The Mines Golf Course, Grand Rapids

What do you do with 200 acres of former gypsum mine in the shadows of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, long dormant and unsuitable for housing? You build a golf course, of course. And that's just what Dan and Judith Schimmel did.

Opening in fall 2005 into an ultra-competitive Grand Rapids golf scene, The Mines Golf Course is bound to stick out, for its unique terrain as well as its unique history. Playing just over 6,700 yards from the back tees, the Mines calls for some creativity, and the greens can frustrate no matter how often you've played them (better hit your approach on the right). This is another strong entry in design up-and-comer Mike DeVries' Michigan portfolio.