Table of Contents Show
New York City, renowned for its towering skyscrapers and frenetic pace, might not be the first place that comes to mind for golf enthusiasts. Yet, nestled amidst the urban sprawl are verdant oases where golfers can indulge in their passion. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced golfer seeking new challenges, here’s an insider’s guide to playing golf in NYC.
Table of Contents
The Premier Golf Courses
Bethpage Black Course
Address: 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd, Farmingdale, NY 11735
The crown jewel of New York’s golfing landscape, Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, Long Island, is a public course hosting multiple U.S. Opens and the PGA Championship. Renowned for its challenging layout and immaculate conditioning, Bethpage Black is a must-visit for serious golfers. However, be prepared for a rigorous test of your skills – this course is not for the faint-hearted. Beyond its difficulty, Bethpage Black is celebrated for its historical significance and the stunning beauty of its landscape. A round at Bethpage Black will set you back $130 for non-residents on weekends, while New York residents enjoy a reduced rate of $65.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Penn Station to Farmingdale Station, then take a short taxi ride to the course. Directions to Bethpage Black Course
Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses
Address: 870 Shore Road, Bronx, NY 10464
Nestled in the Bronx, Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses offer two distinct 18-hole layouts within Pelham Bay Park. Pelham Bay, a classic links-style course, provides wide fairways and open vistas, making it more forgiving for beginners. Split Rock, on the other hand, is a tighter, more challenging course with tree-lined fairways and smaller greens. Both courses are known for their scenic beauty and well-maintained conditions. Green fees range from $39 to $51 for weekdays and $44 to $63 for weekends, offering great value for golfers of all levels. Additional amenities include a driving range, putting green, and a clubhouse with dining facilities.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park Station, then transfer to the Bx29 bus to City Island Avenue/Shore Road. Directions to Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses
Visit Pelham Bay & Split Rock Golf Courses
Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point
Address: 500 Hutchinson River Pkwy, Bronx, NY 10465
In the Bronx, Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this links-style course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens and its convenient location make Ferry Point popular. Green fees range from $149 to $215, depending on the day and time. The course also features a state-of-the-art practice facility with a driving range, putting green, and a short game area.
How to Get There: Take the 6 train to Whitlock Avenue from Manhattan, then transfer to the Bx39 bus to Brush Avenue/Hutchinson River Parkway. Directions to Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point
Visit Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point
Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course
Address: 115 Van Cortlandt Park S, Bronx, NY 10471
For a more relaxed round, head to Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course, the oldest public golf course in the U.S. Situated in the Bronx, “Vanny” offers a mix of history and accessibility, with an enjoyable layout for beginners and experienced players. The course is known for its friendly atmosphere, affordability, and the scenic beauty of its tree-lined fairways. Green fees start at $40 for weekdays and $55 for weekends. The facility also includes a driving range and practice greens for putting and chipping.
How to Get There: Take the one train to Van Cortlandt Park-242nd Street from Manhattan. The course is a short walk from the station. Directions to Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course
Visit Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course
Dyker Beach Golf Course
Address: 1030 86th St, Brooklyn, NY 11228
Brooklyn’s Dyker Beach Golf Course offers an enjoyable and convenient golfing experience. This public course features well-maintained greens and a historic clubhouse. Its unique charm lies in its scenic setting and the blend of challenging and accessible holes. Green fees range from $47 to $69, making it an affordable option for NYC golfers. Practice facilities include a driving range and short game areas.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the R train to 86th Street in Brooklyn, then transfer to the B1 bus to 86th Street/7th Avenue. Directions to Dyker Beach Golf Course
Exclusive Private Courses
Winged Foot Golf Club
Address: 851 Fenimore Rd, Mamaroneck, NY 10543
For those seeking an elite golfing experience, Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, just outside the city, is one of the top private clubs in the country. Known for its two championship courses, Winged Foot has hosted numerous major tournaments, including the U.S. Open. Membership is by invitation only, with initiation fees reportedly exceeding $200,000. The club’s exclusivity and impeccably maintained courses make it a premier destination for serious golfers.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central Terminal to Mamaroneck Station, then take a short taxi ride to the club. Directions to Winged Foot Golf Club
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Address: 200 Tuckahoe Rd, Southampton, NY 11968
Located in Southampton, Shinnecock Hills is another prestigious private club with a storied history, having hosted multiple U.S. Opens. The links-style course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for its members. The natural beauty and historical significance of Shinnecock Hills add to its allure. Membership costs are steep, with initiation fees reportedly in the six-figure range and annual dues adding to the expense.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Penn Station to Southampton Station, then take a short taxi ride to the club. Directions to Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Visit Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Stay tuned for more detailed information on top golf shops, indoor golf experiences, and driving ranges in the NYC area.
Driving Ranges in New York City
The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers
Address: 59 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011
This unique driving range on the Hudson River offers golfers four tiers of hitting stalls, each equipped with automatic ball tee-up technology. The club offers a range of lesson packages and practice plans. A half-hour session starts at $25, and various membership options are available for frequent visitors.
How to Get There: Take the C or E train to 23rd Street from Manhattan, then walk west to the Chelsea Piers complex. Directions to The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers
Visit The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers
Randall’s Island Golf Center
Address: 1 Randall’s Island, New York, NY 10035
Located on Randall’s Island, this golf center offers a premier driving range with 82 stalls, including 36 covered and heated bays for year-round practice. The facility also includes a short game area and a mini-golf course. Rates start at $12 for a small bucket of balls and $17 for a large bucket.
How to Get There: Take the M35 bus from 125th Street to Randall’s Island from Manhattan. Directions to Randall’s Island Golf Center
Visit Randall’s Island Golf Center
Brooklyn Golf Center
Address: 3200 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11234
Located in Marine Park, Brooklyn Golf Center features a driving range with 75 hitting stations, including grass and mat tees. The center also offers a putting green, a short game area, and professional instruction. Rates begin at $8 for a small bucket of balls and $14 for a large bucket.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the 2 or 5 train to Flatbush Avenue-Brooklyn College, then transfer to the B41 bus to Veterans Avenue. Directions to Brooklyn Golf Center
With these top-notch golf courses, shops, and driving ranges, New York City offers various options for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking to hone your skills, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple’s vibrant golfing scene. So grab your clubs, hit the links, and experience the excitement of golfing in the city that never sleeps.
Indoor Golf Experiences
Five Iron Golf
Address: Multiple Locations in Manhattan
Five Iron Golf offers a cutting-edge indoor golfing experience for those days when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Located in several spots across Manhattan, Five Iron features state-of-the-art simulators, professional instruction, and a full-service bar. It is a great place to practice or play a round with friends. Rates start at $50 per hour.
How to Get There: The 5 Iron Golf locations are accessible via various subway lines depending on the specific location. Check their website for detailed directions.
Top Golf Shops
NY Golf Center
Address: 131 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Located in Midtown Manhattan, NY, Golf Center is a haven for golfers. The shop boasts an extensive selection of clubs, apparel, and accessories from top brands like Titleist, Callaway, and TaylorMade. Their knowledgeable staff and custom fitting services ensure that every golfer finds the perfect gear to enhance their game.
How to Get There: The shop can take the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, or W trains to the 34th Street-Herald Square station.
Golf Galaxy
Address: 276 Route 4 West, Paramus, NJ 07652
Golf Galaxy in Paramus, New Jersey, just a short drive from the city, offers a comprehensive range of golf equipment and apparel. The store features an indoor driving range and a putting green, allowing golfers to test products before purchasing. Their professional staff can assist with club fittings, repairs, and lessons.
How to Get There: From Manhattan, take the NJ Transit bus 163 or 164 from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Paramus Park Mall.
Paragon Sports
Address: 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
For those in lower Manhattan, Paragon Sports provides a well-curated selection of golf equipment. While not as specialized as some dedicated golf shops, Paragon offers high-quality clubs, clothing, and accessories, making it a convenient stop for urban golfers.
How to Get There: The shop is accessible by taking the N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, or 6 trains to Union Square.
Final Thoughts
With these top-notch golf courses, shops, and driving ranges, New York City offers various options for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking to hone your skills, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple’s vibrant golfing scene. So grab your clubs, hit the links, and experience the excitement of golfing in the city that never sleeps.
