Wilmington

About two hours southeast of his much higher profile design at Pinehurst No. 2, Donald Ross created a more low-key but enjoyable muni. His original plans were used during a 2014 renovation to restore the greens back to their classic look and feel, including plenty of false fronts — but without the severe crowns found at No. 2. This walker’s paradise features a seamless routing with parallel holes. The front nine forms an outside loop that encircles the back nine. The course looks straightforward but is deceptively challenging. The four par-3s (including the bunker-less 4th with a two-tiered green perched on a hill) move in different directions, which means wind off the Atlantic Ocean, four miles to the east, always impacts club selection. Fees: $37–$40, non-residents; $27–$30, New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender County residents. (Photo: John N. Domoney)