Best public golf courses in the New York, New York area

Welcome to the bustling greens amidst the urban jungle! New York, New York, a city renowned for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant energy, also offers a surprising escape for golf enthusiasts looking for a tee time without leaving the metro area. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the city and its surroundings provide a diverse array of public golf courses that cater to every skill level, from the casual duffer to the aspiring pro. So grab your clubs and get ready to explore some of the best spots to drive, chip, and putt your way through the Big Apple's unique golfing landscape.

Dyker Beach Golf Course DeRussy Drive, Brooklyn, New York Dyker Beach Golf Course offers a straightforward parkland style layout with scenic par 3's and views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The course features tree-lined fairways, over 30 sand bunkers, and greens with Bent/Poa grass, providing a picturesque and historic golf experience in Brooklyn. Friendly staff and ongoing upgrades, including new cart paths and bunkers, enhance the golfing experience.

Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course 115 Van Cortlandt Park South, Bronx, New York Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course, the oldest public golf course in the USA, offers a rich history with notable figures like Babe Ruth having played here. Located in the North Bronx, it's easily accessible and offers a par 70, 18-hole course with a variety of tee times and rates. Despite some mixed reviews on course conditions, the historical ambiance and scenic changes in elevation make it a unique golfing experience.

Galloping Hill Park and Golf Course 3 Golf Drive, Kenilworth, New Jersey

Marine Park Golf Course 2880 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, New York Marine Park Golf Course, an 18-hole Championship Course in southern Brooklyn, offers a public links-style experience designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Boasting panoramic water views, the course features country club quality greens and fairways, catering to all skill levels with four sets of tees. Known for its excellent condition and challenging layout, it provides a fun and challenging round for golfers, complemented by friendly staff and efficient service.

Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Courses 870 Shore Road, Bronx, New York

Hyatt Hills Golf Complex 1300 Raritan Road, Clark, New Jersey Hyatt Hills Golf Complex in Clark, New Jersey, offers a scenic 9-hole course with bentgrass tees, greens, and fairways, complemented by a 50-station driving range with heated pads for year-round play. The course provides a challenge for all skill levels, featuring real sand bunkers, water hazards, and a layout that demands strategic play. With amenities including a pro shop and practice areas, this public facility combines professional service with a country club feel.

Douglaston Golf Course 6320 Marathon Parkway, Douglaston, New York Douglaston Golf Course, located in Queens, New York, offers a well-maintained, 18-hole course featuring picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline. Known for its challenging yet entertaining layout, the course includes a variety of par 3, 4, and 5 holes, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Managed by Golf NYC, Douglaston provides a memorable golfing experience amid tree-lined, rolling hills.

Preakness Valley Golf Course 209 Totowa Road, Wayne, New Jersey Preakness Valley Golf Course in Wayne, New Jersey, offers two well-maintained eighteen-hole courses, a practice green, and a driving range, set in a cozy, tree-lined environment. The courses are known for their immaculate condition, from tee boxes to fairways and greens, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. Open year-round from dawn to dusk, the facility is a public golfing destination that emphasizes friendliness and quality service.

Skyway Golf Course 515 Duncan Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey This 9-hole golf course offers scenic views of Manhattan, well-kept greens and fairways, and a friendly atmosphere suitable for beginners and seasoned players alike. Amenities include a putting green, a pro shop, and a bar, though there is no driving range. The course is praised for being well-maintained and offering public tournaments, making it a recommended spot for golfers in or near the city.

Dunwoodie Golf Course 1 Wasylenko Lane, Yonkers, New York Dunwoodie Golf Course in Yonkers, New York, offers a picturesque and challenging 18-hole experience with well-maintained fairways and greens set amidst dramatic topography and steep slopes. The facility includes a pro shop, driving range, and clubhouse restaurant, catering to both beginners and experienced golfers. Its convenient location and the scenic view of Manhattan from the 18th hole make it a popular choice for local golfers.

Forest Park Golf Course 101 Forest Park Drive, Woodhaven, New York Forest Park Golf Course, nestled in Woodhaven, Queens, is a historical 18-hole course designed by Tom Bendelow and redesigned by Stephen Kay, offering a par of 70 across 6,053 yards. Known for its leafy surroundings with elevated greens and water hazards, the course provides a blend of scenic beauty and challenge. With a friendly staff and a new clubhouse, it caters to both experienced and novice golfers, making it a valued venue for golf in New York City.

Weequahic Golf Course 1 Thomas Carmichael Drive, Newark, New Jersey