By Anna Hughes

From the rugged coastlines of Pebble Beach to the manicured greens of Pinehurst Resort, the United States is home to a myriad of iconic golf courses that have become synonymous with the sport’s prestige and allure.

Spanning the country’s diverse landscapes, these renowned courses offer challenging layouts, rich histories, and breathtaking scenery.

We’re exploring the unforgettable experiences awaiting golf enthusiasts at some of the country’s most famous public courses, creating the perfect getaway with family or friends.

Bethpage State Park | Golf Course | Bethpage Black, NY | www.bethpagegolfcourse.com

Less than an hour outside of New York City, golf fans can experience one of the top public courses in the country in suburban Long Island. Bethpage features five 18-hole regulation golf courses, including the world-renowned Black Course, which will be the site of the Ryder Cup in September 2025. Bethpage Black is infamous to casual and professional golfers alike, and the course sports a warning sign recommending that only highly skilled golfers attempt to traverse. Three-time PGA major champion Jordan Spieth thinks the sign is an understatement and considers it one of the top five hardest courses he’s ever played. It’s a great chance to put your skills to the test while enjoying stunning views and a manicured landscape. Approximately 300,000 rounds of golf are played here annually, bringing both local New Yorkers and loyal travelers back to the green again and again.

Destination Kohler | Kohler, WI | www.destinationkohler.com

If you need a local getaway, look no further! A two-and-a-half-hour drive north will take you to Whistling Straits, the premier public course in the Midwest. A host to major tournaments, including three PGA championships, Whistling Straits is known for its “open, rugged and windswept terrain, sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.”

Destination Kohler, the site of four championship courses, including Whistling Straits, is known for combining world-class golf with superb service, extensive amenities, and top-tier relaxation.

Take your pick from their variety of lodging choices: choose a full-service resort for ultimate luxury, or opt for one of their private cabins for a romantic or family getaway in the Wisconsin wilderness. Check out their list of accommodation packages to ensure you have the best experience tailored to you.

TPC Scottsdale | Scottsdale, AZ | www.tpc.com/scottsdale

Tee up where Tiger hit his famous 1997 hole-in-one at TPC Scottsdale. Within the greater Phoenix area, there are a variety of public courses to choose from, along with some of the country’s most esteemed private ones.

TPC Scottsdale stands out among them as a chance to test your skills where all your favorite players have stood. See where you compare to Tiger’s ace when you approach the famous par-3 16th hole, known to be one of the most iconic holes on the PGA Tour. Home to the WM Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale provides two courses for play: the Stadium Course and the Champions Course.

With a variety of golf packages to choose from, TPC Scottsdale makes for a great trip for business or leisure. Just minutes from Scottsdale’s upscale dining and shopping scene, this year-round gold destination should definitely be at the top of your travel list.

Pinehurst Resort | Pinehurst, NC | www.pinehurst.com

Play like the pros at Pinehurst, the site of the 2024 U.S. Open. It’s the first time in over a century that the U.S. Golf Association has awarded four opens to a single site during the span of 25 years, which is a testament to the course’s beauty and rich history.

Play at one of ten 18-hole courses, the Thistle Dhu putting course or the famous short course known as “The Cradle.” In addition to world-renowned golf amenities, Pinehurst offers an extensive selection of fun and relaxation both on and off the course.

Visit the spa, take a horse-drawn carriage ride with the family, or cool off in one of the two pools on site before a delicious dinner. With a mix of international cuisine and local staples, every meal is served with a side of Southern hospitality.

Pebble Beach Resort | Pebble Beach, California I www.pebblebeach.com

Head across the country to the Pacific coast to play at Golf Digest’s top-ranked public golf course in America: Pebble Beach Golf Links. The stunning scenery, challenging course, and perfectly-kept grounds make this a six-time site of the U.S. Open. Most recently, it was the site of the Women’s Open in 2023, and the men’s tournament will return in 2027.

For over a century, Pebble Beach has been the stage for intense competition, career-changing putts, and loyal golf fans. Play at one of the resort’s six courses and perfect your swing with private lessons from experts on site. In addition to an unparalleled golf experience, bring the whole family for an
unforgettable stay at The Lodge at Pebble Beach. With delicious dining, relaxation, and a view of an iconic 18th
hole, this is a trip you won’t regret booking. ■