Erin Hills was built by Wisconsin developer Bob Lang, who used his own money to fund the course. Designers included Dr. Michael John Hurdzan and his business partner Dana Fry, and Ron Whitten.
Andrew Ziegler purchased the course in 2009; as part of his commitment to upgrading the conditioning of the golf course, he said that Erin Hills would be operated on a "walking-only" basis starting in 2010. Unlike most modern courses, Erin Hills was not outfitted with paved cart paths.
Each petal was inspired from the iron art on the bell. The logo was designed by Brenda Williams, a competitive golfer from Minnetrista, Minnesota.
The course includes a manor home specifically built as a hotel that includes a pub, and a refurbished barn available for private events. The grounds have been upgraded to include cottages for overnight stay. About four miles (6.5 km) to the east on higher ground is the landmark Holy Hill shrine, visible from the course.