New 18 Hole Putting Experience: The Forge at Palmer Hills

The Forge at Palmer Hills is a unique golfing experience unlike any other offered in the Quad Cities. Designed by golf course architect Paul Miller, the putting course is placed by the driving range and Palmer Hills clubhouse. Grab your putting clubs and head to Palmer Hills for a fun round of…putting.

What is a putting course?

It's essentially an 18 hole course with real grass putting greens. The Forge course is spread over 56,500 square feet. The greens are close enough together that it's easy to play 18 holes in 45 minutes to one hour.

The Forge has four large greens with multiple holes on each green for various approaches and putting challenges. It's like mini-golf on a real golf course but with none of the crazy obstacles. It's both a high-end golf experience and a fun learning environment. 

While accessible to all skill levels, the holes are actually challenging. The course is easy to follow and is complete with custom beverage holders at each hole.

“I didn't know what to expect from a putting course. It was really well maintained and played like a real golf course even though there were multiple holes on each green.” - Luke 

How do we get started?

Reservations are recommended. Call to reserve your tee time at The Forge Putting Course: 563-344-7178
Park in the main parking lot at Palmer Hills for access to The Forge

What does it cost?

$8 for adults; $5 for kids
Follow Palmer Hills on Facebook for specials.

What skill level is needed to play The Forge?

All skill levels are welcome and encouraged from beginner to expert! 

“As a newer golfer I appreciated how Jeff took the time to explain the course in a way that was not intimidating. The Forge would be a perfect place to take your family, or an experienced golfer. It is very versatile.” - Nicole

What's the ambiance like?

One interesting thing about The Forge is that it isn't completely quiet like usual. There is music playing which is not something you traditionally hear on a golf course. It made the experience unique. 

The course is also placed in an area of Palmer Hills where you can watch others play the traditional course as well as watch folks on the driving range. You'll start at the small pavillion built to accommodate The Forge customers, complete with a full service patio and refreshments. The staff are friendly and extremely helpful.

Is it fun?

“I had an awesome time and cannot wait to go back! While putting is my least favorite part of golfing, The Forge was different.. I think I actually improved my putting skills.” - Nicole

“It was fun focusing on putting. It was laidback. We could get a drink and have a good time.” - Luke

The Forge can be rented out for birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. Call 563-344-7178 for more details and pricing.

*Special Thanks to Nicole Durbin and Luke Cooley for playing The Forge and offering first hand experience and insight.

Written by Meghan Cooley

Meghan Cooley moved to the Quad Cities from St. Charles, IL, as an Augustana College student over 20 years ago. She left briefly after graduation and then returned to work in admissions and then marketing at Augustana College for 18 years. She now works as a consultant for admissions marketing and social media. She also does copy editing and writes for the Quad City Moms Blog. Now a true Quad Cities transplant, Meghan lives in Rock Island with her husband, Luke (R.O.W.V.A. and Augustana grad and Modern Woodmen employee) and four boys. She loves living in the Quad Cities and finds it the perfect place to raise a family, plan a date night, and go on adventures.