News Summary
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course in Orlando, Florida, has undergone a major renovation, enhancing the golfing experience since its inception in 1971. The highlight of the makeover is a challenging new stretch called Grumpy’s Gauntlet, featuring tightly designed holes that test players’ skills. Designed by Ken Baker and his team, this renovation not only celebrates the magic of Disney but also introduces new features like an 18-hole putting green, ensuring fun for golfers of all levels. With its revamped design, the course invites both seasoned players and newcomers to enjoy its beauty and challenges.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course Unveils Extensive Renovation with “Grumpy’s Gauntlet”
Orlando, Florida – Get ready to swing into excitement as Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course has just revealed its most impressive renovation since it first opened its doors back in 1971! This beloved course, which has played host to many famous PGA Tour events and witnessed iconic wins by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, is now back and better than ever.
The revamped Magnolia Course is now open to the public following a comprehensive multi-year makeover that focuses on enhancing the overall golfing experience. Among all the changes, one particular highlight is the newly designed back nine, where players will encounter a thrilling stretch of holes known as Grumpy’s Gauntlet.
Welcome to Grumpy’s Gauntlet!
For all the golf enthusiasts out there, hold onto your hats! Grumpy’s Gauntlet offers four of the most challenging consecutive holes in Central Florida. This special stretch presents a mentally and physically demanding sequence that will certainly put your skills to the test. Featuring tight doglegs, intimidating large bunkers, tricky water hazards, and beautifully undulating greens, it’s an experience that promises to keep players on their toes.
The course renovation, dubbed the largest in Magnolia’s 54-year history, has a lot more going for it. Each of the reimagined holes—14 through 17—has brought new thrills and challenges. For instance, hole 14 is a par-4 that features a green sloping away from the center on all sides, making approach shots a tricky endeavor. Then you have the par-5 hole 15, stretching a whopping 597 yards from the back tees, inviting you to either tackle a long-distance shot or strategize smartly.
Moving on to hole 16, which is a par-4 measuring 456 yards, you’ll need to navigate around two bodies of water that occupy the left side of the green. It’s both a beautiful and daunting sight! Finishing strong is hole 17, a par-3 that sets up yet another challenge with water flanking both sides and a green sporting multiple slopes. Precision is key if you want to make par!
A Little Disney Magic
The redesign of the Magnolia Course was led by the talented team at One Club Limited, led by designer Ken Baker, who aimed to create a golf experience that feels uniquely Disney while still being a challenge for seasoned players. In true Disney fashion, every hole has its own theme, featuring clever quotes from Walt Disney himself or the beloved golf legend Arnold Palmer.
Adding to the excitement is a brand-new 18-hole putting green called The Greatest Green Ever Played. This new feature complements the overall golfing experience at the resort and ensures that there’s something fun for golfers of all skill levels.
Continuing the Legacy
Disney’s commitment to continually upgrading the golfing experience doesn’t just stop with Magnolia. Other courses at Walt Disney World, like the Palm Golf Course and the Oak Trail Golf Course, have also seen their own updates in recent years. The Magnolia Course, now measuring a total of 7,560 yards from its longest tee, proudly stands as the longest of Disney’s four golf courses, inviting golfers to challenge themselves amidst the beautiful scenery.
With elevated tees and greens, rolling terrain, and special features like a Mickey Mouse-shaped greenside bunker, the course not only provides a challenging game but also ensures that the magic of Disney is felt on every swing. So, dust off those golf clubs and get ready to experience the newly renovated Magnolia Golf Course! Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, a round at these scenic greens is sure to bring joy and adventure!
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Additional Resources
- WESH: Disney Magnolia Golf Course New and Improved
- Wikipedia: Disney Golf
- Fox 35 Orlando: Grumpy’s Gauntlet at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course
- Google Search: Disney Magnolia Golf Course
- Golfweek: Disney World Magnolia Golf Course Renovation Complete
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Click Orlando: Grumpy’s Gauntlet Challenges Disney Golfers
- Google News: Disney Golf Course

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.