New York is a haven for golf enthusiasts, with a multitude of world-class golf courses scattered throughout the state. However, for professional golfers, the question of where to play in New York can be a daunting one. With so many options available, how does one determine which courses are the best for the PGA? In this article, we will explore the top golf courses in New York that are sure to provide a challenging and unforgettable experience for PGA players. From the lush greens of the Hudson Valley to the picturesque fairways of the Finger Lakes region, we will uncover the hidden gems and legendary courses that every PGA player should add to their bucket list. So, grab your clubs and get ready to discover the best golf courses that New York has to offer!
Exploring the Top Golf Destinations in New York
The Donald Ross-designed Pinehurst No. 8
History and Significance
Pinehurst No. 8, located in Pinehurst, New York, holds significant historical value as it was designed by the legendary golf course architect, Donald Ross. Ross, a Scottish immigrant, was a renowned golf course designer who left an indelible mark on the sport. He designed over 400 golf courses, including several other iconic courses in the United States. Pinehurst No. 8, opened in 1907, is one of his many creations and is regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the country.
Course Design and Features
The course is set amidst a picturesque landscape with mature trees, rolling hills, and strategically placed sand traps. Pinehurst No. 8 is a par-70 course that spans 6,838 yards. The layout features a mix of narrow and wide fairways, demanding precise shot-making from golfers. The course is characterized by its undulating greens, which are well-bunkered and provide a challenging test for even the most skilled players. The course also boasts a variety of hole designs, including some with double greens, adding to the unique nature of the layout.
Challenges and Strategies
Pinehurst No. 8 presents a formidable challenge to golfers, with its well-bunkered greens and strategically placed hazards. The course requires precision shot-making, as the narrow fairways demand accuracy rather than distance. Golfers must also be mindful of the wind direction, as it can significantly impact the playability of certain holes. To succeed at Pinehurst No. 8, golfers must employ a range of strategies, including utilizing the proper golf clubs, selecting the optimal line of attack, and managing their ball placement in the sand traps. Additionally, the course’s double greens demand a deft touch, as players must be able to adapt their approach shots to suit the varying contours and distances. Overall, Pinehurst No. 8 is a true test of golfing skill and requires players to employ a combination of power, precision, and strategy to succeed.
The Legendary Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, established in 1891, is steeped in history and is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. Located in Southampton, New York, the club has hosted several prestigious golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open Championship in 1896, 1986, and 2018. It is also the first golf club outside of Scotland to host the British Open Championship in 1892.
The course was designed by the legendary golf architect, William F. Davis, and has since been redesigned by several renowned golf course architects, including Dick Wilson, Tom Doak, and Gil Hanse. The course features rolling terrain, vast sand dunes, and coastal winds, which make it a challenging and unique golfing experience.
The Shinnecock Hills Golf Club boasts 18 holes, par-70, and stretches over 7,463 yards. The course is known for its narrow fairways, small greens, and strategically placed bunkers, which require precision and skill from golfers. The course also features several water hazards, including ponds and streams, which can affect the play of golfers.
The course’s challenging layout and diverse terrain require golfers to employ various strategies to excel. The narrow fairways demand accuracy and precision, while the strategically placed bunkers and water hazards require golfers to think carefully about their shots. Golfers must also contend with the wind, which can be a significant factor in determining the outcome of a game.
The Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a true test of golfing skills and requires golfers to employ a range of strategies to succeed. Its challenging layout, unique terrain, and stunning scenery make it a must-visit destination for golfers participating in the PGA tournaments in New York.
The Beautiful and Scenic Bethpage State Park
Bethpage State Park, located in Farmingdale, New York, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. It was originally established as a park for the people of Long Island, and over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular golf destinations in the country. The park is significant because it offers a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and challenging golf courses that attract golfers from all over the world.
Bethpage State Park is home to five golf courses, each with its own unique design and features. The most famous of these courses is the Black Course, which has hosted several major golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open in 2002 and 2009. The course was designed by A.W. Tillinghast, a renowned golf course architect who was known for his ability to create challenging and memorable courses.
The Black Course is a par-70, 7,465-yard masterpiece that winds its way through the rolling hills and valleys of Bethpage State Park. It features narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens that require precision and skill to navigate. The course also boasts a unique layout that provides golfers with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including trees, ponds, and the Long Island skyline.
Bethpage State Park is known for its challenging golf courses, and the Black Course is no exception. The course demands precision and strategy from golfers, as they must navigate through tight fairways and avoid strategically placed hazards. Golfers must also contend with the wind, which can be a significant factor on several holes.
To succeed on the Black Course, golfers must be willing to think strategically and plan their shots carefully. They must also be willing to adapt to changing conditions, such as wind direction and speed, and make adjustments to their game plan as needed.
Overall, Bethpage State Park is a must-visit destination for any serious golfer looking to challenge themselves on one of the most iconic golf courses in the world. With its stunning natural beauty, challenging layout, and rich history, Bethpage State Park offers a truly unique golfing experience that is not to be missed.
The Picturesque Maidstone Club
The Maidstone Club, located in East Hampton, New York, holds a rich history dating back to 1897. It was founded by a group of wealthy businessmen and sports enthusiasts who sought to create a private club for golf, tennis, and other recreational activities. The club quickly gained popularity among the elite of New York society, and its membership has included many notable figures over the years, including politicians, celebrities, and athletes.
The Maidstone Club’s golf course was designed by the renowned architectural firm of Charles B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor in the early 1900s. The course is known for its unique and challenging layout, with narrow fairways, small greens, and strategically placed bunkers. The course also features several water hazards, including a river that runs through the middle of the property.
One of the most distinctive features of the Maidstone Club’s course is its use of natural terrain and vegetation. The course is routed through rolling hills, wooded areas, and meadows, providing golfers with a diverse and picturesque experience. The course’s signature hole is the par-3 17th, which plays over a pond to a small green surrounded by bunkers.
The Maidstone Club’s course is considered one of the most challenging in the New York area, with a slope rating of 143 from the championship tees. The narrow fairways and small greens require precision and accuracy, while the strategically placed bunkers and water hazards demand careful consideration and planning.
Golfers must also contend with the course’s variable wind conditions, which can affect play on many of the holes. The course’s unique layout and challenging features make it a popular choice for tournaments and events, including the U.S. Open qualifier, which has been held at the Maidstone Club several times.
Overall, the Maidstone Club’s golf course offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels, with its picturesque design, natural terrain, and strategic challenges.
The Prestigious Oakmont Country Club
Nestled in the picturesque town of Oakmont, New York, the Oakmont Country Club is steeped in rich history and tradition. Established in 1909, the club has played host to numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including the US Open on eight occasions. The legendary golf course architect, Donald Ross, designed the original 18-hole layout, which has since been expanded to 27 holes.
The Oakmont Country Club boasts a unique and challenging design, characterized by its narrow fairways, small greens, and strategically placed bunkers. Ross’s vision was to create a course that would test the skills of even the most accomplished golfers. The course is known for its tight driving corridors, requiring precision and accuracy from tee to green.
One of the most notable features of the Oakmont Country Club is its iconic “Church Pews” bunker, which is situated on the 16th hole. This bunker, with its distinctive row of steep, angled faces, poses a significant challenge to golfers, demanding creative shot-making and precision.
The Oakmont Country Club is widely regarded as one of the most challenging courses in the United States, and for good reason. Its narrow fairways, strategically placed hazards, and small greens demand a high level of skill and precision from golfers.
To excel at Oakmont, golfers must employ a range of strategies, including accurate driving, precise approach shots, and masterful green-reading skills. The course rewards players who think strategically and can adapt their game plans based on the ever-changing conditions.
Additionally, Oakmont’s fast and undulating greens demand a deft touch, with golfers needing to manage their speeds and curves to avoid three-putts or worse. A deep understanding of green complexes and a well-honed short game are essential to scoring well at Oakmont.
In conclusion, the Oakmont Country Club is a true test of golfing prowess, blending history, challenging design, and strategic complexity to create a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
The Unique and Scenic Van Cortlandt Park Public Golf Course
Nestled in the heart of Van Cortlandt Park, the Van Cortlandt Park Public Golf Course is steeped in history and significance. Originally opened in 1895, the course was designed by the renowned architect, Tom Bendelow, who also designed the famed Medinah Country Club in Illinois. Over the years, the course has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open in 1931 and 1934.
The Van Cortlandt Park Public Golf Course boasts a unique and challenging design that makes it a favorite among golf enthusiasts. Measuring 6,219 yards from the longest tees, the course features narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and well-protected greens. The layout of the course winds through the rolling hills and dense woodlands of Van Cortlandt Park, providing golfers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The Van Cortlandt Park Public Golf Course is known for its challenging play, with its narrow fairways and well-guarded greens requiring precise shot-making. Golfers must employ strategic thinking and execution to navigate the course’s many hazards, including the famous “Railroad Hole,” which features a railroad track that runs along the left side of the fairway. In addition, the course’s undulating greens and challenging pin positions require golfers to employ a variety of shot types, from delicate chip shots to long, accurate approach shots. Overall, the Van Cortlandt Park Public Golf Course presents a unique and exciting challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
PGA Tournaments Held in New York
The US Open
The US Open is one of the four major championships in professional golf, and it is held annually by the United States Golf Association (USGA). The tournament was first held in 1895, and since then, it has become one of the most prestigious events in golf. The US Open is known for its challenging courses and high level of competition, and it attracts some of the best golfers in the world.
Tournaments Held in New York
New York has hosted the US Open several times over the years, with some of the most notable events taking place at the iconic courses of Shinnecock Hills Golf Club and Oakmont Country Club. These courses have played host to some of the most memorable moments in US Open history, and they continue to be popular choices for the tournament.
Most Memorable Moments
There have been many memorable moments in the history of the US Open, and some of the most notable events have taken place in New York. One of the most memorable moments was in 1986, when Jack Nicklaus became the oldest golfer to win the US Open at the age of 46. Another memorable moment was in 2006, when Tiger Woods won his third US Open title at the age of 30, solidifying his position as one of the greatest golfers of all time.
The PGA Championship
The PGA Championship is one of the four major championships in professional golf, and it has a rich history dating back to 1916. It is the final major of the golf season and is played in August. The tournament is open to professional golfers who have qualified through various means, such as winning a PGA Tour event or being ranked high enough in the Official World Golf Rankings.
The PGA Championship has been held in New York several times, with some of the most prestigious courses in the state hosting the event. Some of the notable courses that have hosted the PGA Championship in New York include:
- Bethpage State Park: This public golf course in Farmingdale, Long Island, has hosted the PGA Championship twice, in 2002 and 2009. It is known for its challenging layout and has been ranked as one of the best public golf courses in the United States.
- Oak Hill Country Club: This private golf club in Rochester, New York, has hosted the PGA Championship four times, most recently in 2013. It is known for its challenging greens and has hosted several other major golf tournaments over the years.
- The Country Club at Lake Harmony: This private golf club in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, has hosted the PGA Championship twice, in 1927 and 1987. It is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging holes.
There have been many memorable moments in the history of the PGA Championship held in New York. Some of the most notable include:
- In 2002, Tiger Woods won the PGA Championship at Bethpage State Park, marking his fourth major championship victory.
- In 2009, Y.E. Yang became the first Asian-born player to win a major championship when he defeated Tiger Woods in a playoff at Bethpage State Park.
- In 2013, Jason Dufner won the PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club, marking his first major championship victory.
The Barclays
The Barclays is one of the four FedEx Cup playoff events held in the United States. It was first introduced in 1967 as the Westchester Classic, and was later renamed as the Barclays in 2008, after the Barclays Bank acquired the naming rights. The tournament is played over four days, and it is considered one of the most prestigious events in the PGA Tour.
The Barclays is held annually at various golf courses in the New York metropolitan area. The tournament rotates between several courses, including Bethpage State Park, The Country Club at Miramar, and Liberty National Golf Club. The courses are selected based on their difficulty, reputation, and popularity among golfers.
The Barclays has been the site of many memorable moments in golf history. Some of the most notable moments include Tiger Woods’ victory in 2006, which was his first win after a scandal that almost ended his career. Another memorable moment was Phil Mickelson’s win in 2005, which was his first major championship victory. In 2012, The Barclays was held at Bethpage State Park, which was the first time a major tournament was held in New York state. That tournament was won by Nick Watney, who shot a record-setting 267 in the final round.
The Players Championship
The Players Championship is one of the most prestigious events in professional golf, with a rich history dating back to 1974. It is held annually at the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, but has also been hosted in New York on several occasions.
Over the years, The Players Championship has been held at several golf courses in New York, including the Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey, and the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York. These courses have provided a challenging test for the world’s top golfers, and have played host to some of the most memorable moments in the tournament’s history.
One of the most memorable moments in The Players Championship’s history took place at the Baltusrol Golf Club in 1993. That year, Greg Norman came from behind to win the tournament in a sudden-death playoff against Nick Faldo, in what is widely considered one of the greatest finishes in golf history.
Another memorable moment came at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in 2004, when Phil Mickelson won the tournament in a three-way playoff against Thomas Bjorn and David Duval. Mickelson’s victory was all the more impressive given that he had injured his wrist just a few weeks earlier, and was playing with a cast on his arm.
Overall, The Players Championship has a long and storied history in New York, and has provided some of the most thrilling moments in golf over the years. Whether played at Baltusrol or Shinnecock Hills, the tournament has always provided a tough test for the world’s best golfers, and has helped to establish New York as a key player in the world of professional golf.
Best Golf Courses for PGA Pros in New York
The Hamptons Golf Club
The Hamptons Golf Club is one of the most popular golf courses for PGA pros in New York. The course is located in the heart of the Hamptons, known for its picturesque scenery and luxurious lifestyle. The golf course is designed by renowned architects and boasts a challenging layout that tests even the most skilled golfers.
The Hamptons Golf Club features narrow fairways lined with towering trees, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that come into play on several holes. The course’s challenging layout requires golfers to employ precise shot-making and strategic thinking to negotiate the course successfully.
In addition to the course’s natural hazards, the wind also plays a significant role in the game. The course’s location by the sea means that the wind can be unpredictable, making it difficult to judge the distance and direction of shots. Golfers must adapt their strategies to the conditions to excel at this course.
PGA Tournaments Hosted
The Hamptons Golf Club has hosted several prestigious PGA tournaments over the years, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course’s challenging layout and world-class facilities make it an ideal venue for top-level golf tournaments.
Golfers who have competed at The Hamptons Golf Club praise the course’s design and challenge, with many noting that it requires a combination of skill, strategy, and patience to excel. With its stunning scenery, challenging layout, and rich history of hosting top-level tournaments, The Hamptons Golf Club is a must-visit for any serious golfer looking to test their skills in New York.
The Country Club at Castle Pines
The Country Club at Castle Pines is a stunning golf course located in the heart of New York. It is designed by one of the most renowned golf course architects, Tom Fazio, and is known for its challenging and strategic layout. The course features a variety of holes, including par 3s, 4s, and 5s, which require players to use a range of clubs and shot-making skills.
Castle Pines is known for its challenging greens, which are well-guarded by strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. The course also features rolling hills, tight fairways, and undulating terrain, which can make it difficult for players to find the right angle of attack. Players must also be mindful of the wind, which can be a significant factor in determining the best approach to each hole.
The Country Club at Castle Pines has hosted several PGA tournaments over the years, including the Barclays, which is a FedEx Cup playoff event. The course has also been the site of the Senior PGA Championship and the U.S. Open. These events have showcased the course’s challenging design and have helped to establish it as one of the premier golf courses in New York.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa, Grande Lakes
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa, Grande Lakes, is an 18-hole golf course that spans 7,237 yards. The course was designed by two-time Masters Champion, Greg Norman, and is renowned for its challenging and picturesque design. The course features wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and numerous water hazards, making it a true test of golf skills for PGA pros.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa, Grande Lakes, offers a unique challenge for PGA pros with its well-bunkered greens and strategically placed hazards. The course also features numerous water hazards, including lakes and streams, which come into play on several holes. To succeed at this course, PGA pros must be strategic in their approach, choosing the right club and angle of attack to avoid the hazards and reach the greens in regulation.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa, Grande Lakes, has hosted several PGA tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s Arnold Palmer Invitational. The course has also hosted the LPGA Tour’s Pelican Women’s Championship and the Web.com Tour’s Chiquita Classic. These tournaments have attracted some of the world’s top golfers, showcasing the course’s challenging design and excellent conditioning.
Overall, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club & Spa, Grande Lakes, is a must-play course for PGA pros looking to test their skills in a challenging and beautiful setting. Its well-designed layout, strategic challenges, and prestigious tournament history make it a top choice for golfers of all skill levels.
The Northeast Pennsylvania Golf Club
The Northeast Pennsylvania Golf Club, located in the picturesque Pocono Mountains, boasts a stunning 18-hole golf course designed by renowned architect A.W. Tillinghast. The course opened in 1922 and has since hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including the 1984 U.S. Women’s Open and the 1995 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship.
The course’s design incorporates strategic bunkering, rolling terrain, and subtle contours that create a challenging yet fair test of golf for players of all skill levels. The layout winds through dense woodlands, around scenic ponds, and across gently sloping meadows, making each hole unique and memorable.
Golfers at the Northeast Pennsylvania Golf Club face a variety of challenges, including well-placed bunkers, strategically positioned water hazards, and tight fairways that demand precise shot-making. The course’s undulating greens are subtly sloped and often large, requiring players to navigate the breaks and maintain the correct pace to score well.
One of the course’s signature holes is the par-3 16th, which measures 215 yards from the back tees and features a peninsula green guarded by a trio of bunkers. Players must carry their tee shots over a small pond and avoid the sand traps to have a decent chance at par or better.
As a testament to its quality and reputation, the Northeast Pennsylvania Golf Club has hosted several prestigious PGA tournaments over the years. The course’s challenging design and impeccable conditioning have consistently attracted top professional and amateur golfers, making it a popular destination for competitive play.
By hosting these events, the club has built a strong reputation within the golfing community and further solidified its position as one of the best golf courses in New York for the PGA. Its continued commitment to maintaining high standards and hosting top-tier tournaments ensures that the Northeast Pennsylvania Golf Club remains a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Old White TPC at the Greenbrier
The Old White TPC at the Greenbrier is a golf course that was designed by the famous golf course architect, C.B. Macdonald. The course features rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and strategically placed bunkers. It has a par of 70 and spans 7,293 yards. The course is known for its challenging layout and is considered one of the most difficult courses on the PGA tour.
The Old White TPC at the Greenbrier is a challenging course that requires precision and strategy. The course features narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers, making it difficult to reach the greens in regulation. The course also has large undulating greens that are difficult to read, making it challenging to sink putts. Players must use strategy and precision to navigate the course and score well.
The Old White TPC at the Greenbrier has hosted several PGA tournaments, including the Greenbrier Classic. The course has also hosted the Senior Open Championship and the Ryder Cup. The course has a rich history and is known for its challenging layout, making it a popular choice for PGA tournaments.
In conclusion, The Old White TPC at the Greenbrier is a challenging golf course that features a strategic layout, narrow fairways, and large undulating greens. It has hosted several PGA tournaments and is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It is a must-play course for any serious golfer looking to test their skills on one of the best golf courses in New York for the PGA.
The Atlanta Athletic Club
The Atlanta Athletic Club is one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the United States, located in the heart of New York City. It boasts two championship golf courses, which are designed by renowned golf course architects such as Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast. The courses feature rolling hills, mature trees, and strategically placed bunkers, making them challenging for even the most experienced golfers.
The courses at the Atlanta Athletic Club are known for their challenging terrain and strategic play. The fairways are narrow and lined with tall trees, requiring precision and accuracy from tee to green. The rough is thick and punishing, making it difficult to recover from wayward shots. The greens are large and undulating, with subtle borrows and tricky pin positions that demand creative shot-making.
In addition to the physical challenges, the courses also present strategic decisions for golfers. With multiple options for approach shots and hazards strategically placed throughout the courses, golfers must weigh risk against reward when choosing their shots. The courses also feature well-placed bunkers and water hazards that can come into play on many holes, forcing golfers to be precise with their shots.
The Atlanta Athletic Club has a rich history of hosting prestigious PGA tournaments. It has been the site of several US Open championships, as well as the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup. The club’s reputation as a challenging and strategic course has made it a favorite among golfers and fans alike, and it continues to host top-level tournaments to this day.
In conclusion, the Atlanta Athletic Club is a must-visit for any serious golfer looking to challenge themselves on one of the best golf courses in New York for the PGA. With its challenging design, strategic play, and storied history of hosting top-level tournaments, it is a true test of golfing skill and endurance.
FAQs
1. Where does the PGA play in New York?
The PGA plays at various golf courses throughout New York State. Some of the most popular courses for PGA events include the Bethpage State Park’s Black Course in Farmingdale, the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, and the Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester.
2. What are some of the best golf courses in New York for the PGA?
Some of the best golf courses in New York for the PGA include the aforementioned Bethpage State Park’s Black Course, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, and Oak Hill Country Club. Other notable courses include the Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina, the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, and the St. Andrews Old Course in Scotland.
3. Are there any PGA events held in New York City?
Yes, there are PGA events held in New York City. The PGA Tour stops in New York City annually for the Barclays tournament, which is held at a different course each year. Additionally, the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational is held at Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio, which is about a 30-minute drive from Manhattan.
4. What are the requirements for hosting a PGA event in New York?
The requirements for hosting a PGA event in New York include having a golf course that meets the PGA’s strict standards for tournament play, as well as the availability of sufficient facilities for players, spectators, and media. The course must also have the necessary infrastructure to support a large-scale event, including parking, security, and transportation.
5. How can I attend a PGA event in New York?
To attend a PGA event in New York, you can purchase tickets through the PGA Tour’s official website or through other reputable ticket sellers. You can also check with the specific course where the event is being held to see if they are offering any ticket packages or special deals. It’s important to note that tickets for PGA events can sell out quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance if possible.
