Tunica National Golf: Championship Golf With a Designerโs Touch
Tunica National Golf & Tennis offers a truly exceptional and comprehensive golf experience in the Mid-South region. Guests are immediately welcomed by the legendary starter, Bill Speck, whose renowned friendliness embodies the course’s commitment to outstanding hospitality. This sets the stage for a dedicated staff focused on making every visit special and memorable.
The centerpiece is an 18-hole championship course, masterfully designed by Mark McCumber. McCumber, a former PGA TOUR professional, crafted a layout that brilliantly combines strategic challenges with aesthetic beauty and playability. The course encourages thoughtful shot selection without being overly punitive, featuring generous fairways for confident drives and meticulously designed greens and bunkers that reward precision and strategic play.
The course culminates in a dramatic finish at the iconic par-4 18th hole, widely considered one of the Mid-South’s most captivating closers. This hole demands both boldness and accuracy off the tee, with water flanking the entire left side and a fairway gently curving towards the hazard. Golfers brave enough to hug the left side gain a superior angle into a picturesque green, beautifully framed by water and bunkers. This creates a thrilling and high-stakes approach shot, often determining the outcome of a match or friendly wager, and leaving a lasting impression on players.
Golfers attack the risk-reward 18th at Tunica National, carrying the water to a stunning green set against the clubhouse and Delta sky.
Complementing the championship course are some of the region’s best practice facilities. These include a spacious double-sided driving range, an extensive short-game area, and a large putting green, perfect for pre-round warm-ups or dedicated game improvement.
A Proven Host for Major Events
Tunica National has established itself as a leading tournament venue in the Mid-South, regularly hosting prestigious events and attracting strong competitive fields. Its impressive track record includes state championships, collegiate tournaments, and significant charity outings, drawing participants from across the wider region.
A highlight is the annual Penny Hardaway charity golf tournament, a prominent event uniting athletes, celebrities, and supporters. This tournament raises funds for youth programs and community initiatives, having become a regional favorite, lauded equally for its noble cause and the outstanding golfing experience offered by Tunica National.
Further enhancing its reputation, Tunica National has been selected as a U.S. Open Local Qualifier site. This distinction is awarded only to courses that adhere to the USGA’s rigorous standards for course conditioning, layout, and competitive integrity. Hosting such an event places Tunica National among an elite group and affirms the championship design expertise of Mark McCumber. For recreational golfers, the opportunity to play a course deemed worthy of U.S. Open qualifying significantly elevates the sense of excitement and prestige.
Beyond these major events, the courseโs versatility is showcased by its hosting of corporate outings, regional amateur championships, and community tournaments. Tunica National’s staff is highly regarded for executing seamless and professional events, managing everything from pairings and scoring to hospitality and logistics with an efficiency and finesse that ensures organizations consistently return.
A Pro Shop and Restaurant That Elevates the Experience
The golf experience is further enhanced by a well-appointed pro shop, a popular stop for visiting golfers. It offers a thoughtfully curated selection of apparel, accessories, golf balls, gloves, and exclusive Tunica National branded merchandise, perfect for essentials or memorable souvenirs. The knowledgeable and amiable staff are always on hand to assist with equipment needs or provide valuable course insights.
Adjacent to the pro shop, the onsite restaurant provides a welcoming setting for a pre-round meal, a relaxed post-game unwind, or a quick snack at the turn. The menu features satisfying dishes that cater to various tastes, ideal whether you’re fueling up for the day or celebrating a successful round. Its casual ambiance and attentive service make it a perfect social hub for golfers.
Indoor Clay Tennis Courts for YearโRound Play
Beyond golf, Tunica National boasts an exceptional tennis facility: state-of-the-art indoor clay courts, enabling year-round play. Clay courts are highly valued for their forgiving surface and strategic game pace, and the indoor setting guarantees consistent conditions irrespective of external weather.
These premium courts have been the site of USTA events, regional tournaments, and instructional clinics, attracting tennis enthusiasts from Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas. For those who appreciate combining tennis with their golf travels, this facility presents a unique and compelling dual-sport opportunity.
Gold Strike Casino: Upscale Comfort for StayโandโPlay Guests
The Tunica National experience is greatly enhanced by accommodations at Gold Strike Casino, conveniently located mere minutes from the course. Gold Strike is renowned for its impeccably clean, modern, and upscale environment, providing a level of luxury that elevates any stay-and-play package. From the moment guests enter, the sophisticated lobby, attentive staff, and refined ambiance confirm its status as a premier resort, far surpassing a standard casino hotel.
Upscale rooms, great food, and big-name entertainmentโGold Strike Casino elevates every Tunica National golf trip.
Guest rooms are meticulously designed, featuring sumptuous bedding, expansive layouts, and contemporary decor that balances style with comfort. Many rooms provide panoramic views of the tranquil Delta, offering a serene retreat after a day on the links. Modern amenities, including large flat-screen TVs, comfortable seating, and well-appointed bathrooms, ensure maximum relaxation. For groups or friends traveling together, Gold Strike’s room configurations and superior comfort make it an excellent choice.
Beyond the luxurious rooms, the property offers an array of conveniences that optimize the stay-and-play experience. These include ample parking, swift elevator access, and an intuitive layout that allows for effortless transitions between dining, entertainment, and guest accommodations. Every aspect is streamlined, refined, and centered around guest satisfaction.
Dining, Sports, and Entertainment
Gold Strike provides diverse dining experiences to satisfy every palate. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast before a tee time, a leisurely lunch, or a sophisticated dinner after a full day of activities. The restaurants consistently offer quality and variety, ranging from comforting classics to refined entrees. Quick-service options are also available for golfers seeking a swift bite before their round.
A notable amenity is the sports book, an energetic yet comfortable venue ideal for catching the latest games. Featuring large screens, plush lounge seating, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to relax with friends or enjoy a post-round drink. While the casino floor offers a full range of table games and slots, Gold Strike expertly maintains an upscale, balanced ambiance, ensuring guests are never overwhelmed by excessive noise or visual clutter. It truly offers entertainment tailored to individual preferences.
Close to Memphis, the Blues Trail, and Legendary BBQ
Tunica National’s strategic location significantly enhances its allure. Being a short drive from Memphis means visitors can effortlessly explore the city’s profound musical legacy, dynamic culture, and famous landmarks, including Beale Street, Sun Studio, and the National Civil Rights Museum.
Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the close proximity to authentic Memphis BBQ, renowned for its slow-smoked ribs, succulent pulled pork, and signature dry-rub specialties. Additionally, the region is dotted with essential stops on the Mississippi Blues Trail, providing ample opportunities to delve into the Delta’s rich musical heritage.
These enriching cultural and culinary excursions transform any golf trip into a more profound and unforgettable adventure.
A Persuasive Case for Your Next Golf Trip
Tunica National Golf & Tennis delivers a complete, refined, and exceptionally welcoming stay-and-play experience that truly distinguishes it within the Mid-South. The championship course is exquisitely designed, meticulously maintained, and crafted to offer a memorable round for golfers of all proficiencies. From arrival, the staff cultivates an inviting atmosphereโprofessional, genuinely friendly, and dedicated to making every visit special. Their comprehensive attention to detail, from initial check-in through post-round hospitality, adds a personalized touch that consistently draws guests back.
Combined with the luxurious accommodations and entertainment options at Gold Strike Casino, and complemented by the rich cultural offerings of nearby Memphis, Tunica National emerges as one of the most attractive golf destinations in the entire Mid-South.
