The Links at Hunters Ridge

You have to love a course with free popcorn ... and a four-and-a-half star rating from Golf Digest doesn’t hurt either. You'll find both traits at today’s feature: $19 for 18 Holes with Cart at Hunter's Ridge Golf Course in Howell ($40 Value. Expires November 14, 2015.)

Hunter's Ridge Golf Course is situated on 160 acres of reclaimed Howell farmland, including 30 acres of natural wetlands. This Livingston County hidden gem is quite possibly one of the best rounds of quality, under-the-radar golf you'll ever play. From the first moment you walk through the rustic, hunting-cabin feel of the log clubhouse, you'll know you're somewhere special.

In keeping with its name, Hunter's Ridge Golf Course puts a premium on accuracy. Boasting 68 bunkers, six ponds and five of the toughest par-3’s you’ll see anywhere, this is not a place to start experimenting with your latent creativity. Playing 6,532 yards to a 72/134 rating, this par-71 bentgrass treat has been an office water-cooler secret since its opening in 1995.

Exceptionally manicured and defined by Scottish-style heather throughout, the fairways at Hunter's Ridge are in fantastic shape. Known to be a very "fair" round of golf, there are no hidden tricks or treats for your ball to find. Straight-forward and offering four sets of tees, Hunter's Ridge is a fun test of golf set amidst a pristine natural environment. The multi-tiered greens roll faster than most, and are believed by many to be reason enough to make Hunter's Ridge an addition to your annual golf circuit.

Michigan’s golf uncle, Jerry Matthews, is renowned for his use of local landscape in his creations and Hunter's Ridge is no exception. Offering a fair share of birdie opportunities throughout its rolling topography, Hunter's Ridge Golf Course comes home strong with one of the toughest collections of finishing holes around. If played right, the last three holes can quickly separate you on the scorecard and your playing partners from their money — if you don't get distracted by a wiff of that popcorn, that is.