Build it and they might not come

The World Golf Hall of Fame’s St. Augustine, Florida, site is set to close on Sept. 2 after 25 years and will reopen in a markedly downsized Pinehurst location in spring 2024

By Ward Clayton / FIRSTCALLGOLF.COM

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL — On a recent late August weekday, traffic departed the Interstate 95 raceway and sat on the exit ramp and bridge of this bustling northeast Florida community. Signs indicated they were on International Golf Parkway, adjacent to the World Golf Village, World Golf Hall of Fame, Slammer & Squire and King & Bear golf courses and Murray Bros. Caddyshack Restaurant at an exit 20 miles south of Jacksonville.

Yet, this vision, established 25 years ago by the PGA Tour, of a golf haven just south of Jacksonville and two hours from Disney was just a partial mirage by 2023. The passengers in these cars were likely more anxious for the offerings on the southside of International Golf Parkway — a Buc-ee’s mega gas station and convenience store, a Costco’s warehouse and a Bass Pro Shops that is scheduled to open in 2024.

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Fairways Magazine

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