Unveiling Pennsylvania’s Golfing Gems: From Public Paradises to Private Preserves
Pennsylvania boasts a remarkable range of golf courses, catering to every golfer’s desire. From renowned private clubs that have hosted prestigious tournaments to meticulously maintained public courses offering exceptional value, get ready to experience a spectrum of golfing wonderlands.
The Crown Jewels: Pennsylvania’s Top 25 Golf Courses
- Oakmont: Known for its challenging layout and deep bunkers, Oakmont is one of the most iconic and difficult golf courses in the United States. It has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open.
- Merion (East): Located in Pennsylvania, Merion Golf Club is a historic course known for its classic design and tough challenges. It has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and other prestigious tournaments.
- Aronimink: A championship golf course located near Philadelphia, Aronimink is renowned for its pristine conditions and strategic layout. It has hosted several PGA Tour events.
- Country Club of Scranton (Old): This private golf club offers a traditional parkland-style course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens.
- Fox Chapel: Situated in Pittsburgh, Fox Chapel Golf Club features a scenic layout along the Allegheny River. It has hosted professional tournaments on the Champions Tour.
- Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon): Founded in 1854, this historic club boasts a classic William Flynn-designed course with undulating fairways and challenging greens.
- Lancaster (Meadowcreek & Dogwood): Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, this golf club offers two distinct courses: Meadowcreek and Dogwood. Meadowcreek is known for its scenic beauty, while Dogwood provides a challenging test of golf.
- Huntingdon Valley (Toomey & Flynn): A private club with two courses designed by William S. Flynn, Huntingdon Valley offers a traditional golf experience with tree-lined fairways and strategic hazards.
- Lehigh: This private golf club in Pennsylvania features a challenging layout with rolling terrain and scenic views of the Lehigh Valley.
- Philadelphia (Spring Mill): Known for its historic clubhouse and challenging layout, Spring Mill Country Club offers a memorable golf experience in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
- Sunnehanna: Located in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Sunnehanna is a classic golf course with a rich tournament history, including the Sunnehanna Amateur.
- Saucon Valley (Old): A premier golf club in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Saucon Valley boasts a championship course designed by Herbert Strong, featuring challenging holes and beautiful scenery.
- Rolling Green: Situated in Springfield, Pennsylvania, Rolling Green Golf Club is a private club known for its challenging layout and immaculate conditioning.
- Manufacturers’: Founded in 1895, Manufacturers’ Golf & Country Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. Located in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, it offers a classic parkland-style course.
- Laurel Valley: Located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, Laurel Valley Golf Club is a championship course designed by Dick Wilson. It has hosted multiple PGA Tour events.
- Saucon Valley (Weyhill): Another course at Saucon Valley Country Club, Weyhill offers a scenic and challenging golf experience with elevation changes and strategic hazards.
- Gulph Mills: Founded in 1916, Gulph Mills Golf Club is a private club in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, featuring a challenging William Flynn-designed course.
- Applebrook: This private golf club in Malvern, Pennsylvania, offers a modern layout with strategic bunkering and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
- Saucon Valley (Grace): The Grace course at Saucon Valley Country Club provides a challenging yet enjoyable golf experience with scenic views and well-manicured fairways and greens.
- Stonewall (Old): Located in Elverson, Pennsylvania, the Old Course at Stonewall Golf Club is known for its dramatic elevation changes and stunning views of the countryside.
- Pittsburgh Field Club: Established in 1882, this private club in Pittsburgh offers a classic golf experience with a challenging layout and scenic surroundings.
- Huntsville: Situated in Dallas, Pennsylvania, Huntsville Golf Club features a picturesque course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens.
- Allegheny: Located in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Allegheny Country Club offers a traditional parkland-style course with challenging holes and scenic views.
- Longue Vue: Longue Vue Club is a private golf club in Verona, Pennsylvania, known for its challenging layout and panoramic views of the Allegheny River Valley.
- Kahkwa Club: Founded in 1893, Kahkwa Club is a private golf club in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a classic parkland-style course with strategic bunkering and scenic views.
Crafting Your Dream Pennsylvania Golf Experience
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer chasing a Top 100 course or a leisure player seeking a scenic escape, Pennsylvania offers the perfect Golf Getaway. Use this guide as a springboard to explore courses that suit your skill level, desired scenery, and budget. Consider incorporating these elements:
- Location: Do you prefer a course nestled in the mountains, near a charming town, or close to a vibrant city?
- Course Difficulty: Are you seeking a challenging test of your skills or a more relaxed and enjoyable round?
- Budget: Public courses offer exceptional value, while private clubs may require membership or greens fees.
- Additional Activities: Combine your Golf Getaway with visits to historical sites, museums, or local wineries.
Embrace the Spirit of Pennsylvania: Beyond the Greens
Teeing off is just the beginning! Pennsylvania offers a wealth of experiences to complement your Golf Getaway and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the state. Here are some suggestions to craft a truly unforgettable adventure:
Delve into History:
- Valley Forge National Historical Park (King of Prussia): Walk in the footsteps of Revolutionary War heroes at this historic site, featuring reconstructed encampments, museums, and scenic trails.
- Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg): Explore the hallowed grounds of the Gettysburg battlefield, a turning point in the Civil War. Take a guided tour or walk the self-guided battlefield tour for a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.
- Independence Hall (Philadelphia): Witness the birthplace of American democracy, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Take a guided tour and learn about the founding fathers and the fight for freedom.
Explore Charming Towns and Vibrant Cities:
- Philadelphia: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love.” Visit the Liberty Bell, explore the vibrant art scene, and savor delicious cheesesteaks.
- Pittsburgh: Discover the Steel City’s industrial heritage and modern transformation. Take an incline ride up Mount Washington for breathtaking city views, visit the Andy Warhol Museum, or catch a game at PNC Park.
- Lancaster: Step back in time in the heart of Amish country. Explore Amish farms and shops, visit the Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, and enjoy delicious Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
Indulge in the Outdoors:
- Hiking in the Pocono Mountains: Escape to the scenic Pocono Mountains and explore a network of hiking trails offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, and charming lakes.
- Kayaking on the Delaware River: Paddle along the scenic Delaware River and discover historic sites, charming towns, and abundant wildlife.
- Wine Tasting in the Lehigh Valley: Embark on a wine tasting tour through the Lehigh Valley, a growing wine region with award-winning wineries offering beautiful scenery and delicious varietals.
Savor the Local Flavor:
- Pennsylvania Dutch Cuisine: Sample traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes like shoofly pie, scrapple, and pot roast. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit a local farmers market to find fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Craft Beer Scene: Pennsylvania boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous breweries offering unique and delicious beers. Sample local brews and discover your new favorite.
- Chocolate Delights: Indulge in Pennsylvania’s rich chocolate heritage. Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World for a sweet treat or explore local chocolatiers for handcrafted, decadent chocolates.
Remember, this is just a starting point! Pennsylvania offers endless possibilities for exploration beyond the golf course. Craft your dream itinerary by incorporating these suggestions or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems that resonate with your interests.
Have you played any of these gems?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Book your next Golf Getaway and tee off amongst some of the Top 25 Pennsylvania Courses by contacting Golf Getaway at www.GolfGetaway.tv/Contact