A. L. Gustin Golf Course

A. L. Gustin Golf Course is a municipal facility in Columbia, Missouri, designed by Floyd Farley and serving the mid-Missouri golfing community. The course operates as a public-access layout managed by the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department, providing an affordable option for local golfers and visitors to the university town. Farley, a regional architect active in the mid-twentieth century, designed several courses across Missouri and neighboring states during an era when many communities were expanding their public golf offerings. The course occupies rolling terrain characteristic of central Missouri, with tree-lined fairways and modest elevation changes that define the routing. The property features mature hardwoods that frame holes and come into play on tee shots and approaches, requiring accuracy from players navigating the layout. Water hazards and bunkers provide strategic interest on several holes, though the design emphasizes playability for golfers of varying skill levels rather than severe challenge. As a municipal course, A. L. Gustin serves a broad cross-section of Columbia residents, university students and staff from the nearby University of Missouri campus, and traveling golfers passing through the region. The facility maintains a straightforward, accessible character typical of mid-century public courses, focusing on providing quality conditions and pace of play rather than elaborate amenities. The course remains a fixture in Columbia's recreational landscape, offering a traditional parkland experience in the heart of Missouri.