Patriot GC is a beautiful course that makes excellent use of the natural landscape. It's challenging but not intimidating. High handicappers like me are advised to leave the driver in the car. It's not a long course, and the rough can be pretty rough.

There's no backyards to avoid on the fairways. It's a beautiful walk or ride through nature's backyard, with an occasional curious look from a local deer or squirrel.

The locals tell me the greens here are the best in the area, and from what I've seen I believe 'em. Beautifully cut, speedy, and curvaceous in places.

It's a pretty, straightforward track. There's enough variety to keep things interesting in these nine holes. Accuracy is more important than distance here. Hole 2 is very similar to 18 at Augusta (from what I've seen on TV) It's a tight driving hole that opens up 150 yards out, with a well-bunkered, undulated green.  I also had some difficulty hitting the narrow green on Hole 5 and ended up in the creek on Hole 9. This place definitely tests your course management and green-reading skills.

My favorite here is Hole 3, a short Par 3 over a pond. It perfectly sums up my thoughts on this course. It's very pretty spot in the natural world, and the golfing is challenging, but not intimidating.

This was one of the best times I've had on a golf course. It all just adds up. Play smart, enjoy the challenge and the scenery.

After your round, you ought to spend some time finalizing the memories on the deck attached to the pro shop. You can choose from around 20 brands of beer to fuel your storytelling. Watch other golfers teeing off or watch a game on the TV. It's a great place to hang out.

A Community That Welcomes Everybody, Especially Veterans
Everybody is friendly here. The folks in the pro shop welcome you with a smile. The shop has a plethora of merch, anything you'd want from any supplier. You need it, they got it.

I got the chance to talk with the golf course manager Jay Carey. He pointed out the importance of Veterans in their community. "We share a parking lot with the VA hospital and really appreciate and value our Veterans," he said. "We host free two-hour Veterans clinics every Friday and have 10-25 disabled Veterans participate weekly. PGA HOPE is a valued partner. If you're a Veteran and want to learn, we'll make it happen." 

The Rest of the Experience
The driving range here is beautiful. You can hit off mats or grass. The practice greens match what you find on the course, so you can dial in your putting game. The food available is mostly grab and go

Planning Your Visit
Boston is 22 minutes away. You've got North End, Faneuil Hall, Boston Garden, Tea Party Museum, Museum of Science, Fenway Park ("Big Green Monster"), so much to do. "Everything right there" downtown.

Facility Facts

• Holes 9

• Type Military

• Par 35

• Length 2883 yards

• Slope 125

• Rating 33.9

• Year Built 1957

• Golf Season Open: 4/15 Closed: 11/15

• Architect Manuel Francis