Looking for the best public golf courses in Rhode Island? You’re in luck! Rhode Island boasts a diverse range of golf courses, offering stunning views and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. With over 60 courses spread across just over a thousand square miles, Rhode Island has a surprisingly large golf presence. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the Ocean State, there are plenty of options for golfing enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways:
- Rhode Island has a wide selection of public golf courses to choose from.
- These courses offer breathtaking views and challenging play.
- Golfers of all skill levels can find a course that suits their needs.
- With over 60 courses available, there is something for everyone.
- Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Rhode Island offers a great golfing experience.
Private Golf Clubs with Historical Significance
Rhode Island is home to several private golf clubs with rich historical significance. These clubs not only offer exceptional golfing experiences but also carry a legacy that spans decades. One notable club is the Newport Country Club, which played a pivotal role in the establishment of golf in the United States. Co-founding the U.S. Golf Association in 1893, Newport Country Club hosted the first U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur in 1895, cementing its place in golfing history.
Ranked No. 48 on Golfweek’s Best list for Classic Courses built before 1960, Newport Country Club continues to attract golfers with its storied past and challenging layout. It has witnessed remarkable moments, including Tiger Woods’ victory in the U.S. Amateur in 1995, showcasing the club’s significance in shaping golfing legends.
Other private golf clubs in Rhode Island also offer exceptional experiences. The Wannamoisett, Shelter Harbor, Misquamicut, and Rhode Island Country Club are renowned for their well-manicured courses and timeless charm, making them a haven for golf enthusiasts seeking a glimpse into golfing history.
| Private Golf Clubs with Historical Significance in Rhode Island | Location | Year Established |
|---|---|---|
| Newport Country Club | Newport | 1893 |
| Wannamoisett Country Club | Rumford | 1898 |
| Shelter Harbor Golf Club | Charlestown | 1904 |
| Misquamicut Club | Watch Hill | 1923 |
| Rhode Island Country Club | Barrington | 1911 |
Rhode Island’s private golf clubs not only offer exceptional golfing experiences but also carry a legacy that spans decades.
Top-Ranked Public-Access Courses
When it comes to playing golf in Rhode Island, there are several top-ranked public-access courses that offer an exceptional experience. These courses are not only known for their challenging layouts but also for their stunning views and impeccable conditions. If you’re looking to play golf in Rhode Island, these courses should be at the top of your list.
Panoramic Views at Newport National’s Orchard Course
The Newport National’s Orchard Course, designed by Arthur Hills and opened in 2002, is the top-ranked public-access course in Rhode Island. This course offers a links-style layout that takes full advantage of its picturesque surroundings. With panoramic views of the Atlantic and Sakonnet River Passage, playing a round at Newport National is a truly unforgettable experience.
Table: Top-Ranked Public-Access Courses in Rhode Island
| Course | Location | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Newport National’s Orchard Course | Middletown | 1 |
| Triggs Memorial Golf Course | Providence | 2 |
| Meadow Brook Golf Club | Richmond | 3 |
| North Kingstown Golf Course | North Kingstown | 4 |
| Exeter Country Club | Exeter | 5 |
Exceptional Golfing Experiences at Notable Courses
Aside from Newport National, there are other notable public-access courses in Rhode Island that are worth playing. Triggs Memorial Golf Course in Providence offers a challenging layout with well-manicured fairways and greens. Meadow Brook Golf Club in Richmond boasts a scenic setting with rolling hills and beautiful natural features. North Kingstown Golf Course provides a more relaxed golfing experience with its shorter layout and picturesque views. And lastly, Exeter Country Club offers a challenging course that tests golfers of all skill levels.
Playing at any of these top-ranked public-access courses in Rhode Island guarantees a memorable round of golf. From breathtaking views to well-designed layouts, these courses provide an exceptional experience for golfers of all levels. So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these public-access courses and enjoy a round of golf in the beautiful state of Rhode Island.
Golf Courses in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
When it comes to golfing in New England, Rhode Island and Massachusetts offer a wide selection of courses for enthusiasts of all skill levels. With over 400 golf facilities combined, these states boast a rich golfing history and a diverse range of course designs. Whether you’re looking to tee off near the ocean or play on a picturesque parkland course, there’s something for everyone in this region.
In Rhode Island and Massachusetts, approximately 75% of the golf courses are open to public play, making it accessible for golfers to enjoy the beauty and challenges these courses have to offer. From the rolling fairways of Donald Ross-designed layouts to the strategic bunkering of A.W. Tillinghast tracks, the golf courses in this region showcase the work of renowned architects who have crafted memorable and distinct golf experiences.
From Rhode Island’s scenic coastal gems to Massachusetts’ historic and championship layouts, golfing in Southern New England provides an unforgettable experience. So pack your clubs, hit the greens, and immerse yourself in the beauty of golf courses in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Table: Featured Golf Courses in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
| Golf Course | Location | Design | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newport National Golf Club | Middletown, RI | Arthur Hills | 1st in Rhode Island (Golfweek) |
| Granite Links Golf Club | Quincy, MA | John Sanford | 1st in Massachusetts (Golf Digest) |
| Shelter Harbor Golf Club | Charlestown, RI | Michael Hurdzan/Dana Fry | 2nd in Rhode Island (Golf Digest) |
| Cranberry Valley Golf Course | Harwich, MA | Geoffrey Cornish/Bill Robinson | 2nd in Massachusetts (Golfweek) |
Note: Rankings are subject to change and are based on various golf publications.
Recommended Public Golf Courses in Rhode Island
If you’re a golf enthusiast looking for the best public golf courses in Rhode Island, you’re in for a treat. The Ocean State is home to some exceptional courses that offer beautiful landscapes, challenging layouts, and an unforgettable golfing experience. Whether you’re in Middletown, Richmond, Portsmouth, or Exeter, here are a few highly recommended golf courses that should be on your radar:
Newport National, Middletown
Nestled in the picturesque town of Middletown, Newport National offers a golfing experience like no other. This stunning public course, designed by Arthur Hills, combines challenging fairways and breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic and Sakonnet River Passage. With its links-style layout, rolling dunes, and impeccable conditions, Newport National is a must-play for golfers of all skill levels.
Meadowbrook Golf Course, Richmond
Located in Richmond, Meadowbrook Golf Course is a hidden gem that offers a unique and enjoyable golfing experience. This well-maintained public course features rolling fairways, challenging greens, and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, Meadowbrook provides a tranquil setting to perfect your swing and enjoy a day on the course.
Montaup Country Club, Portsmouth
Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth is another top-rated public golf course in Rhode Island. This beautifully designed course offers a mix of challenging holes, strategic water hazards, and stunning views of the Narragansett Bay. With its well-manicured fairways and friendly atmosphere, Montaup provides a memorable golfing experience for players of all levels.
Exeter Country Club, Exeter
For a classic New England golf experience, look no further than Exeter Country Club. Situated in the scenic town of Exeter, this public course boasts a rich history dating back to 1902. With its tree-lined fairways, challenging layout, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, Exeter Country Club is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
When it comes to public golf courses in Rhode Island, these recommendations offer a mix of stunning landscapes, challenging play, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, these courses are sure to provide a memorable round of golf.
Recommended Public Golf Courses in Massachusetts
When it comes to public golf courses, Massachusetts offers a wide array of options that cater to every golfer’s preferences. Whether you’re seeking picturesque coastal views or challenging fairways nestled in the heart of nature, there’s a course for you. Here are some highly recommended public golf courses in different parts of Massachusetts:
Nantucket: Miacomet Golf Club
If you find yourself on Nantucket Island, be sure to visit Miacomet Golf Club. This stunning course combines the island’s natural beauty with a challenging layout that will test your skills. With its meticulously maintained fairways and breathtaking ocean views, Miacomet Golf Club provides a memorable golfing experience.
Quincy: Granite Links Golf Course
Granite Links Golf Course in Quincy offers panoramic views of the Boston skyline and the harbor, creating a unique and memorable backdrop for your round of golf. Designed by John Sanford, this course is known for its challenging layout and impeccable conditions, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Harwich: Cranberry Valley Golf Club
Nestled in the scenic town of Harwich on Cape Cod, Cranberry Valley Golf Club is a hidden gem. With its tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and meticulously manicured greens, this course offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
Bernardston: Crumpin Fox
If you’re in western Massachusetts, make sure to check out Crumpin Fox in Bernardston. This championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is known for its picturesque vistas, strategic bunkering, and challenging layout. Crumpin Fox offers a golfing experience that combines natural beauty with a test of skill.
Southwick: The Ranch Golf Club
For a truly unique golfing experience, head to The Ranch Golf Club in Southwick. This course is situated on lush farmland, offering a picturesque setting that blends seamlessly with the challenging layout. With its rolling fairways, undulating greens, and stunning views, The Ranch Golf Club is a must-play course in western Massachusetts.
Each of these public golf courses in Massachusetts offers its own distinct charm and challenges, ensuring a memorable experience for golfers of all levels. From the coastal beauty of Miacomet Golf Club to the stunning skyline views of Granite Links Golf Course, there’s something for everyone in the Bay State.
Conclusion
Rhode Island and Massachusetts offer an abundance of top-notch public golf courses, making them a golfer’s paradise in New England. From historic private clubs to stunning public-access courses, these states cater to golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to play on a renowned course with historical significance or experience breathtaking views while teeing off, there is no shortage of exceptional golfing options.
When it comes to the best public golf courses, Rhode Island and Massachusetts have got you covered. From the iconic Newport Country Club, co-founder of the U.S. Golf Association, to the exquisite Newport National’s Orchard Course, these courses provide unforgettable experiences. With their picturesque landscapes and well-designed layouts, these golf courses are sure to leave you wanting more.
With over 400 golf facilities combined, Rhode Island and Massachusetts boast a rich golf history. From seaside links to parkland designs, the varied landscapes offer unique challenges and opportunities to improve your game. Whether you’re exploring the coastal gems in Rhode Island or venturing into the heart of Massachusetts, you’ll find a golf course that suits your preferences.
So, pack your clubs and get ready for an unforgettable golfing adventure in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Discover the best public golf courses in these states and experience the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and exceptional golfing.
FAQ
What are the best public golf courses in Rhode Island?
Some of the best public golf courses in Rhode Island include Newport National in Middletown, Meadowbrook in Richmond, Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth, Exeter Country Club in Exeter, and Triggs Memorial Golf Course in Providence.
Are there any private golf clubs with historical significance in Rhode Island?
Yes, Newport Country Club is one of the most significant golf clubs in Rhode Island. It co-founded the U.S. Golf Association in 1893 and hosted the first U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur in 1895. Other private clubs with historical significance include Wannamoisett, Shelter Harbor, Misquamicut, and Rhode Island Country Club.
Which are the top-ranked public-access golf courses in Rhode Island?
Newport National’s Orchard Course, designed by Arthur Hills and opened in 2002, takes the top spot on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play list for Rhode Island. Other notable public-access courses include Triggs Memorial, Meadow Brook, North Kingstown Golf Course, and Exeter Country Club.
How many golf courses are there in Rhode Island and Massachusetts?
Rhode Island and Massachusetts together boast over 400 golf facilities.
Can you recommend any public golf courses in Rhode Island?
Some highly recommended public golf courses in Rhode Island include Newport National in Middletown, Meadowbrook in Richmond, Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth, Exeter Country Club in Exeter, and Triggs Memorial Golf Course in Providence.
Are there any recommended public golf courses in Massachusetts?
Yes, some notable recommendations for public golf courses in Massachusetts include Miacomet Golf Club in Nantucket, Granite Links Golf Course in Quincy, Cranberry Valley Golf Club in Harwich, Crumpin Fox in Bernardston, and The Ranch Golf Club in Southwick.
Where can I find the best public golf courses in Rhode Island and Massachusetts?
Rhode Island and Massachusetts are home to some of the best public golf courses in the country. Whether you’re looking for renowned private clubs or memorable public-access courses, these states offer a range of options.