Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge

A Guest’s Perspective on Bay Hill Country Club I recently had the chance to spend several days at Bay Hill Country Club, and it more than lived up to its reputation. From the moment you pull into the property, everything is manicured and intentional—the kind of understated elegance you only see at venues with decades of history behind them. Course & Practice Facilities The golf course is the star of the show, and rightly so. Even if you’ve only seen it on TV during the Arnold Palmer Invitational, playing it in person is an entirely different experience. The layout demands smart course management—water hazards and well-placed bunkers make you think on every shot—but it’s fair. Tee boxes were immaculate, greens rolled true and fast, and the rough was exactly the kind of thick, punishing grass that rewards accuracy. The practice range, short-game area, and putting greens are also first-class and never felt overcrowded, even during peak times. Clubhouse & Atmosphere Inside, the clubhouse blends tradition with comfort. There are plenty of nods to Arnold Palmer and the tournament’s history—photos, memorabilia, and subtle touches that make the place feel like a living museum of golf. Yet it doesn’t feel stuffy or off-limits. Staff and members alike were welcoming and genuinely seemed proud to have guests experience the club. Dining & Hospitality Food service deserves its own mention. Breakfast in the dining room came out quickly and was better than most upscale resorts I’ve stayed at. Lunch on the terrace overlooking the course is the perfect way to cool down after a round. Portions are generous without being overdone, and the servers hit the right balance of professionalism and warmth. Lodging & Amenities If you’re staying overnight, the lodge rooms are spacious and well-maintained, with comfortable beds and balconies or patios that look out on either the course or the pool. The fitness center and spa facilities are modern and clean, and there’s a casual pool area for families or non-golfers who want to relax. Parking is easy, and everything on the property feels walkable. Overall Impression What impressed me most was the club’s ability to feel both exclusive and approachable. You’re surrounded by golf history, but you’re also treated like a valued guest, not an outsider. Every staff interaction—from the bag drop to the pro shop to housekeeping—was polite, efficient, and genuine. It’s the kind of place where you can tell the culture starts at the top and everyone buys in. If you’re a golfer visiting Orlando or the surrounding area, Bay Hill Country Club should be on your bucket list. Whether you’re coming for a round, a tournament, or a full weekend stay, it delivers the full championship-course experience plus resort-level hospitality. I left with a greater appreciation for the tradition of the game and already want to plan my return trip.