REVIEW: TPC Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada.  I am not quite sure what it is about Las Vegas, but it has my heart.  From my first visit in 2000, there has always been something about this city that drew me in and held my attention for the last 19 years.  During my inaugural trip in 2000, one my first experiences with Las Vegas golf was TPC Vegas.  At the time, it was referred to TPC Canyons.  In fact, it was the first TPC course that I had ever played.  TPC Vegas, is one of the reasons that draws me back twice a year.

​TPC Vegas opened its gates in 1996.  From 1996-2006, TPC Las Vegas played host to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children Open, the Bard Capital Challenge, and the Las Vegas Senior Classic.  Designed by Bobby Weed and Raymond Floyd, TPC Las Vegas is a Par 71 stretching to 7,104 yards from the tips.  My home course is also a Bobby Weed design that was built on sandy soil farmland just east of Minneapolis.  It has a lot of the forced carry, desert style wash areas that are also the signature of TPC Las Vegas.
 

When the plane landed at McCarran International in February, I hadn’t hit a golf ball in close to four months.  It seems like par for the course each time I tee it up at TPC Las Vegas.  This, as I try to find my golf game (never have), probably contributes to the notion that TPC Las Vegas is probably one of the most challenging layouts I have played.  That fact aside, it is also one of my favorite courses that I have played and why it keeps bringing me back and drawing me in.

TPC Las Vegas is a challenging, yet extremely entertaining golf course.  TPC Las Vegas, from the perspective of a 12 handicap, really does not have rough.  There seems to be some level of first cut, but beyond that, a lot of holes are commonly surrounded by desert wash or on the back nine, deep canyons.  If you’re not on your game, the course can be penal. However, what really makes the course unique and fun is the very reason that it is penal.  If you’re a player that is not as long, or not as accurate, there are a number of forward teeing options that take carries and “trouble” out of play.

Model: @SPYZINGER – Bench Press: Yes, often.
 
The signature hole at TPC Las Vegas embodies everything I am describing and is the desert version of 17th at TPC Sawgrass.  From the tips, the #2 hole at TPC Las Vegas is a 196 yard par 3 that puts a premium on shotmaking.  It is an island green of sorts that is surrounded by desert canyons.  Come up long, short, or pulled left, your ball is gone forever.  That said, it’s one of the most beautiful par 3 holes you’ll ever lock eyes on.
Model: @LeahGruber - Squats: Before Breakfast

Over the years, there are a few consistencies I can always expect at TPC Las Vegas.  The conditions are always impeccable.  TPC Las Vegas is manicured to perfection like any other TPC golf course you’ve played.  The staff is always welcoming and friendly.  Walking into the clubhouse, your first impression of the course will be the staff.  TPC Las Vegas treats you like you’ve been a member for years.  Another consistency is the pace of play.  TPC Las Vegas has been played in four hours or less, every time I have played it, despite its challenge and expanse.

There are a couple notable specials being offered by TPC Las Vegas this spring.  The first of which is the TPC Las Vegas Buddies Package which includes:

  • 3 night stay on the Las Vegas Strip at the ARIA, Bellagio, the Mirage or the Delano
  • A free swing analysis using FlightScope Technology with our PGA Director of Instruction, Matt Henderson
  • (1) Round of golf at TPC Las Vegas
  • (1) Round of golf at Paiute Wolf
  • $100 per person credit to Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
  • $100 per person credit to Javier’s Authentic Mexican at the ARIA
  • Shuttle transportation to and from courses
  • For Groups of 8-16 players
  • Starting at $899


If you’re in town on business and didn’t have room for your clubs, TPC Las Vegas has a package designed for the convention or business traveler.  The spring No-Hassle special features one round of golf with rental clubs for $225.  They have rental sets loaded with the latest equipment from TaylorMade, Callaway, Cobra, and Titleist.

*If you don’t notice the shoes, you’re missing out.
 
Whether you’re in the desert on vacation on the famous Las Vegas Strip, or in town for a convention, if golf is on the agenda, make your way in a 20 minute Uber ride out to TPC Las Vegas.  The impeccable conditions, friendly staff, and rugged desert terrain is a must play.  Premium rental clubs make this day trip a desert breeze!