SHORT HILLS COUNTRY CLUB POOL

The rolling prairie terrain of the Quad Cities serves up a surprisingly robust test on this municipal gem, where elevation changes and mature oak groves frame strategic decisions on nearly every hole. The back nine climbs through more dramatic topography, rewarding aggressive lines with shorter approaches but punishing wayward drives with unforgiving lies. At under $50 for weekend play, it's the kind of honest, no-frills golf that reminds you why the Midwest produces so many fundamentally sound players.