Best Disc Golf Courses in New Orleans for All Players

Disc golf, a rapidly growing sport that blends traditional golf with the excitement of frisbee throwing, has found a thriving community in New Orleans. With its mild climate and abundance of parks, the city offers a variety of disc golf courses catering to players of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned pros.

In This Article

TL;DR

Disc golf has surged in popularity in New Orleans, attracting enthusiasts from all walks of life.
The city boasts a variety of courses, ranging from beginner-friendly layouts to challenging championship-level designs.
A vibrant disc golf community has emerged, fostering camaraderie and hosting regular events and tournaments.

Understanding Disc Golf

Disc golf traces its origins back to the 1960s when recreational players in California began tossing Frisbees into elevated baskets on the course. Over the decades, the sport has evolved into a globally recognized activity, with standardized rules, equipment, and course designs.

The objective is straightforward: players throw a disc from a designated tee area toward a target basket, aiming to complete the hole in the fewest throws possible. Each hole is assigned a par rating, similar to traditional golf, and players keep score by counting their total throws.

Beyond the physical benefits of walking and exercising outdoors, disc golf offers a unique social experience. Players often form groups and engage in friendly competition, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie on the course.

Top Disc Golf Courses in New Orleans

City Park Disc Golf Course

Situated within the lush confines of City Park, one of the oldest and largest urban parks in the United States, lies the City Park Disc Golf Course. This 18-hole layout, designed by renowned course architect John Houck, offers a challenging yet fair test for players of all abilities.

The course winds through mature oak trees and scenic waterways, presenting a variety of obstacles and elevation changes that demand precision and strategy. Hole 17, a picturesque par 4 that plays alongside a tranquil pond, is a particular highlight and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Address: 1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124

Lafreniere Park Disc Golf Course

Located in Metairie, a suburb of New Orleans, Lafreniere Park Disc Golf Course is a hidden gem that has garnered a loyal following. This 18-hole course, designed by local disc golf enthusiasts, features a variety of challenges, including tight fairways, strategically placed trees, and water hazards.

The course’s signature hole is the par 4 13th, which requires players to navigate a narrow fairway flanked by dense foliage before reaching the basket perched atop a small hill. Lafreniere Park also hosts regular league play and tournaments, making it a hub for the local disc golf community.

Address: 3000 Downs Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70131

Other Notable Courses

While City Park and Lafreniere Park are the standout courses in the area, New Orleans offers several other notable disc golf destinations for players to explore:

Brechtel Park Disc Golf Course (Algiers): A 9-hole course perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick round.
Bayou Segnette State Park Disc Golf Course (Westwego): A challenging 18-hole course set amidst the natural beauty of the state park.
Fontainebleau State Park Disc Golf Course (Mandeville): A scenic 18-hole course located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain.

Planning Your Disc Golf Experience

Best Times of Year to Play

New Orleans enjoys a subtropical climate, making disc golf a year-round activity. However, the spring and fall months are often considered the most pleasant times to play, with mild temperatures and lower humidity levels.

During the summer months, it’s advisable to plan rounds early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat and humidity. Additionally, be prepared for the occasional afternoon thunderstorm, which can temporarily halt play.

Tips for Beginners

For those new to disc golf, the courses in New Orleans offer a welcoming environment to learn and improve. Here are a few tips to help beginners get started:

Rent or purchase a beginner-friendly disc set, which typically includes a putter, mid-range, and driver disc.
Attend a local clinic or seek guidance from experienced players to learn proper throwing techniques and course etiquette.
Start with shorter, beginner-friendly courses like Brechtel Park or the front 9 at City Park to build confidence before tackling more challenging layouts.
Be patient and enjoy the process of learning a new sport. Disc golf has a steep but rewarding learning curve.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable disc golf experience, it’s essential to come prepared with the right gear and supplies:

A disc golf bag or backpack to carry your discs and accessories.
A water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your round.
Sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
A mini marker disc or small object to mark your lie (the spot where your previous throw landed).
A portable chair or stool for resting between holes (optional but recommended for longer rounds).

Navigating New Orleans for Disc Golf Enthusiasts

Getting Around

New Orleans is a compact and walkable city, making it easy to explore its disc golf courses on foot or by bike. However, for those traveling from further distances or with limited mobility, driving is a convenient option.

Many of the city’s disc golf courses offer ample parking, and some, like City Park, even have designated disc golf parking areas. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city.

Accommodations Near Disc Golf Courses

For disc golf enthusiasts planning an extended stay in New Orleans, there are several accommodation options located near the city’s top courses:

Near City Park: The Columns Hotel, a historic boutique hotel just a short walk from the park’s entrance.
Near Lafreniere Park: Numerous chain hotels and motels line Veterans Memorial Boulevard, providing easy access to the course.

Local Amenities and Facilities

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, and many of the city’s disc golf courses are conveniently located near a variety of dining options and other amenities:

City Park: The Park Cafe and Morning Call Coffee Stand offer refreshments and light fare within the park’s grounds.
Lafreniere Park: Numerous restaurants and shops line nearby Veterans Memorial Boulevard, catering to a range of tastes and budgets.

Engaging with the Local Disc Golf Community

Disc Golf Clubs and Organizations

New Orleans boasts an active and welcoming disc golf community, with several clubs and organizations dedicated to promoting and growing the sport:

Crescent City Disc Golf Club: One of the oldest and largest disc golf clubs in the area, hosting regular events and tournaments.
New Orleans Women’s Disc Golf Club: A supportive community for female players of all skill levels, fostering inclusivity and empowerment.
Louisiana Disc Golf Association: The governing body for disc golf in the state, overseeing tournaments, course development, and player ratings.

Joining Leagues and Tournaments

Participating in local leagues and tournaments is an excellent way to connect with fellow disc golfers, improve your skills, and experience the competitive side of the sport. Many of the clubs and organizations in New Orleans offer various league formats and host annual tournaments, such as:

City Park Doubles League: A weekly doubles league played on the City Park course during the spring and fall seasons.
Bayou State Disc Golf Series: A series of tournaments held throughout the year at various courses across Louisiana.

Connecting with Other Players

In addition to joining clubs and participating in events, there are several online platforms and social media groups where disc golfers in New Orleans can connect, share tips, and organize casual rounds:

New Orleans Disc Golf Facebook Group: An active community for discussing local courses, events, and arranging meetups.
UDisc App: A popular disc golf app that allows players to track their scores, find courses, and connect with others in the area.

Enhancing Your Disc Golf Skills in New Orleans

Local Resources for Improving Your Game

Whether you’re a beginner looking to develop a solid foundation or an experienced player seeking to take your game to the next level, New Orleans offers a variety of resources to help you improve:

Clinics and Lessons: Several local disc golf professionals and experienced players offer private lessons and group clinics covering various aspects of the game, from throwing techniques to course management.
Practice Facilities: While dedicated disc golf practice facilities are limited in the area, many local parks and open spaces can be utilized for field work and putting practice.

Shops and Retailers for Disc Golf Equipment

As the sport’s popularity continues to grow in New Orleans, so too does the availability of disc golf equipment and accessories. Several local retailers cater to the needs of disc golfers:

Play It Again Sports (Multiple Locations): A sporting goods store offering a wide selection of discs, bags, and accessories from top brands.
Disc Golf Pro Tour (Online): An online retailer based in New Orleans, providing a vast array of discs, apparel, and equipment for players of all levels.

When shopping for discs, it’s essential to consider factors such as speed, glide, and stability ratings to find the right fit for your skill level and throwing style.

Practice Areas and Lesser-Known Spots

While the city’s dedicated disc golf courses are the primary destinations for players, New Orleans also offers several lesser-known spots and practice areas for those looking to hone their skills:

Audubon Park: A beautiful urban park with open spaces suitable for field work and putting practice.
Lakeshore Drive: The scenic lakefront along Lake Pontchartrain provides ample room for long-distance throwing practice.
Local Schools and Universities: Many educational institutions in the area have open fields and spaces that can be utilized for disc golf practice when not in use.

Beyond the Course: Disc Golf Culture in New Orleans

Events and Festivals

Disc golf in New Orleans extends beyond the courses, with a vibrant culture and community surrounding the sport. Throughout the year, the city hosts various events and festivals that celebrate disc golf and its growing popularity:

Crescent City Classic Disc Golf Tournament: An annual tournament held in the spring, attracting players from across the region to compete on the City Park course.
Disc Golf Day in the Park: A family-friendly event held in City Park, featuring clinics, exhibitions, and activities for players of all ages and skill levels.

Local Disc Golf Heroes and Influencers

New Orleans has produced several notable disc golf players and influencers who have contributed to the growth and promotion of the sport both locally and nationally:

Nate Doss: A professional disc golfer and New Orleans native, Doss has won multiple major tournaments and is known for his powerful driving and consistent putting.
Valarie Jenkins: A pioneering figure in women’s disc golf, Jenkins has been instrumental in fostering a supportive and inclusive community for female players in the area.

The Role of Disc Golf in New Orleans’ Sports and Recreation Scene

While often overshadowed by the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant sports scene, disc golf has carved out a significant niche in New Orleans’ broader sports and recreation landscape. The sport’s accessibility, affordability, and inclusive nature have made it a popular choice for residents and visitors alike, offering a unique way to experience the city’s beautiful parks and natural spaces.

As the disc golf community in New Orleans continues to grow, the sport’s impact on the city’s overall recreational offerings is likely to expand, further solidifying its place as a beloved and integral part of the city’s diverse sports and leisure culture.