A Disappointing Experience I visited The Orchards Golf Course yesterday with my husband and unfortunately had a very disappointing experience that left a lasting negative impression. We arrived 10 minutes before our scheduled tee time, and upon arrival, I had to step away to use the restroom due to personal (feminine) reasons. While I was in the restroom, my husband went to retrieve our golf bags and cart to be efficient. When I came out, I paid for the drinks we had ordered at the clubhouse. At that moment, an older gentleman working behind the counter approached me in an unnecessarily rude and condescending tone. He asked, “Are you that Walsh girly?” — a disrespectful and inappropriate way to refer to a grown woman. When I confirmed who I was, he replied, “Well you need to get up to the first tee box, we are very busy today,” again in a harsh tone that showed no patience or courtesy. I understand the importance of keeping pace and honoring scheduled tee times — that’s a basic part of playing golf. However, there’s absolutely no reason for a staff member to speak to any guest, let alone a paying customer, in such a dismissive and disrespectful manner. As if that interaction wasn’t enough, when we got to the first tee, another staff member made additional comments implying that we were holding up play, again in a tone that lacked any form of kindness or professionalism. The issue here isn’t about being reminded to stay on time — it’s about how people are spoken to. If golf courses want to continue growing the sport and welcoming new players, including women, they need to foster an environment that is inclusive, welcoming, and respectful. Referring to a woman as a “girly” and speaking in a patronizing manner is not only outdated but completely inappropriate. Unfortunately, because of the way I was treated — not as a customer, not as an equal, but as a nuisance — I will not be returning to The Orchards. I sincerely hope they consider training their staff on how to communicate respectfully with all patrons, regardless of gender. Golf should be a place for everyone to enjoy, not one where you feel talked down to for simply being a woman. Edit: After reading other reviews, it’s clear this issue isn’t isolated — people of all genders and age ranges have commented on being treated rudely by certain staff members. That said, the young woman working behind the bar the day I visited was very kind and professional, and her demeanor was appreciated. It’s a shame, because the course itself is beautiful — the scenery included many blooming cherry trees that I would have loved to stop and take a picture of. However, due to feeling rushed and pressured, I didn’t feel I could pause to enjoy the surroundings. The only photo I managed to take was a quick shot of the clubhouse near the 8th hole while my husband teed off and I was sitting in the cart.

Great public coarse! Greens, fairways and bunkers were in good condition. Staff was courteous and friendly. The price was appropriate for our round. I’d recommend playing here. Look forward to play here again.

Have always loved what this course has to offer. But it seems maybe prices went up and staff slightly more rude (we seem to always have non-pleasing staff to deal with, but the golf makes up). This time we were made to feel more like a nuisance for being there. Hope this changes.

Friday, September 5th, 2025 my Sister and Brother-in-Law braved the cold and wind to play The Orchards. They shared their experience with me on how rude the staff was, which has been a consistent issue for a number of years as reported and is the reason I do not play there unless asked by others, as it has been a reoccurring theme of reporting. I live in Door County so it is hard to recommend you based on your golf staff despite the course quality. I hear it from family, friends and acquaintances who all have had the same experience. Whatever it is, the time has come for a re-training and reboot on how to treat your paying customers. Your course can only carry you so far...it is the only reason you get 3 stars, and that was a push. People, get over yourselves! Offer some sterling customer service! You may think you have the premier golf course in the county, but if you continue to treat people this way, they have plenty of options- Idlewild, Cherry Hills, Maxwelton Braes, Peninsula State Park, even Alpine (what is left of it) and as far south as Royal Scot in Brown County are all cheaper and nicer to their guests. It is often a challenge to deal with thousands of people- rude, arrogant, self-involved, entitled- but most of these descriptions do not apply to golfers. I have done so many different service related jobs- executive positions calling on tough buyers and companies, as an owner and as a manager of clothing, and in various markets here. Never easy but you are expected to perform at a high level. Fake it until you make it, use your acting skills- do whatever you can to make it a world class experience for people. Please try harder! Ownership, hold them to a higher standard!

Well maintained course in Door County. Account for the wind because it sounds like it’s the norm on this course that cuts in and out of the landscape of trees, hills, water hazards and apple orchards. A must for the golf fanatic while visiting the area!