Tony’s done it again.  He’s lavishing together great golf, food, drink, and history in one episode.  And you can see it on the February 2025 edition of the Traveling Golfer.

Tony hosts this episode from Alabama at the southern end of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail that extends its allure to the new golf foodie hotspot of Mobile, Alabama.  It is now a beacon for both golf enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque retreat.

Sure, Mobile has plenty of history.  In fact, Mobile has a longer history of Mardi Gras than even New Orleans. You may want to make that Mardi Gras trek here in early March.  Tony takes you to downtown Mobile with more than 50 restaurants and bars within an 8-block area.

As you will see this is a great trip for a bunch of guy or gal golfers wanting a getaway loaded with experiences.  But, as Tony points, this is a great couples hideaway weekend.

Tony hits some of the iconic nearby Trail courses.

Iconic Courses With Views

A cornerstone of this trail is the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, offering 36 majestic holes. Though a private course, hotel guests are granted the privilege of teeing off amidst the stunning backdrop of the Gulf Coast. Tony shows off the manicured fairways framed by tangled oak trees, a sight that alone justifies a visit.

Tony also gets served up an incredible tuna dish, cooked to perfection by Zach Compton, the Director of Culinary Operations at Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa.  Tony’s response is mesmerizing – as is the accommodations.  One of the big reasons this could be a couples getaway must.

Tony also tees it up at Magnolia Grove.  This is 54 challenging holes that will test the mettle of every golfer.  Tony shows us how you need a long game on a number of holes, but you better have some accurate tee shots and approach shots.

Both these courses, as you will see, make Mobile an essential stop for those plunging into the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

Beyond the greens, Mobile boasts vibrant dining and entertainment options.

Mobile’s Booming Culinary Scene

Tony starts your culinary journey at Dauphin’s, perched atop the 34th floor of the Trustmark Building. It offers not just incredible food but sweeping views of the city and waters beyond.

A few blocks away, Tony has a burger and a Yuengling at one of the world’s best Irish pubs – the globally acclaimed Callaghan’s Irish Social Club. It embodies the spirit of Mobile’s renowned St. Patrick’s Day festivities—the best in the South.  You may want to hit some golf in Mid-March here too.

Tony drinks in some speakeasy history at Las Floridita.  Modeled after Cuban speakeasies once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, this local haunt captures a nostalgic charm that draws both residents and visitors.

Tony escorts up to the top of The Admiral Hotel, a new and bustling fixture nearby, with its must-visit rooftop Lemoyne Chophouse. Here, a bourbon bar offering exquisite oysters becomes an experience to cherish, blending sophisticated flavors with panoramic sights.  Tony enjoys a healthy bourbon with General Manager Terell Ham.  We think Tony made it out of there OK.

Within this compact eight-block area, Mobile hosts an impressive 55 restaurants, showcasing diverse culinary artistry that will satiate any palate. It’s a gastronomic journey through Southern hospitality, international flair, and impeccable service—all just minutes from world-class golf courses.

And Mobile’s golf future is not going away.  Like many other spots around the country, golf is growing in popularity – thanks to Covid and also the boom of indoor golf and technology locations.

In addition, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail has made Mobile and other parts of Alabama – a golf resort destination.

Tony gets the lo-down from David Clark, CEO of Visit Mobile, and a lifetime PGA member, who gives us the background of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and how it has boosted tourism but also funnels substantial retirement income back into the local economy, transforming Alabama into a golfing haven.

Robert Trent Jones Trail History Not Going Away

It’s a fascinating economic history.

The idea was initiated by Dr. David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA), who saw an opportunity to expand Alabama’s non-industrial economic base. He proposed creating a series of world-class golf courses that would attract tourists from all over, highlighting Alabama as a premier golf destination.

Jones Sr., who had designed hundreds of courses worldwide, was the perfect candidate to bring this ambitious project to life. His expertise ensured that the courses would provide various challenges for all skill levels while making the most of Alabama’s diverse landscapes.

Construction began in 1992 and has been described as one of the largest golf course construction projects ever attempted. Initially, eight sites were selected, spread across the state. Today, the trail comprises 11 different sites with 26 courses and 468 holes, extending from one end of Alabama to the other.

The creation of the golf trail has had a significant positive impact on Alabama’s economy. It has attracted millions of visitors, generated substantial revenue, and created thousands of jobs. Additionally, it has boosted other sectors, including hospitality, dining, and retail.

The trail has elevated Alabama’s status as a prime golf destination, bringing visitors from various parts of the country and internationally.

The development and maintenance of the courses have created employment opportunities for Alabama residents across different sectors.

By drawing tourists, the trail supports local businesses, from hotels to restaurants, and promotes ancillary tourism activities.

It has helped diversify Alabama’s economy by reducing reliance on traditional manufacturing and resource-driven sectors.

For golfers contemplating their next destination, Mobile stands out with compelling reasons. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, magnified by Mobile’s intrinsic charm and vibrant lifestyle, promises an unparalleled adventure. Whether swinging at Magnolia Grove or indulging in local flavors at one of the city’s numerous eateries, the blend of sport and leisure here beckons golfers worldwide. In Mobile, you’ll discover a sanctuary where excellence in golf and a thriving cultural scene unite, offering every visitor an unforgettable Southern escape.

And you can see it all right here on The Traveling Golfer.

 

Real John Daly, not Long John Daly, is a versatile TV host, author, and video producer known for his innovative work in the media industry.  He is a fill-in host for Traveling Golfer.  John hosts and produces “Carolina Buzz,” a captivating video series that delves into the happenings of North and South Carolina, especially along the coasts. He is also the host and producer of “TGD News Wire,” a go-to website for all things golf and golf industry news.  As the cohost and co-creator of “Undercover Jetsetter,” a groundbreaking TV show produced entirely on the iPhone, John explores the realms of food, travel, and booze with a unique perspective. His proficiency in utilizing new video technology, particularly the iPhone, sets him apart in the industry. All shows can be seen on Wingding.tv