Applecross CC (Private, with limited public access**)
Downingtown, PA (an hour W of Philly)
2010, Michael Nicklaus and David Heatwole of Jack Nicklaus Design
Links Magazine Top 10 Best New Courses of 2011: "The Philadelphia area is loaded with great courses, but none by a Nicklaus until now. Jack’s youngest son didn’t design a bear of a course, however. Even though there are water or wetlands on 14 holes, the layout is very player-friendly, averaging just three bunkers per hole."
**Fat Guy Note: This private new residential course picked a tough time to sell both McMansions and pricey private club memberships. As a result, they were accepting limited public play during the 2011 golf season. Word on the street was that public fees were under $100. Check back when things warm up in 2012 to see if they're continuing the policy.
Where To Booze & Grub: See Downingtown CC.