Experience Golf at its Best at the World Golf Hall of Fame

I wouldn’t necessarily say that I’m the biggest golf fan in the world; I don’t even play the sport. My partner of ten years though is a passionate golfer with a scratch handicap and has taught me the finer parts of the game and its history. That’s why even someone like me was excited as we pulled up to the World Golf Hall of Fame at the World Golf Village near St. Augustine, Florida.

We were in St. Augustine on a long weekend getaway. That’s something I love about Florida, there’s so much to do and see it makes taking holidays in Florida not only easy but an absolute pleasure. St. Augustine is decidedly different though. It’s a quirky, laid back community known more for its artists than anything else. For a change of pace though there is nothing better than the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Even though the current facility only opened in 1998, it’s the result of a long effort around the world to recognize excellence in golf. Formally, the World Golf Hall of fame was located in Pinehurst, North Carolina but when the PGA of America purchased the institution in the late 80s, everything changed. Eventually the Pinehurst Hall of Fame merged with the PGA and LPGA Halls of Fame and in 1994 efforts to construct a single World Golf Hall of Fame began.

To be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame is the sport’s highest honor, as demonstrated by the fact that only 130 people have earned this designation. The museum doesn’t just recognize these giants in the sport though; it recounts the history of golf from its most humble of beginnings. In what is without a doubt one of the best museums I’ve ever visited, guests not only get a chance to read about the sport, but to participate in key moments. Putting greens have been recreated and visitors can enjoy once in a lifetime golf experiences.

The most moving aspects though are reserved for those legends who are proud members of the Hall of Fame. Exhibits recognizing each inductee share with the world some of their most prized golf possessions and which, in their totality, represent astounding careers. Towards the end of the museum is a recreation of a club locker room, but it’s much more than that. As visitors open each wooden locker door they are greeted with mementos from many of the inductees, allowing an intimate look into the lives of these sport heroes.

At first glance a visit to the World Golf Hall of Fame may not seem the ideal afternoon activity for everyone, but thanks to some expert curation I promise that even the most dubious of guests will be captivated by this remarkable institution.