Meridian, MS

For a day of affordable golf there are few places better than Meridian, where you can play a round for less than a dollar a hole. Sure, the courses might not be of championship caliber, and scratch golfers might find the layouts less than challenging. But for the majority of golfers who like to try to break par without breaking the bank, Meridian is the perfect place to be.

The city-run Lakeview Golf Course is ideal for newcomers to the sport or for those who simply want to enjoy a casual, inexpensive day on the links. The par-70 course opened in 1955 and is only 5,674 yards long, so you don’t have to be a heavy hitter to post a good score. There are a few short par-4s that experienced golfers might be able to reach with their drive off the tee.

Despite its lack of length, Lakeview has several obstacles along the way that prevent it from being too easy. The Long Creek Reservoir comes into play throughout the layout, the fairways are lined with trees, and the greens are extremely small and guarded by bunkers.

One of the biggest appeals of Lakeview is the price. Those who walk the course can play a full 18 holes for only $12 during the week and $14 on the weekend. A cart can be rented for $10 per person, keeping total fees under $25.

Similar value can be found at the Ponta Creek Golf Club, especially for military members. Ponta Creek is located on the grounds of the Meridian Naval Air Station and is managed by the Navy Golf Program, but it is open to civilians with a valid driver’s license. Greens fees, even with a cart, rarely top $20, and military members can play for half that price.

Because the Meridian NAS is located well outside the heart of the city, the 6,595-yard course is extremely scenic. The fairways are wide and forgiving, but with so many trees around, a wayward drive can be hard to find.

The tree that causes the most obvious problems is on hole No. 3, a 458-yard par-4. There is a large cedar tree in the middle of the fairway, and if the tee shots lands near that tree it creates a difficult approach shot to one of the smaller greens on the course.

There also are two private-course options in Meridian. Northwood Country Club, which opened in 1929, has held several state amateur championships on its 6,212-yard layout. Renowned golf instructor Eddie Merrins works out of Northwood. And Briarwood Country Club is a long (6,742 yards), hilly course that can provide a stern test of golf.