Birmingham, Alabama, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Following the successful hosting of the North American Golf Tourism Convention, Birmingham is cementing its reputation as a top golf tourism destination. With over 300 golf tour operators in attendance, the event showcased Birmingham’s rich golfing heritage and recent investments in high-quality golf courses and hospitality offerings. The city is strategically located near the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, further enhancing its appeal. As Birmingham garners international recognition, its vibrant cultural scene complements the golfing experience, making it a desirable location for golf enthusiasts.
Birmingham, Alabama is positioning itself as a leading destination for golf tourism following its successful hosting of the 16th North American Golf Tourism Convention in June 2025. Organized by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the convention welcomed over 300 golf tour operators from 33 different countries, showcasing Birmingham’s growing reputation in the global golf tourism arena.
The event highlighted Birmingham’s extensive golfing heritage and the increasing investment the city has made in enhancing its golf tourism infrastructure. These investments include the development of high-quality golf courses and hospitality options aimed at attracting international visitors, further solidifying the city’s new identity focused on golf.
A significant factor in Birmingham’s rise as a golf tourism hotspot is its proximity to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. This renowned trail consists of 11 championship-caliber golf courses spread across the state of Alabama, totaling an impressive 468 holes, making it one of the largest collections of championship golf courses in the world. Iconic courses located within Birmingham, such as Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge, are designed to provide golfers with varied and challenging experiences.
Ross Bridge Golf Resort is particularly notable for being one of the longest golf courses globally, stretching over 8,000 yards. Alongside this, the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa offers upscale accommodations that ensure visitors enjoy a luxurious golfing experience, equipped with a resort pool and spa services.
Among other prominent golf venues, the Country Club of Birmingham features two exceptional courses, with its West Course frequently recognized as one of the best golf courses in the United States, earning a place among the top 100 golf courses as ranked by Golf Digest.
Birmingham’s efforts in promoting itself as a premier golf destination were recognized when it received the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Golf Tourism’ award from IAGTO in 2025. This accolade underscores Birmingham’s transformative impact on the golf tourism landscape in Alabama. The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) has played a pivotal role in promoting these golf offerings, which are integrated into Alabama’s larger tourism campaigns, attracting thousands of golf travelers each year.
In addition to its golf experience, Birmingham boasts a vibrant cultural scene that includes an array of museums, art galleries, and dining options that highlight Southern cuisine. Known as the “Dinner Table of the South,” Birmingham also hosts live music events that add to its charm as a travel destination.
As more international golf tourists are expected to visit Birmingham annually, the city is on the verge of becoming a significant player in the global golf tourism market. The success of the IAGTO convention is seen as a critical milestone, paving the way for future international events in Birmingham, further establishing its reputation among golf enthusiasts.
Golf fans are encouraged to travel to Birmingham to experience its challenging courses paired with genuine Southern hospitality, making it an appealing destination for those passionate about the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the North American Golf Tourism Convention?
The North American Golf Tourism Convention is an annual event organized by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, bringing together golf tour operators and promoting destinations in the golf tourism industry.
What are some key golf courses in Birmingham?
Key golf courses in Birmingham include Oxmoor Valley and Ross Bridge, with the latter being one of the longest courses in the world at over 8,000 yards. The Country Club of Birmingham is also notable for its West Course, ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the U.S.
How has Birmingham invested in golf tourism?
Birmingham has made significant investments in high-quality golf courses, hospitality options, and golf tourism infrastructure aimed at attracting both national and international visitors.
Key Features of Birmingham’s Golf Tourism
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Convention Hosting | Hosted the 16th North American Golf Tourism Convention in June 2025 |
| Attendance | Over 300 golf tour operators from 33 countries participated |
| Investment | Significant investments in golf courses and hospitality |
| Golf Trail | Proximity to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, featuring 468 holes |
| Awards | Received the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Golf Tourism’ award from IAGTO in 2025 |
| Cultural Attractions | Diverse cultural scene, recognized as the “Dinner Table of the South” |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Football Club and GBCVB Join Forces
Chelsea Welcomes Valley Post: A New Dining Destination!
Birmingham Hosts North America Golf Tourism Convention
Birmingham Welcomes New Business Openings in July
Birmingham Hosts IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Awards
Birmingham Gears Up for a Vibrant May with Diverse Events
Birmingham Introduces New Businesses as Spring Arrives
Additional Resources
- Travel and Tour World: Birmingham, Alabama – A Premier Golf Destination
- Wikipedia: Golf in the United States
- Bham Now: 12 Public Golf Courses within 25 Miles of Birmingham
- Google Search: Birmingham Alabama Golf Tourism
- ABC 33/40: Global Golf Tourism Convention Spotlights Birmingham, Alabama’s Charm
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- CBS 42: Birmingham Golf Classic Raises Esophageal Cancer Awareness
- Google News: Golf Tourism Birmingham
- Alabama News Center: First Tee Birmingham Uses Golf to Build Game Changers
- Google Scholar: Birmingham Alabama Golf
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson 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 the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
