13 Oldest Golf Courses in America

Golf courses in America date back well over a century, and these historic greens have seen countless legends tee off. Each course holds unique stories, scenic landscapes, and layouts that connect golfers to the early roots of the game. Here’s a closer look at thirteen of America’s oldest golf courses, complete with each one’s notable characteristics and timeless appeal.

Foxburg Country Club – Foxburg, PA (1887)

Foxburg Country Club, founded in 1887, is America’s oldest continuously operated golf course, located in Foxburg, Pennsylvania. This semi-private club features a traditional 9-hole layout that covers about 60 acres, nestled in the scenic Allegheny Mountains. Known for its historical charm, the course has challenging holes lined with mature trees and undulating fairways that reflect the natural landscape. Foxburg welcomes visitors, allowing players to experience over 130 years of golf heritage. The clubhouse also houses the American Golf Hall of Fame, making it a must-visit destination for those intrigued by golf’s past.

Saint Andrew’s Golf Club – Hastings-on-Hudson, NY (1888)

Saint Andrew’s Golf Club, established in 1888 in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, is one of the oldest private clubs in the U.S. Known as the “home of golf in America,” the club offers a historic 18-hole course spread across approximately 150 acres of rolling, wooded terrain. This prestigious club was also the first in the U.S. to join the United States Golf Association (USGA), marking its influence on the sport’s development. Each hole presents unique challenges, with scenic fairways and greens set among lush trees and strategic bunkers, upholding the tradition that has defined this course for over a century.

Dorset Field Club – Dorset, VT (1886)

Founded in 1886, Dorset Field Club in Dorset, Vermont, is among the oldest private golf clubs in America. This charming course offers a classic 9-hole layout covering around 55 acres, providing golfers with a picturesque view of Vermont’s natural beauty. The fairways are lined with mature trees, and subtle elevation changes add to the challenge of the course, creating a true test of skill. Dorset Field Club embraces its close-knit community, inviting members to celebrate its long history and respect for the game. Its intimate layout preserves a traditional golfing experience, making it a unique destination for golf enthusiasts.

The Country Club – Brookline, MA (1882)

The Country Club, established in 1882 in Brookline, Massachusetts, is one of America’s most prestigious and historically significant courses. This private club boasts a 27-hole layout, with a main 18-hole course and an additional 9-hole Primrose course, spread across roughly 225 acres of scenic New England landscape. Known for hosting major championships, including the U.S. Open, The Country Club has earned a revered place in golf history. Its rolling fairways and challenging bunkers reflect classic course design principles, offering a memorable and demanding experience for members. This storied club remains a cornerstone of American golf tradition.

Newport Country Club – Newport, RI (1893)

Located along the coast of Rhode Island, Newport Country Club was established in 1893 and offers a prestigious 18-hole course with stunning ocean views. This private club occupies about 180 acres, featuring a links-style layout with open fairways, deep bunkers, and natural coastal winds that make for a challenging game. Newport Country Club has hosted several notable championships, including the inaugural U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur. The course combines historical significance with a demanding design, cementing its place as a top course among America’s oldest. Golfers here experience both the beauty of Newport’s coastline and the club’s rich heritage.

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club – Southampton, NY (1891)

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, founded in 1891 in Southampton, New York, is renowned worldwide for its challenging 18-hole layout. This private course spans around 300 acres, taking advantage of the area’s natural rolling hills and coastal breezes, which create a classic links-style golf experience. As one of the founding members of the USGA, Shinnecock Hills has hosted several U.S. Opens, adding to its historic status. Each hole is designed to test players with strategically placed bunkers and the unpredictable influence of the wind. This exclusive club maintains its position as a distinguished landmark in the world of golf.

Myopia Hunt Club – South Hamilton, MA (1894)

Myopia Hunt Club, founded in 1894, is a historic private course located in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. This 18-hole course stretches across approximately 160 acres of rolling countryside, offering players a traditional New England golfing experience. Known for its challenging design, the course features narrow fairways, thick roughs, and strategically placed bunkers. Myopia Hunt Club has hosted the U.S. Open multiple times, adding to its prestige and historical importance. Its classic layout requires precise play, making it a favorite among skilled golfers. Surrounded by wooded areas and undulating terrain, Myopia Hunt Club remains a timeless gem in American golf.

Philadelphia Country Club – Gladwyne, PA (1890)

Philadelphia Country Club, established in 1890 in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, is one of the country’s oldest private clubs. The club’s primary 18-hole course spans roughly 200 acres, with an additional 9-hole layout known as the Centennial Course. Designed to test all aspects of a golfer’s game, Philadelphia Country Club’s course features tree-lined fairways, well-placed bunkers, and fast greens. As a founding member of the USGA, it holds a special place in American golf history. The scenic layout and challenging design attract members and guests alike, preserving the club’s reputation as a historic yet demanding course.

Oakmont Country Club – Oakmont, PA (1903)

Oakmont Country Club, located in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1903 and has become one of the most iconic courses in the U.S. Known for its difficult 18-hole layout, Oakmont spans around 300 acres and is considered one of the toughest courses in America. It features deep bunkers, fast greens, and narrow fairways, demanding precision from players. Oakmont has hosted more U.S. Opens than any other course, establishing its place in golf history. The club’s private status and challenging design make it a revered destination for serious golfers. Its rich legacy continues to influence the sport, making it a must-play for enthusiasts.

Baltusrol Golf Club – Springfield, NJ (1895)

Founded in 1895, Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey, is home to two renowned 18-hole courses, the Lower and Upper courses, covering roughly 500 acres. This private club is known for its well-maintained fairways, challenging bunkers, and tree-lined layouts. The Lower Course has hosted major championships, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. Baltusrol’s classic design blends natural beauty with a competitive layout, creating a prestigious experience for players. Each hole presents unique challenges, enhancing the club’s reputation as a premier golf destination. Its historic charm and scenic location make it a standout among America’s oldest courses.

Onwentsia Club – Lake Forest, IL (1895)

Established in 1895, the Onwentsia Club in Lake Forest, Illinois, offers an 18-hole course set across approximately 170 acres of picturesque landscape. Known for its scenic fairways and classic design, Onwentsia’s course presents a blend of natural beauty and challenging holes. The layout includes gently rolling terrain, mature trees, and thoughtfully placed bunkers. Its private status adds to the club’s exclusivity and historic charm, drawing a loyal membership that values tradition. Onwentsia has maintained its reputation as one of Illinois’ finest golf courses for over a century, upholding its legacy as a historic golfing landmark.

Kebo Valley Golf Club – Bar Harbor, ME (1888)

Kebo Valley Golf Club, founded in 1888 in Bar Harbor, Maine, is one of the oldest public golf courses in the U.S. This 18-hole course covers about 150 acres of beautiful Maine landscape, featuring challenging holes surrounded by mountains and forests. Kebo Valley’s layout offers narrow fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and small greens, making it a favorite for players seeking both beauty and challenge. The course’s public status invites golfers of all levels to experience its storied fairways and unique design. Its scenic views and rich history make Kebo Valley an enduring destination for those passionate about golf.

Ekwanok Country Club – Manchester, VT (1899)

Established in 1899, Ekwanok Country Club in Manchester, Vermont, features a historic 18-hole course set across approximately 200 acres. This private club is known for its traditional layout, combining rolling hills, well-placed bunkers, and breathtaking views of Vermont’s countryside. Ekwanok’s course challenges players with its hilly terrain and carefully designed fairways, emphasizing accuracy and strategy. The club’s exclusive atmosphere and serene setting attract golfers who appreciate the sport’s history and Vermont’s natural beauty. Ekwanok continues to uphold its reputation as a prestigious course, blending classic design with a commitment to tradition and excellence in American golf.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.