Charlie Yates Golf Course in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you search for “Charlie Yates Atlanta,” you’re almost always looking for the Charlie Yates Golf Course near East Lake. It’s a shorter, public course that gives you a taste of Atlanta golf history without the private-club barriers.

This guide walks you through what Charlie Yates is, where it is, who it’s best for, and how to make the most of a visit if you live in Atlanta or are just in town for a few days.

What Is Charlie Yates Golf Course?

Charlie Yates Golf Course is a public 9‑hole course located in the East Lake area of Atlanta. It’s known for:

• Being beginner‑friendly but still challenging enough for experienced golfers
• Its connection to the historic East Lake Golf Club area
• Convenient access from Downtown, Midtown, and Decatur

The course is named after Charlie Yates, an Atlanta-born golfer who grew up playing in the East Lake area and went on to have a distinguished amateur golf career. The facility today focuses on accessible golf, practice, and community programs.

Where Charlie Yates Is Located in Atlanta

Address (check locally for any updates):
Charlie Yates Golf Course
10 Lakeside Village Dr SE
Atlanta, GA 30317

This places it:

• Just south of East Lake Golf Club
• A short drive from Downtown Atlanta (often 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic)
• Convenient to neighborhoods like East Lake, Kirkwood, Oakhurst, and Decatur

Getting There

By car:

• From Downtown/Midtown Atlanta:
  Usually via I‑20 E to the Glenwood Ave or Columbia Dr area, then local streets into East Lake.
• From Decatur:
  Commonly via East Lake Drive or nearby surface streets heading south toward the East Lake community.

Parking is generally on‑site and oriented around golfers and visitors to the facility.

By transit + rideshare:

• MARTA rail:
  The East Lake or Decatur stations are the closest rail options. From there, most visitors use a short rideshare or taxi to reach the course.
• Bus:
  Bus routes in the East Lake / Memorial Dr / Glenwood area can get you closer, but many visitors still rely on a final short rideshare or walk.

Course Layout and Playing Experience

Course Type and Length

Charlie Yates is a 9‑hole course, typically set up as:

• Shorter total yardage than a full 18‑hole regulation course
• A mix of par‑3 and par‑4 holes
• Walkable for most players, with the option to use a cart

It’s often described as a “executive-style” or short course, making it ideal if you:

• Don’t have four to five hours for a full 18 holes
• Are just learning the game and want something less intimidating
• Want to practice your short game and approach shots

Who the Course Is Best For

Charlie Yates tends to work well for:

• New golfers learning the basics
• Juniors and youth (particularly those involved in local programs)
• Casual players who want a quicker round
• Travelers staying near Downtown or Decatur who want to play without committing a whole day
• Experienced players looking to sharpen wedges, irons, and putting

If you’re seeking a long, championship‑length challenge, you’ll likely see Charlie Yates as more of a practice and fun‑round destination.

Typical Amenities and On‑Site Features

While offerings can change over time, visitors generally find:

• 9‑hole golf course with tees suitable for different skill levels
• Practice areas (such as putting greens; some golfers also use the course itself as a “practice loop”)
• Pro shop or check‑in area for green fees and basic needs
• Golf cart rentals (availability can vary by time and weather)
• Basic food and beverage options or snacks, sometimes via a small grill, counter, or vending setup
• Restrooms and seating areas

Because amenities can shift, especially over years, it’s wise to call ahead to confirm exactly what’s available the day you plan to visit.

Tee Times, Green Fees, and How to Book

Tee Times

Most Atlanta golfers treat Charlie Yates like any other public course:

• Booking ahead is recommended on weekends, holidays, and good-weather afternoons.
• Walk‑ups may be possible on slower weekdays, but availability varies.

You can usually:

• Call the course directly to reserve a tee time
• Use any online reservation platform the course participates in (if applicable at the time you visit)

Green Fees

Green fees at Charlie Yates are commonly lower than many full 18‑hole courses in the Atlanta area, which is a major draw for:

• New players
• Families
• Locals who want an affordable practice option

Rates can:

• Change by day of the week
• Vary by time of day (morning vs. twilight)
• Be different for juniors, seniors, or residents

For the most accurate numbers, check with the course directly before you go.

What to Expect if You’re New to Golf in Atlanta

Charlie Yates is a frequent recommendation for beginners in Atlanta because it’s:

• Less intimidating than many private clubs
• Short enough that mistakes don’t feel overwhelming
• Often used for instruction and junior programs

If you’re brand new to golf:

• ⛳ Clubs: Rental clubs may be available, but availability isn’t guaranteed—ask when you book.
• 👕 Dress code: Usually golf‑casual: collared shirts or neat athletic tops and appropriate shorts/pants. Avoid swimwear, cutoffs, or anything too informal.
• ⏱️ Time commitment: Many players can finish 9 holes in about 1.5–2 hours, depending on pace and crowds.

For kids or teens, the shorter layout and youth‑oriented programming in the East Lake area make Charlie Yates an approachable starting point.

Charlie Yates and the East Lake Community

The area around the course has a deep Atlanta golf history:

• East Lake is famously associated with top‑level golf and major events at the nearby East Lake Golf Club.
• The neighborhood has seen significant revitalization and community investment, with golf used as one part of broader community and youth development.

Charlie Yates often plays a role in:

• Local youth golf programs
• Community‑oriented activities that introduce more Atlantans to the game

If you’re interested in golf as a community experience—not just a private-club sport—Charlie Yates is one of the more visible examples on the east side of the city.

When to Play: Weather and Timing in Atlanta

Because Atlanta has a relatively mild climate, golf at Charlie Yates is possible most of the year, with these common patterns:

• Spring (March–May): Popular time—milder temperatures and greener conditions.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid; many locals prefer morning or late‑afternoon tee times.
• Fall (September–November): Often one of the best times to play in Atlanta—comfortable temps and less summer storm activity.
• Winter (December–February): Playable on many days, though mornings can be cold and occasional rain or cold snaps can limit play.

For out‑of‑towners, building in flexibility is smart. If a summer afternoon thunderstorm appears, you may need to adjust or delay your round.

Quick Comparison: Is Charlie Yates the Right Atlanta Course for You?

Below is a simple snapshot comparing Charlie Yates with a typical full‑length public course in Atlanta:

If you want a short, accessible, and affordable round in the city, Charlie Yates is typically a good fit. If you’re seeking a longer, more traditional golf marathon, you might pair Charlie Yates with another 18‑hole day elsewhere in Metro Atlanta.

Practical Tips Before You Go

To get the best experience at Charlie Yates in Atlanta:

• Call ahead to confirm:
  • Current hours of operation
  • Green fees and any resident/junior rates
  • Cart and club rental availability
  • Any maintenance or special event closures
• Arrive early (15–20 minutes) to check in and warm up.
• Bring water, sunscreen, and weather‑appropriate clothing—Atlanta sun and humidity can be intense, especially in summer.
• If you’re learning, consider using Charlie Yates for short-game practice and then exploring a full 18‑hole course once you’re more comfortable.

Whether you’re an Atlanta resident looking for a convenient place to play or a visitor fitting golf into a busy schedule, Charlie Yates Golf Course offers a local, approachable way to experience golf on the east side of the city.