By Madison San Miguel By Madison San Miguel | August 3, 2023 | Lifestyle, Guides,
It's time to hit the links. Find the best golf courses in and around New York City.
You may recognize the name Bethpage State Park for the extremely difficult Bethpage Black course, which is recommended for only highly skilled golfers—even being deemed as one of the hardest courses in the country. But lucky for beginners, this Long Island golf course designed by architect A.W. Tillinghast is also widely recognized for its prestigious, public 18-hole golf courses, including the Bethpage Yellow course which is one of the easiest and most casual courses for newcomers. No matter your skill level, you will still be playing on a course that has been used for multiple U.S. Opens. 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd., Farmingdale
Designed by renowned architect, A. W. Tillinghast, the Winged Foot Golf Club is home to two 18-hole golf courses: East and West. At 7,477 yards, the course you play depends on your experience level, and how much of a challenge you’re willing to take—just ask Tiger Woods. Its grassy hills, steep slopes, unique contours and vintage feel are all a part of the course’s original and incredible design. The 2020 U.S. Open was held at Winged Foot, so if you know a member of the club, then you’re in luck. 851 Fenimore Rd., Mamaroneck
Fresh Meadow Country Club is another Long Island location, but slightly closer to the city. With 6,749 yards of terrain, Fresh Meadow is an 18-hole course that has long been beloved for its greens. Thanks to architect Charles Hugh Alison, the course’s par 3s, par 4s and bunkers are a favorite to many golfers because they’re fast, sloped and smooth. The course has also been recognized for its excellent maintenance and service. Since there are few courses in the U.S. designed by Alison, Fresh Meadow is a must-visit. 255 Lakeville Rd., Lake Success
Quaker Ridge is another golf course designed by architect A. W. Tillinghast, but this course is considered one of Tillinhast’s hidden treasures. It was later restored in 2002 by architect Gil Hanse, who improved the shape of the greens, rebuilt the bunkers and made other improvements that still honored its original design. And because of these slight adjustments, Quaker Ridge continues to be recognized for their powerful greens, smooth terrain and their drivable yet challenging par 4s. If you are a golf history buff, this is a course that should definitely be on your bucket list. 146 Griffen Ave., Scarsdale, NY
As though NYC couldn’t surprise you even more. Situated in Brooklyn, Marine Park Golf Course is another public course but more for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Designed by architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., Marine Park is considered one of the longest courses in NYC, with some areas of the course measuring over 7,000 yards and others above 5,000 yards. The links-style course pushes the idea of “pace-of-play,’’ so even newcomers have the opportunity to challenge the course too. While you’re there, make sure to admire the stunning views of the water. 2880 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn
Photography by: Photo by jacoblund/iStock
