The Mid-Atlantic states of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware have some of the oldest and most celebrated golf in America, much of it at private clubs. But there is also excellent public golf, from state parks and municipal courses to resorts in the mountains and on the coast. With a season from spring to late autumn and easy access from major cities, the region is a rewarding place to play.
The main areas
New York
- Long Island: sandy, links-influenced and parkland courses, including some well-regarded public courses in state parks, where tee times are in high demand.
- Hudson Valley: rolling hills, river views and autumn colour within reach of New York City.
- Upstate New York: the Finger Lakes, the Adirondacks and towns around Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo offer good-value summer golf.
New Jersey
New Jersey has many historic private clubs, along with public courses and resort golf near the shore and in the sandy Pine Barrens.
Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia area: a deep golf heritage, with many classic courses and plenty of public options.
- The Poconos: mountain resorts with golf, lakes and autumn colour.
- Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania: hilly courses and good value.
Maryland and Delaware
The Chesapeake Bay, Ocean City and the Delaware beaches offer coastal golf combined with seaside holidays.
When to go
| Months | Conditions |
|---|---|
| April to May | Courses greening up; cool mornings |
| June to August | Warm and humid; busy weekends |
| September to October | Often the best months, with autumn colour |
| November to March | Many courses close or play in winter conditions |
Access to private clubs
Many famous courses in the region are private and require an invitation from a member. Some host charity events or allow reciprocal play through other clubs. Focus on the many excellent public and resort courses if you don't have a connection. Read how golf clubs are run and playing as a guest at a private club.
Playing tips
- Classic designs: small, sloping greens and strategic bunkering. Read how to read greens.
- Tree-lined parkland: keep the ball in play. Read golf course management.
- Hilly terrain in Pennsylvania and upstate New York. Read how to play uneven lies.
Costs and booking
- Public courses near New York City and Philadelphia can be busy; book as soon as times are released. Read how to book tee times.
- Resident rates at some municipal and state-park courses are lower than visitor rates.
- Resorts in the Poconos and upstate offer packages.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play golf near New York City?
Yes. There are many public courses on Long Island, in the outer boroughs and in the Hudson Valley, though tee times can be competitive.
When is the golf season in the Mid-Atlantic?
Roughly April to November, with autumn often the best time.
Can visitors play the famous private clubs?
Usually only with a member. Focus on the many good public and resort courses.
Is the Poconos good for golf?
Yes, with mountain resort courses and autumn colour.
The bottom line
The Mid-Atlantic combines golf heritage with plenty of accessible public and resort golf. Play from spring to autumn, book public tee times early, and explore Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Philadelphia, the Poconos and the coast. For more northeastern golf, read golf in New England and golf in Virginia.