New York isn’t just known for skyscrapers, Broadway, and scenic upstate landscapes — it’s also home to some of the most prestigious and stunning golf courses in the United States. From the rolling hills of Westchester to the pristine greens of Long Island, the Empire State offers a variety of courses that have hosted some of the greatest moments in golf history. Let’s explore some of the best golf courses in New York and the iconic golfers who have left their mark on these legendary fairways.
1. Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Location: Southampton, Long Island
Founded in 1891, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is not only one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States, but it’s also one of the most revered. Designed by Willie Dunn and later revamped by William Flynn, this classic links-style course has hosted the U.S. Open five times, most recently in 2018. Known for its undulating fairways, challenging bunkers, and ocean breezes, Shinnecock Hills offers a tough test for any golfer.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Brooks Koepka secured his back-to-back U.S. Open titles here in 2018.
• Jack Nicklaus, the Golden Bear himself, competed here during the 1974 and 1986 U.S. Opens.
• Tiger Woods also tackled Shinnecock Hills during the 2004 and 2018 U.S. Opens.
2. Bethpage Black Course
Location: Farmingdale, Long Island
Renowned for its warning sign at the first tee that reads, “The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers,” Bethpage Black is a public course with a championship pedigree. This masterpiece, designed by A.W. Tillinghast, is known for its challenging layout, deep bunkers, and punishing rough.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Tiger Woods claimed victory here during the 2002 U.S. Open.
• Phil Mickelson finished second in the 2002 and 2009 U.S. Opens.
• Rory McIlroy showcased his skills during the 2019 PGA Championship held at Bethpage Black.
3. Winged Foot Golf Club
Location: Mamaroneck, Westchester County
Winged Foot’s West Course, designed by A.W. Tillinghast, is known for its incredibly difficult greens and narrow fairways. The course has hosted six U.S. Opens, most recently in 2020. The East Course, equally challenging, has also seen its share of professional tournaments.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Bryson DeChambeau powered his way to a dominant victory at the 2020 U.S. Open.
• Hale Irwin triumphed in a legendary finish at the 1974 U.S. Open, known as “The Massacre at Winged Foot.”
• Bobby Jones, one of the greatest amateurs of all time, won the 1929 U.S. Open at Winged Foot.
4. Oak Hill Country Club
Location: Rochester, New York
Oak Hill’s East Course, designed by Donald Ross, is a beautiful yet brutal layout that has hosted numerous major championships, including multiple PGA Championships and U.S. Opens. The course is defined by its tree-lined fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging greens.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Jason Dufner clinched his first major title at the 2013 PGA Championship held at Oak Hill.
• Jack Nicklaus won the 1980 PGA Championship here, solidifying his legacy.
• Lee Trevino also made history by winning the 1968 U.S. Open at Oak Hill.
5. National Golf Links of America
Location: Southampton, Long Island
This C.B. Macdonald-designed course is a masterpiece of early American golf course architecture. Known for its strategic design and stunning views of Peconic Bay, National Golf Links of America is exclusive and steeped in tradition.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Walter Hagen, one of golf’s early legends, often played here during exhibitions and events.
• Bobby Jones played at National Golf Links frequently in the early part of the 20th century.
• The course hosted the inaugural Walker Cup in 1922, cementing its historical significance.
6. Sleepy Hollow Country Club
Location: Briarcliff Manor, Westchester County
Set along the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow Country Club offers breathtaking views and a classic design by Charles Blair Macdonald and A.W. Tillinghast. It’s known for its unique blend of challenging holes and beautiful scenery.
Famous Golfers Who Played Here:
• Sam Snead, the all-time PGA Tour wins leader, played numerous exhibitions here.
• Modern golfers like Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy have enjoyed rounds at this scenic gem.
Honorable Mentions
• Sebonack Golf Club – Another Southampton gem with Jack Nicklaus and Tom Doak’s design touch.
• Friar’s Head – A newer, yet celebrated Long Island course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.
• Fishers Island Club – A stunning, remote course offering breathtaking Atlantic views.
Conclusion
New York offers a treasure trove of world-class golf courses, rich in history, design, and challenges. Whether it’s the historic battles fought at Shinnecock Hills, the public grittiness of Bethpage Black, or the stately beauty of Winged Foot, these courses have provided unforgettable moments in the game of golf. The legacy of the famous golfers who’ve played here continues to inspire both seasoned professionals and passionate amateurs alike.
If you’re looking to walk in the footsteps of legends, New York’s golf scene offers a blend of challenge, beauty, and tradition that’s hard to match.
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