Golfing in the City: A Guide to New York City’s Best Courses and Facilities
New York City is a hub of activity, with towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and endless entertainment options. But amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s a surprising hidden gem: golf. Yes, you read that right! Despite its urban landscape, New York City is home to some of the best golf courses and facilities in the country.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, there’s a course in NYC that’s perfect for you. From lush, tree-lined fairways to challenging links-style courses, the city offers a diverse range of golfing experiences. And with stunning views of the city skyline and the East River, playing golf in NYC is an experience you won’t forget.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best golf courses and facilities in New York City, and what makes them worth a visit. So pack your clubs, and let’s get ready to hit the fairways in the heart of the city that never sleeps!
What to Expect from Golfing in New York City
New York City is a vibrant and exciting destination for golf enthusiasts, offering a wide range of courses and facilities to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, there’s something for everyone in the city that never sleeps. Here’s what you can expect from golfing in New York City:
World-Class Courses
New York City is home to some of the most prestigious and challenging golf courses in the world. From the iconic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton to the newly opened The Course at the Natirar in Somerset County, there’s no shortage of top-rated courses to test your skills. These courses are often designed by world-renowned architects and offer unique challenges, from rolling hills and dense forests to windy coastlines and urban landscapes.
Diverse Landscapes
One of the best things about golfing in New York City is the variety of landscapes you’ll encounter. From the lush greenery of Central Park to the rugged coastline of Long Island, there’s a wide range of natural beauty to take in as you play. Some courses offer stunning views of the city skyline, while others provide a more secluded and peaceful setting. Whether you prefer a wooded course or an oceanfront one, New York City has something for everyone.
Competitive Scene
Golf is a highly competitive sport, and New York City offers plenty of opportunities to test your skills against other players. From local tournaments and leagues to major events like the U.S. Open, there’s always something happening on the city’s courses. Whether you’re looking to win big or just have fun, you’ll find a welcoming community of golfers in New York City.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
New York City is known for its cutting-edge technology and innovation, and its golf courses are no exception. Many courses offer state-of-the-art facilities, including top-notch equipment rentals, on-site dining and entertainment, and even virtual reality simulators. These facilities are designed to enhance your experience and help you improve your game, whether you’re looking to take lessons or just enjoy a day on the course.
Urban Golfing
One of the unique aspects of golfing in New York City is the opportunity to play in the heart of the city. While some courses are located in more rural areas, others are situated right in the heart of the urban landscape. This means you can experience the hustle and bustle of city life while still enjoying a round of golf. Whether you prefer the bustling streets of Manhattan or the more tranquil settings of Brooklyn or Queens, there’s a course to suit your style.
In summary, golfing in New York City offers a unique and exciting experience for players of all levels. With world-class courses, diverse landscapes, a competitive scene, state-of-the-art facilities, and urban golfing options, there’s something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.
The Challenges of Urban Golfing
Navigating Limited Space
One of the most significant challenges of urban golfing is navigating limited space. Unlike traditional golf courses that have expansive greens and fairways, urban courses often have to make do with smaller areas that are cramped and tightly packed. This can make it difficult to swing the club without hitting nearby buildings, trees, or other obstacles.
Dealing with Distractions
Another challenge of urban golfing is dealing with distractions. In a city environment, there are always plenty of distractions that can take your focus away from the game. Cars honking, people walking by, and even the sound of the subway can all disrupt your concentration and make it difficult to play your best.
Overcoming the Weather
Finally, urban golfers must also contend with the weather. While some traditional golf courses may be able to stay open during rain or snow, many urban courses are not equipped to handle inclement weather. This can make it difficult to get in a round of golf, especially during the winter months when the weather is often unpredictable.
Despite these challenges, however, urban golfing can be a rewarding experience for those who are up to the task. With a little bit of practice and a willingness to adapt to the unique conditions of city golfing, even the most novice player can enjoy a round of golf in the heart of New York City.
The Benefits of City Golfing
Golfing in the city offers a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels. With numerous courses to choose from, players can enjoy the sport in an urban environment. Here are some of the benefits of city golfing:
- Accessibility to Courses: Unlike traditional golf courses that are often located in rural areas, city golf courses are easily accessible by public transportation. This means that golfers can play a round without having to worry about transportation or parking.
- Variety of Courses to Choose From: New York City has a diverse range of golf courses, each with its own unique features and challenges. From traditional 18-hole courses to executive courses and even indoor golf simulators, golfers can find a course that suits their skill level and preferences.
- Golfing in a Unique Environment: Golfing in the city offers a different experience than playing in a rural setting. Players can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, hear the hustle and bustle of urban life, and experience the challenges of playing in an urban environment. The city’s courses also often have unique design features, such as incorporating buildings and other structures into the course layout.
Choosing the Right Course for You
Selecting the ideal golf course for your game is crucial to ensure an enjoyable and satisfying experience. New York City offers a variety of courses, each with its unique characteristics and challenges. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right course for you:
Skill Level
New York City golf courses cater to players of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. Consider your current skill level and choose a course that will provide an appropriate level of challenge. If you’re a beginner, look for courses with wide fairways and forgiving roughs. For advanced players, seek out courses with narrow fairways, challenging hazards, and well-protected greens.
Course Design
Golf courses in New York City vary in design, offering a range of experiences for players. Some courses feature traditional parkland-style layouts, while others offer links-style play with wide-open fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Consider your preferred course design and choose a course that aligns with your playing preferences.
Distance and Accessibility
New York City is a large metropolitan area, and courses can be located at varying distances from your starting point. Consider the distance of the courses you’re interested in and choose one that is convenient for you to access. Additionally, consider factors such as public transportation accessibility, parking availability, and overall ease of getting to the course.
Amenities and Services
New York City golf courses offer a range of amenities and services to enhance your experience. Consider what services and amenities are important to you, such as on-site dining, club rentals, lessons, or practice facilities. Some courses may also offer memberships or discounts for regular play, so explore these options as well.
Reputation and Reviews
Research the reputation and reviews of the courses you’re considering. Look for information on course conditioning, customer service, and overall player satisfaction. Word-of-mouth recommendations from fellow golfers can also be valuable in helping you choose the right course for you.
By considering these factors, you can select the best golf course in New York City for your specific needs and preferences, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience in the city.
Course Type
When it comes to choosing the right course for your golfing experience in New York City, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important considerations is the type of course you want to play. In this section, we will discuss the three main types of courses available in NYC: public courses, private courses, and resort courses.
Public Courses
Public courses are open to the general public and are usually operated by the city or state. These courses are typically more affordable than private courses and offer a great opportunity for golfers to play on well-maintained courses without breaking the bank. Some of the best public courses in NYC include:
- Mitchell-Lama Course: This course is located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens and is one of the most popular public courses in the city. It features a challenging 18-hole layout that winds through the park’s beautiful surroundings.
- Brooklyn Park Course: This course is located in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park and offers golfers a challenging 9-hole layout. The course is relatively short, but it’s still a great place to practice your swing.
- Van Cortlandt Park Course: This course is located in the Bronx and is one of the oldest public courses in the city. It features an 18-hole layout that winds through the park’s hilly terrain.
Private Courses
Private courses are exclusive to members and their guests. These courses typically offer a more upscale experience, with top-notch amenities and well-maintained courses. Some of the best private courses in NYC include:
- The Country Club at Lake Valhalla: This course is located in Montrose, NY and is one of the most exclusive private courses in the region. It features a challenging 18-hole layout that winds through the picturesque countryside.
- The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers: This course is located on the Hudson River in Manhattan and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It features a challenging 18-hole layout that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
- The Creek Club: This course is located on Long Island’s North Shore and is one of the oldest and most prestigious private clubs in the region. It features a challenging 18-hole layout that winds through the club’s beautiful surroundings.
Resort Courses
Resort courses are typically located in hotels or resorts and are open to the public. These courses offer a great opportunity for golfers to play on well-maintained courses while enjoying all the amenities of a luxury resort. Some of the best resort courses in NYC include:
- The Westbury: This course is located in White Plains, NY and is part of the Hilton family of hotels. It features an 18-hole layout that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
- The Wyndham Garden: This course is located in nearby Danbury, CT and is part of the Wyndham hotel chain. It features an 18-hole layout that winds through the picturesque countryside.
- The Sheraton: This course is located in nearby Pearl River, NY and is part of the Sheraton hotel chain. It features an 18-hole layout that is suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Features
When choosing a golf course in New York City, there are several features to consider to ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
- Difficulty Level: The difficulty level of a course can vary depending on the skill level of the golfer. Some courses are designed for beginners, while others are more challenging for experienced players. Consider your own skill level and choose a course that will provide an enjoyable challenge without being too difficult or frustrating.
- Amenities: Many golf courses in New York City offer a range of amenities to enhance your experience. Some courses may have driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas for practice, while others may offer lessons from professional instructors. Consider what amenities are important to you and choose a course that offers them.
- Proximity to Accommodations: If you are planning to stay overnight or for an extended period, consider the proximity of the golf course to your accommodations. Some courses may be located in more remote areas, while others may be closer to hotels and other attractions. Choose a course that is convenient for your needs and budget.
By considering these factors, you can choose a golf course in New York City that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Top Golf Courses in New York City
Golfing in New York City is an experience unlike any other. With its unique blend of urban landscapes and lush green spaces, the city offers a variety of golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Here are some of the top golf courses in New York City that you should definitely check out:
1. Bethpage State Park – Black Course
Located in Farmingdale, New York, Bethpage State Park – Black Course is one of the most famous golf courses in the world. It is a public course that has hosted several major championships, including the US Open. The course is known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways and thick roughs. The Black Course is a true test of golf skills, and it is a must-play for any serious golfer visiting New York City.
2. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a private golf club located in Southampton, New York. It is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States and has hosted several major championships, including the US Open. The course is known for its historic architecture and challenging holes, with its signature hole being the 16th, which is a par-3 that plays over a huge sand dune. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
3. The Country Club at Lake Harmony
Located in the Pocono Mountains, The Country Club at Lake Harmony is a public golf course that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The course is known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The signature hole is the 12th, which is a par-3 that plays over a lake to a small green surrounded by bunkers. The Country Club at Lake Harmony is a great option for golfers looking for a scenic and challenging round of golf.
4. Harbor Links Golf Course
Harbor Links Golf Course is a public golf course located on Long Island’s south shore. The course offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its challenging layout, with its signature hole being the 16th, which is a par-3 that plays over a large sand dune to a small green surrounded by bunkers. Harbor Links Golf Course is a great option for golfers looking for a challenging round of golf with beautiful views.
5. Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses
Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses are a public golf facility located in the Bronx. The facility consists of two 18-hole courses, Pelham Bay and Split Rock, which offer challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. The courses are known for their beautiful landscapes, with Pelham Bay Course offering views of the Long Island Sound and Split Rock Course offering views of the Bronx River. Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses are a great option for golfers looking for an affordable and enjoyable round of golf in the city.
Public Courses
New York City is home to some of the most challenging and picturesque public golf courses in the country. Here are three of the best public courses that you won’t want to miss:
Bethpage State Park
Bethpage State Park is one of the most famous public golf courses in the United States. Located in Farmingdale, New York, the park features two 18-hole courses, including the Black Course, which has hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Open. The courses at Bethpage State Park are known for their challenging layouts, with narrow fairways and thick roughs, as well as their stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Van Cortlandt Park
Van Cortlandt Park is located in the Bronx and is the oldest public golf course in the United States. The course features nine holes, with a par of 36, and is known for its hilly terrain and challenging greens. The course is relatively short, at just over 5,000 yards, but it’s still a test for golfers of all skill levels. The views from the course are also impressive, with the Manhattan skyline visible in the distance.
Forest Park
Forest Park is located in Queens and features two 18-hole courses, the North and South Courses. The courses are both par 72 and range from 6,000 to 6,500 yards. The park is known for its well-maintained greens and challenging holes, including a stretch of holes on the North Course that are known as the “Bear Trap,” due to their difficulty. The park also features a driving range and a chipping area, making it a great destination for golfers looking to improve their skills.
Private Courses
The Country Club at Castle Pines
- Located in the Bronx, The Country Club at Castle Pines is a private golf course that is open to members and their guests only.
- Designed by Tom Doak, the course features 18 holes of championship golf, with rolling hills, mature trees, and strategically placed bunkers.
- The course also boasts a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, as well as a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar.
The St. Andrews Golf Club
- The St. Andrews Golf Club, located in Staten Island, is a private golf course that has been ranked as one of the best in the city.
- The course, which was designed by Jack Nicklaus, features 18 holes of golf, with challenging holes that wind through the natural landscape.
- In addition to the golf course, the club also offers a driving range, practice green, and locker rooms.
The Maidstone Club
- The Maidstone Club, located on the eastern end of Long Island, is a private golf club that has been a favorite of golfers for over a century.
- The course, which was designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, features 18 holes of golf, with narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards.
- The club also offers a variety of other amenities, including a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, a swimming pool, and tennis courts.
Resort Courses
Resort courses in New York City offer a unique golfing experience, providing players with the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf in a picturesque setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. These courses are often located in or near popular resort areas, such as the Hamptons and the Catskills, and feature top-notch amenities and services to ensure a memorable golfing experience.
Here are some of the best resort courses in New York City:
The Golf Course at the Westbury
The Golf Course at the Westbury is a public 18-hole course located in Old Westbury, New York. Designed by Albert Nelson and opened in 1961, the course has been praised for its challenging layout and well-maintained greens. Measuring 6,711 yards from the longest tees, the course offers a mix of challenging holes, including tight fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The Westbury also features a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, as well as a pro shop and restaurant.
The Hamptons Golf Club
The Hamptons Golf Club is a private 18-hole course located in the heart of the Hamptons in Southampton, New York. Designed by Tom and George Nagle and opened in 2005, the course has quickly become one of the most popular golf courses in the area. The course features a links-style layout, with rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and large greens. The Hamptons Golf Club also offers a variety of amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, as well as a clubhouse with a pro shop and restaurant.
The NYS Golf Club
The NYS Golf Club is a private 18-hole course located in the Catskill Mountains in Upstate New York. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1923, the course has a rich history and has hosted numerous professional tournaments over the years. The course measures 6,732 yards from the longest tees and features narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens. The NYS Golf Club also offers a variety of amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, as well as a clubhouse with a pro shop and restaurant.
Additional Resources for Golfers in New York City
If you’re a serious golfer in New York City, you’ll want to take advantage of all the resources available to you. Here are some additional resources to consider:
Golf Lessons
Improve your game by taking golf lessons from one of the many golf professionals in New York City. There are many options available, including private lessons, group clinics, and even online lessons. Some popular options include:
- PGA Golf Club at Pinehurst: This world-renowned golf club offers private lessons with PGA professionals, as well as group clinics and online lessons.
- The Golf Room: This indoor golf facility offers private lessons with PGA professionals, as well as group clinics and simulator rentals.
- The Country Club at Mirbeau: This luxury golf club offers private lessons with PGA professionals, as well as group clinics and online lessons.
Golf Tournaments
New York City is home to many golf tournaments throughout the year. These tournaments offer a great opportunity to test your skills against other golfers and potentially win some prizes. Some popular tournaments include:
- The New York City Open: This annual tournament is held at the Bethpage State Park Golf Course and features a variety of divisions for golfers of all skill levels.
- The Met Open: This annual tournament is held at the Met Golf Club in Somerset, New Jersey and features a variety of divisions for golfers of all skill levels.
- The City Golf Championship: This annual tournament is held at the Chelsea Piers Golf Club and features a variety of divisions for golfers of all skill levels.
Golf Equipment
New York City is home to many golf shops and stores that offer a wide range of golf equipment and accessories. Some popular options include:
- Golf Galaxy: This national chain of golf stores offers a wide range of golf clubs, balls, bags, and accessories from top brands.
- The Country Club at Mirbeau: This luxury golf club offers a pro shop with a wide range of golf clubs, balls, bags, and accessories from top brands.
- Golf & Tennis Pro Shop: This independent golf store in Queens offers a wide range of golf clubs, balls, bags, and accessories from top brands.
By taking advantage of these additional resources, you can improve your game and make the most of your time on the golf course in New York City.
Golf Shops and Equipment Rentals
ClubFitter
ClubFitter is a popular golf shop located in New York City that offers a wide range of golf equipment and accessories. The shop is staffed by knowledgeable and experienced golf professionals who can help golfers find the right equipment for their game. ClubFitter carries a variety of golf clubs, balls, bags, and other accessories from top brands, including Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade. In addition to selling equipment, ClubFitter also offers club fitting services to ensure that golfers get the perfect fit for their swing.
Golf Galaxy
Golf Galaxy is another well-known golf shop in New York City that provides golfers with a wide selection of equipment and accessories. The shop carries a variety of golf clubs, balls, bags, and apparel from top brands, including Nike, Footjoy, and Adams. Golf Galaxy also offers club fitting services, as well as repair services for golf clubs and golf bags. The staff at Golf Galaxy are knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to help golfers find the right equipment for their game.
The Golf Room
The Golf Room is a luxury golf shop located in New York City that offers a wide range of high-end golf equipment and accessories. The shop carries a variety of golf clubs, balls, bags, and apparel from top brands, including PXG, Titleist, and Footjoy. The Golf Room also offers club fitting services, as well as custom club building services for golfers who want a truly unique and personalized set of clubs. The staff at The Golf Room are knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to help golfers find the right equipment for their game.
Golf Lessons and Training
- Michael Jacobs Golf
- Michael Jacobs Golf is a highly regarded golf instruction facility located in the heart of New York City.
- With a team of experienced and certified instructors, Michael Jacobs Golf offers private and group lessons, clinics, and golf fitting services.
- The facility also features a state-of-the-art swing analysis technology, which helps golfers to improve their swings and overall game.
- Michael Jacobs Golf also offers a unique and innovative approach to teaching golf, focusing on the biomechanics of the swing and the mental aspect of the game.
- The Golf Spot
- The Golf Spot is a popular golf training facility in New York City, providing golfers with a wide range of services and amenities.
- The facility offers private and group lessons, as well as a variety of clinics and workshops, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
- The Golf Spot also features a large indoor hitting bay, equipped with the latest golf technology and a short game area, allowing golfers to practice their chipping and putting skills.
- In addition, The Golf Spot offers club fitting and repair services, as well as custom club building and repair services.
- Jim McLean Golf Schools
- Jim McLean Golf Schools is a well-known golf instruction facility, with locations throughout the United States, including New York City.
- The facility is run by Jim McLean, a renowned golf instructor and author, who has worked with some of the world’s top golfers.
- Jim McLean Golf Schools offers a variety of programs and services, including private and group lessons, clinics, and corporate events.
- The facility also features a state-of-the-art swing analysis system, as well as a large indoor hitting bay and a short game area, providing golfers with a comprehensive golf training experience.
Golf Tournaments and Events
Golfers in New York City have access to a wide range of tournaments and events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular options:
The Metropolitan Golf Association
The Metropolitan Golf Association (MGA) is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf associations in the country. It was founded in 1892 and is dedicated to promoting the game of golf in the metropolitan area. The MGA hosts a variety of tournaments and events throughout the year, including the MGA Championship, the Met Open, and the MGA Amateur. These events are open to golfers of all skill levels and provide a great opportunity to compete against other players in the area.
The New York State Golf Association
The New York State Golf Association (NYSGA) is another great resource for golfers in New York City. The NYSGA hosts a variety of tournaments and events throughout the year, including the NYSGA Amateur Championship, the NYSGA Open Championship, and the NYSGA Senior Championship. These events are open to golfers of all skill levels and provide a great opportunity to compete against other players in the state.
The City Tour Golf
The City Tour Golf is a series of golf tournaments that are specifically designed for golfers in the metropolitan area. These tournaments are open to golfers of all skill levels and provide a great opportunity to compete against other players in the city. The City Tour Golf hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the City Tour Golf Championship, the City Tour Golf Open, and the City Tour Golf Amateur. These events are held at some of the best golf courses in the city and provide a great opportunity to test your skills against other players.
Golf and Travel Packages
If you’re looking to combine your love for golf with a getaway, there are several golf and travel packages available for New York City. These packages offer a range of options, from weekend trips to longer vacations, and can include everything from tee times to accommodations and transportation. Here are a few options to consider:
- Tee Times USA: This company offers a variety of golf packages to destinations around the world, including New York City. They can help you book tee times at some of the city’s top courses, as well as arrange accommodations and transportation.
- Golf Travel Bureau: This travel agency specializes in golf vacations and can help you plan a trip to New York City that includes rounds of golf at some of the city’s best courses. They can also help you book flights, hotels, and rental cars.
- Golf Vacations: This company offers a range of golf vacation packages, including options in New York City. They can help you book tee times, accommodations, and transportation, and can also provide recommendations for restaurants and other activities.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other golfers to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. And don’t forget to plan ahead – many of these packages book up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
FAQs
1. Can you golf in New York City?
Yes, you can golf in New York City. There are several golf courses located within the city limits, as well as a few just outside of the city. Some of the most popular courses include the Manhattan Golf & Tennis Club, the Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course, and the Forest Park Golf Course.
2. How many golf courses are there in New York City?
There are approximately 15 golf courses located within the five boroughs of New York City.
3. What are the best golf courses in New York City?
The best golf courses in New York City are subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences. However, some of the most highly rated courses include the Metropolitan Golf Association’s courses such as the West Course at Winged Foot Golf Club, the East Course at the Country Club at Lake Valhalla, and the North Course at Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses.
4. How much does it cost to play golf in New York City?
The cost of playing golf in New York City can vary depending on the course and time of day. Generally, it can range from $30 to $100 or more for a round of 18 holes, including cart and tax. Some courses may offer discounts for twilight or weekday rounds.
5. Are there any public golf courses in New York City?
Yes, there are several public golf courses in New York City. Some of the most popular public courses include the Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course, the Forest Park Golf Course, and the Flushing Meadows Corona Park Golf Course.
6. Can I rent golf clubs in New York City?
Yes, you can rent golf clubs in New York City. Many of the courses offer club rentals, and there are also several golf retailers throughout the city that rent clubs.
7. Are there any golf instruction or lessons available in New York City?
Yes, there are several golf instruction and lesson options available in New York City. Many of the courses offer lessons from PGA professionals, and there are also several golf instructors who offer private lessons.
8. How do I find the best golf courses in New York City?
You can find the best golf courses in New York City by doing research online, reading reviews, and checking ratings on websites such as Golf Digest or TripAdvisor. Additionally, you can reach out to local golf enthusiasts or join golfing communities in the city to get recommendations.