishing to help get your head back in the game! Or, if one your buddies just want to tag along for a nice relaxing getaway and isn’t into golf, he can chill here while you tee-it-up.
8. Great Dining
Enjoy breakfast or lunch in the casual elegance of the Grill & Classic Rooms. Choose from a variety of fresh seafood, prime choice beef, as well as traditional Southern cuisine.
The Bay Window features a variety of scrumptious appetizers, salads, flatbreads, and hand-tossed pizza. The Bay Window Lounge is the perfect place to unwind with a refreshing beverage while watching three flat-screen televisions.
For those in the mood for lighter fare and an alfresco ambiance, Splash Casual Poolside Dining offers indoor and outdoor dining poolside. Menu selections include starters, freshly made salads, wraps, burgers, and daily specials.
The Members Lounge is a cozy fireside bar serving fine wines, beer and cocktails; it’s the perfect setting for members and guests to relax and enjoy the considerable charm of the Bay Hill Club in the company of friends.
9. Short Game Practice Facility
The Short Game Practice Facility features 90,000 square feet of greens and seven bunkers of varying types/styles such as the Pot Bunker, a revetted bunker with a 5′ face, designed in the style of bunkers most notably found at St. Andrews and across Scotland, and a geometric bottom bunker reminiscent of the style of C. B. McDonald during the Golden Age of Architecture in the 1920’s.
Getting There
Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge offers registered guests the experience of a lifetime. You’ll play your heart out here and enjoy every second of it.
Shipping your golf clubs and luggage here is easy with Ship Sticks. Once you’ve booked your stay at The Lodge at Bay Hill, you can schedule your shipment online to send your clubs and luggage ahead. Your next golf getaway is calling, and Bay Hill is waiting for you is sunny Florida.