A Guide to Missing Links Golf Course in Mequon

Missing Links Golf Course in Mequon represents a comprehensive golf facility that successfully bridges the gap between serious practice, casual play, and family entertainment

Address: 12950 N Port Washington Rd.
Mequon, WI

Missing Links Golf Course in Mequon stands as one of Southeastern Wisconsin's premier golf facilities, offering a unique combination of practice facilities, a Jack Nicklaus-designed par 3 course, and family-friendly mini-golf. Located just 20 minutes north of Milwaukee, this year-round facility has evolved into a complete golf destination that caters to players of all skill levels. This guide provides an in-depth look at everything Missing Links has to offer, from its fascinating history to its state-of-the-art amenities.

Hours and Seasons

Missing Links operates year-round, including holidays, with extensive hours to accommodate various schedules:

• Monday: 9 am – 9:00 pm

• Tuesday through Thursday: 9 am – 11:00 pm

• Friday: 9 am – 10:30 pm

• Saturday: 8 am – 10:30 pm

• Sunday: 8 am – 8:00 pm1

It's important to note that these times represent when the last bucket of balls will be sold, and hours may change seasonally. For mini-golf, the last round is sold one hour prior to closing time.

Missing Links was established around 1980 by Milwaukee developer Chuck Pasternak, who envisioned creating the finest practice facility in the metropolitan area. From its inception, the facility lived up to its cleverly punning name, offering golfers the opportunity to work on the "missing links" in their game. The original development focused on an expansive driving range with composite artificial mats, which was revolutionary at the time for the Milwaukee area.

In 1985-1986, the facility expanded with the addition of a 9-hole par 3 course designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus and architect Gene Bates. This course was originally conceptualized as a "Cayman Course," a concept pioneered by Bill Diddel and later developed by Troy Puckett, who worked with Jack Nicklaus at MacGregor golf company3. Over the decades, Missing Links has continued to evolve, adding new technologies and amenities while maintaining its reputation as a premier golf practice and playing facility.

The Par 3 Course Design and Layout

The 9-hole executive course at Missing Links is one of the last standing original Jack Nicklaus Par 3 Golf Courses, making it a significant piece of golf architecture1. The course features 9 holes with a total par of 27 and stretches to 1270 yards from the back tees2. What makes this par 3 course stand out from others is its thoughtful design that incorporates significant elevation changes, strategic water hazards, and rolling terrain that creates a challenging yet enjoyable experience5.

The course boasts bent grass greens and well-groomed fairways that provide excellent playing conditions2. While the shortest hole measures just 76 yards, the longest extends to 213 yards, offering variety and requiring different club selections throughout the round5. Many holes feature distinctive sand traps that are boarded similarly to those found on the Irish Course at Whistling Straits, adding both character and challenge to the playing experience.

The terrain rolls over numerous small hills, and most holes incorporate water features or elevation changes that add difficulty without being overly punitive for beginners. This balance makes the course approachable for novices while still providing enough challenge to keep experienced golfers engaged.

Driving Range

The driving range at Missing Links is truly a standout facility that operates year-round, even during Wisconsin's harsh winters1. It features covered, heated hitting stalls equipped with automatic timers, allowing golfers to practice regardless of weather conditions1. The range also includes stadium lighting for night practice sessions, making it accessible to those with busy daytime schedules1.

TopTracer Technology

One of the most impressive technological additions to Missing Links is the TopTracer ball flight tracking system, installed in seven hitting bays1. This technology, which is the same used during professional golf broadcasts, allows golfers to:

• Track their actual ball flight in real-time

• Play virtual rounds on 25 different famous courses

• Participate in games like longest drive contests and closest to the pin challenges

• Engage in approach challenges to improve their accuracy

• Join winter leagues for competitive practice

This integration of technology transforms a standard range session into an engaging, data-driven practice experience or an entertaining virtual round with friends.

Putting and Chipping Areas

To complement the driving range, Missing Links offers dedicated putting greens and chipping areas where players can work on their short game. These practice spaces are essential for developing the finesse aspects of golf that often determine scoring success on actual courses.

Mini-Golf Experience

For those seeking a more casual golf experience, Missing Links features the "Great Lakes Adventure Mini-Golf" course. This creative mini-golf layout incorporates regional themes and challenging obstacles including:

• Two rivers

• Three ponds

• Two waterfalls

• Lighthouse features1

The facility has announced that new features will be coming in spring 2025, suggesting continued investment in enhancing the mini-golf experience. This makes it an ideal destination for families, date nights, or casual outings with friends who may not be serious golfers.

Programs and Activities

Instruction and Leagues

Missing Links employs PGA professionals who offer golf instruction for players of all skill levels12. The comprehensive teaching program makes it an excellent place for beginners to learn the game or for experienced players to refine their techniques.

During winter months, the facility runs leagues that utilize the TopTracer technology, allowing participants to compete virtually while still hitting real golf balls on the range. This creates a social competitive environment during months when outdoor golf would otherwise be impossible in Wisconsin.

Virtual Golf and Games

The TopTracer system transforms traditional range sessions into interactive experiences with various game options:

• Virtual rounds on famous courses

• Long-drive competitions

• Closest-to-the-pin challenges

• Approach accuracy games

These options make practice more engaging and provide objective feedback on performance, helping golfers improve more effectively while having fun.

Policies and Amenities

The facility has several policies and amenities worth noting:

• Metal spikes are not allowed on the course

• Credit cards are accepted for payment

• Golf clubs are available for rent if you don't have your own

• The par 3 course does not offer cart rentals, as it's designed as a walking course

Tips for First-Time Visitors

For those visiting Missing Links for the first time, here are some recommendations based on reviewer experiences:

1. Try the par 3 course: Reviewers have specifically mentioned that this is "one of the only par 3's I'll say yes to going to," suggesting it stands above typical executive courses.

2. Don't be deceived by appearances: Several reviews mention that "this golf course is deceiving," likely referring to the surprising challenge presented by what might initially appear to be a simple layout.

3. Balance practice and play: Make the most of your visit by combining range time with either a round on the par 3 course or a game of mini-golf.

4. Visit during off-hours: To maximize your experience, especially with the TopTracer bays, consider visiting during weekday mornings or early afternoons when the facility is likely to be less crowded.

Missing Links Golf Course in Mequon represents a comprehensive golf facility that successfully bridges the gap between serious practice, casual play, and family entertainment. With its historical significance as a Jack Nicklaus design, year-round accessibility, technological innovations, and variety of offerings, it continues to serve as a vital resource for the Milwaukee-area golf community.

Whether you're a dedicated golfer looking to improve your skills during Wisconsin's winter months, a casual player seeking a fun par 3 experience, or a family looking for mini-golf entertainment, Missing Links offers something for everyone. The facility's continued investments in upgrades and new features demonstrate a commitment to remaining relevant and engaging for years to come.

For more golf options in the area, see our ultimate guide to golf in Milwaukee’s north shore.