Two Fry/Straka Designs Climb Golfweek’s Top 100 Public Course List
In Golfweek’s newly released 2026 rankings of the Top 100 public-access golf courses in the United States, we are incredibly honored to have two of our celebrated designs make this prestigious list: Erin Hills in Wisconsin and The South Course at Arcadia Bluffs in Michigan. Even more exciting, both properties moved up the leaderboard this year, climbing higher into the ranks of America’s elite public tracks.
At Fry/Straka, our guiding philosophy is "Creative Distinction." We strive to look at the limitless varieties of natural terrain to craft strategic, memorable, and environmentally sustainable golf courses that offer completely unique experiences. Seeing both of these distinct layouts recognized—and continuing to gain momentum on a national scale—is a true testament to that vision.
Erin Hills (Erin, Wisconsin): Famously described by USGA CEO Mike Whan as "the Field of Dreams for golf," Erin Hills continues its upward trajectory in the rankings. Carved beautifully out of a dramatic glacial landscape, it continues to captivate everyday public players and elite championship fields alike with its grand scale, pure routing, and thrilling competitive edge.
The South Course at Arcadia Bluffs (Arcadia, Michigan): Located just a mile from the shores of Lake Michigan, the South Course also climbed the list this year. Designed as a deliberate tribute to the Golden Age of golf architecture, it draws strategic inspiration from historic layouts like Chicago Golf Club. The course relies on bold, geometric bunkering, squared-off green contours, and open, wind-buffeted fairways to offer a masterclass in the ground game and tactical angles.
We want to extend a massive thank you to the incredible ownership, management, and agronomy teams at both Erin Hills and Arcadia Bluffs. Their tireless commitment to maintaining world-class conditioning and elevating the guest experience year after year is what allows our architectural visions to truly shine and ascend these prestigious rankings.
Most importantly, thank you to the golfers who visit, walk, and enjoy these courses. If you haven’t had the chance to cross these two climbing gems off your bucket list yet, we highly encourage you to book a tee time and experience them firsthand!