A former city-owned golf course in Sartell has found new life as one of central Minnesota's most talked about new venues. Three Tees Golf & Social officially opened at 801 Pine Cone Road, the site of the old Pine Ridge Golf Course, bringing together a nine-hole golf experience with a full-service restaurant, bar, and flexible event spaces.
From City Course to Community Destination
Brandon Testa, owner of Three Tees and a 25-year Sartell resident, purchased the property from the city in 2023. The sale wasn't simple. Months of public debate followed the proposal, with residents voicing concerns about losing green space. The Sartell City Council ultimately approved the deal with a critical condition: the golf course must remain operational for at least 30 years.
Testa, who also owns House of Pizza with locations in Sartell and St. Cloud, saw the opportunity to create something the area was missing. Since acquiring the property, he's added new ponds, a practice green, and an 8,000 square foot building designed by Lino Lakes-based Thielen & Green and built by St. Joseph-based Strack Construction.
More Than Golf
The building houses a golf shop, restaurant, bar, two gathering spaces, and an outdoor patio. Early reviews from visitors across the St. Cloud metro, including St. Joseph, Waite Park, and Sauk Rapids, have been positive on both the food and the overall atmosphere.
Three Tees is also making youth golf a priority. The venue hosts JV and middle school tournaments and runs a weekly program where up to 150 kids, ages 8 to 13, show up on Mondays to learn the game. Testa has said the goal is to keep golf fun and accessible, especially for younger players who might find traditional courses intimidating.
A Long-Term Community Investment
The 30-year operational requirement from the city council ensures this green space stays active for decades. Three Tees is already booking graduation parties for next year based on positive experiences from this season, and the venue is positioning itself as a gathering place for families, events, and everyday dining.
This type of investment, where a local entrepreneur preserves community assets while adding amenities the area was lacking, is exactly the kind of development that strengthens smaller Minnesota cities. Sartell's growth has made it a city to watch in central Minnesota, and Three Tees is a strong addition.
Hot Tips around the Twin Cities? Need Help Buying or Selling 🏡?
🙋🏻♂️DM me or Text📲 Darin Bjerknes 612-702-5126
