11 Best Golf Courses in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to the oldest continuously operating golf course in the United States and boasts one of the highest numbers of courses in the US. It has an incredible variety, ranging from fairways with mountain views to wooded greens just outside major cities. It is plain to see that the state’s passion for golf runs deep. Whether you're planning a weekend at a full-service resort or looking for a quiet, private club experience, the Keystone State has something for every golfer. These 11 courses showcase the very best of Pennsylvania's beauty, history, and unforgettable playing experiences.
Merion Golf Club - East Course
Merion East was built in 1912, and its tree-lined fairways and sculpted bunkers have hosted major championships for over a century. Rounds at this historic, Hugh Wilson-designed course are reserved for members and their guests. The revered clubhouse remains a testament to tradition, featuring storied trophies, upscale shops, and fine dining options. Lush conditions and mild weather persist from spring through early fall. The Club is less than a half hour's drive from Philadelphia International Airport, and many visitors finish their day on the course with a comfortable stay at one of the well-rated nearby hotels, such as The Radnor Hotel or Wayne Hotel.
Aronimink Golf Club
Located about 30 minutes from Philadelphia International Airport, Aronimink combines a classic 1920s framework with modern enhancements. This private par‑70 gem rewards strategic play through contoured greens and parkland vistas. While membership is invitation-only, guest access occasionally opens the doors to its contemporary clubhouse, terraced dining, and robust practice facilities. Late spring and fall offer the best conditions for golfing, when the trees are at their peak. Aronmink will host the upcoming 2026 PGA Championship, and spectators can find comfortable stays at the nearby Hilton Garden Inn Newtown Square Radnor.
Omni Bedford Springs Resort - Old Course
The Old Course dates back to 1895 and is about 100 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains. Its restored layout combines history with resort comfort, blending vintage bunkers with scenic water crossings. The course is especially stunning in early fall when crisp mountain air and changing leaves create a memorable setting for a classic round. Public tee times are booked through the resort's new clubhouse, which shares space with a well-equipped pro shop, spa, multiple dining spots, tennis courts, and pool. Visitors can stay on-site at the National Historic Landmark, Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa.
Nemacolin - Mystic Rock
Mystic Rock is about a 90-minute drive from Pittsburgh, nestled in the Laurel Highlands region of the Allegheny Mountains. It is known for dramatic elevation shifts and sweeping mountain views that frame every hole. As part of the Nemacolin Resort, it seamlessly blends rugged beauty with upscale amenities, featuring a clubhouse with high-end dining, a golf shop, a full-service spa, zip-lining, and wildlife excursions. The course is open May to October, and peak experiences come in spring and fall when the scenery is at its most vibrant. Guests can stay in the resort's lodges, such as the elegant Falling Rock, making golf just one part of a deluxe getaway.
Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
Roughly 45 minutes from Lehigh Valley International Airport in Allentown, this riverside course features an exceptionally beautiful layout set against the forested slopes of the Pocono Mountains. Designed in 1911 by A.W. Tillinghast, this was his first golf course, and it is the only one where 24 of 27 holes are located entirely on an island. Its lodge-style clubhouse overlooks the Delaware River, offering casual dining, a pro shop, and porch views. Public tee times are booked through the resort, with summer's warm weather being the sweet spot. The historic Shawnee Inn provides cozy rooms, light spa services, a craft brewery, and easy access to hiking, biking, and river sports.
Oakmont Country Club
Just northeast of Pittsburgh and a short ride from Pittsburgh International Airport, Oakmont is Henry Fownes’ sole course design, and has hosted more US Opens than any other American venue. Its historic layout offers extremely challenging bunkers and lightning-fast greens meticulously crafted for tournament play. Oakmont is a private course, so only members and their guests can access the grand clubhouse, pro shop, and refined dining facilities. Late spring and early fall are its finest seasons. Visitors can stay at the beautiful Oakmont Inn, conveniently located across from the course.
Skytop Lodge Golf Course
In the heart of the Poconos, Skytop's 1920s links wind through forested ridges with gorgeous views. This Robert W. White-designed course is open to the public, and its charming clubhouse serves hearty meals next to a well-stocked pro shop. Tee times are managed through the lodge, and summer brings the whole resort experience, including a spa, indoor pool, guided hikes, and evening entertainment. Guests can stay in the historic Skytop Lodge to experience a classic ambiance and enjoy old-world hospitality. Skytop is located about 45 minutes from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport and two hours from Philadelphia International Airport.
Toftrees Golf Resort
Toftrees offers a woodland layout by Edmund Ault that draws visitors from The Pennsylvania State University and the local community. Located just minutes from the regional University Park Airport, it features a relaxed clubhouse, practice facilities, and laid-back dining, welcoming the public from April to December. The most desirable times are during spring and fall, often coinciding with campus events and activities. The on-site lodging includes comfortable guest rooms and casual eateries, perfect for cheering on the Nittany Lions before or after you play. Boutique hotels in downtown State College offer charming alternatives for those seeking small-town charm.
Applebrook Golf Club
Applebrook's world-class golf course, maintained at the championship level, is nestled in the wooded hills of Chester County. Its Gil Hanse design features thoughtful bunkering and rolling fairways that appeal to golfers who prize strategy and scenery. The club is members-only, with guest access available upon request. The Applebrook Clubhouse offers refined dining, a comprehensive pro shop, and indoor and outdoor practice facilities. The best time to play is from May through October, when the foliage reaches its peak color. Visiting members or guests often find welcoming stays in the many nearby historic inns. Applebrook is a 30-minute drive from Philadelphia International Airport.
Laurel Valley Golf Club
Co-designed by Dick Wilson and later renovated by golf legend Arnold Palmer, Laurel Valley opened in 1959. The course quickly gained prominence by hosting events such as the 1965 PGA Championship and the 1975 Ryder Cup. The private 18-hole layout embraces sweeping fairways, sculpted bunkers, and panoramic mountain views of the rolling foothills south of Pittsburgh. Members and guests enjoy the use of an elegant clubhouse, pro shop, and a relaxed dining experience. Peak visits occur in late spring and early autumn. Laurel Valley is located 90 minutes from Pittsburgh International Airport.
Foxburg Country Club
Foxburg stands as America's oldest continuously operating course, dating back to 1887. This charming nine-hole, par-68 layout is carved into a riverside hillside and retains vintage tees and small greens, a throwback to the game's early days. Its rustic clubhouse houses the American Golf Hall of Fame, wooden lockers, and a welcoming pro shop. Guests are encouraged to book tee times in advance, as the best playing conditions are available from spring through early fall and fill up quickly. The Foxburg Inn Hotel, described as a boutique hotel situated on the Allegheny River, offers low-key yet nostalgic overnight options. Foxburg Country Club is about 90 minutes north of Pittsburgh International Airport.
Tee Up Your Trip
Whether you are looking for championship history, dramatic mountain landscapes, or peaceful riverside rounds, Pennsylvania delivers a memorable golf experience. From exclusive private clubs to welcoming public resorts, each course offers a distinct blend of scenery, challenge, and hospitality. With easy access from major airports and accommodations ranging from historic inns to luxury lodges, the Keystone State is a top-tier destination for golfers of every style and skill level.
