Affordable Public Golf Courses in New York - Best Budget-Friendly Destinations
From easy walk-ups near NYC to scenic upstate layouts, explore top budget-friendly courses with details on prices, features, and where to play. Photo by: Unsplash
New York might be famous for fancy private golf clubs and pricey fees, but that's not the whole story.
All over the state, you can find public courses that are still easy on your wallet, easy to get to, and in good shape. They give regular golfers a great deal.
This guide is all about those affordable public golf courses in New York. We looked at the cost, how good the course is, how easy it is to get to, and what it's like playing there overall.
Whether you're close to New York City, on Long Island, or up north, these courses prove you don't have to spend a ton to have a good time golfing.
What “Affordable” Means for Public Golf in New York
Golf costs in New York change a lot based on where you are and the time of year. In this guide, we call a course affordable if it always meets these standards:
Criteria | Definition |
|---|---|
Green Fees | Typically $25-$75 on weekdays |
Access | Fully public, no membership required |
Quality | Reliable maintenance and playable conditions |
Discounts | Twilight, resident, or seasonal rates available |
Even though prices go up on weekends and during busy times, the courses here are a good deal all year.
Affordable Public Golf Courses Near New York City
NYC golfers have access to many affordable and convenient city and state-run courses.
Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course
Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course, among the oldest public courses in the U.S., is still popular with New York City golfers.
It's a classic parkland style, featuring tree-lined fairways and gentle elevation changes. It's not the hardest course, but offers a fun and fair game for golfers of all levels.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Typical Weekday Fee | $35-$55 |
Location | Bronx, NYC |
Style | Municipal parkland |
Best For | Budget rounds, beginners, casual play |
Aqueduct Golf Courses
The Aqueduct Golf Courses in Queens has three nine-hole courses. You can mix and match them to create different length games, which is great if you want to play a fast round or squeeze in some golf after work.
These courses aren't as long as championship ones, but they're perfect if you're just starting out or want some low-cost practice.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Typical Weekday Fee | $40-$70 |
Location | Queens, NYC |
Course Type | Three 9-hole courses |
Best For | Short rounds, beginners |
Affordable Public Golf Courses on Long Island
Long Island has awesome public golf, especially if you look beyond the super famous Black Course.
Bethpage State Park
(Red, Blue, and Green Courses)
Bethpage State Park has a bunch of public golf courses that are kept in great shape, like a course for a tournament, but don't cost a fortune to play. Everyone knows Bethpage Black, but the Red, Blue, and Green courses are easier to get on and won't break the bank.
Course | Typical Weekday Fee | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
Red Course | $55-$75 | Intermediate |
Blue Course | $60-$80 | Intermediate |
Green Course | $45-$65 | Beginner-friendly |
These courses offer well-kept grounds, generous fairways, and are a great deal, especially when you consider private clubs on Long Island.
Wölffer Estate Golf Club
Wölffer Estate Golf Club gives you a special Hamptons experience with its vineyards and pretty hills. Even though it's fancy, the course is still affordable for anyone to play.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Typical Weekday Fee | $55-$70 |
Location | Sagaponack, NY |
Environment | Vineyard and coastal |
Best For | Scenic rounds, relaxed play |
Affordable Public Golf Courses in Upstate New York
If you're a golfer looking for a good deal and nice views, Upstate New York is a great place to go. You'll find it's especially true if you don't mind driving a bit.
Ellwanger Estate Golf Club
Ellwanger Estate Golf Club in Rochester is a city-owned course that's kept in good shape. It gives you classic parkland-style golf without costing too much.
The course design focuses on hitting accurate shots and planning your way around the course, instead of just hitting the ball far. So, it’s a good fit for all kinds of golfers.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Typical Weekday Fee | $35-$55 |
Location | Rochester, NY |
Style | Parkland |
Best For | Value-focused golfers |
Turning Stone Resort
(Shenendoah Course)
At Turning Stone's Shenendoah Course, you can enjoy great golf, like at a fancy resort, but the prices are better, mainly if you go during the week or when it's not as busy.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
Typical Weekday Fee | $50-$75 |
Location | Verona, NY |
Course Type | Resort public |
Best For | Golf trips on a budget |
More Budget-Friendly Public Courses Across New York
Course | Region | Typical Fee |
|---|---|---|
Selkirk Shores State Park GC | Pulaski | $30-$50 |
Lockport Town Park GC | Lockport | $25-$45 |
Midvale GC | Syracuse Area | $40-$60 |
Maple Hill GC | Fairport | $40-$65 |
These courses are usually less crowded and have nice scenery, so you can relax and get good value for your money.
How to Save Money on Public Golf in New York
To play without spending too much, time your moves and plan ahead.
Strategy | Savings Potential |
|---|---|
Twilight tee times | 30-50% |
Weekday play | Lower base rates |
Resident discounts | Varies by course |
Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) | Moderate |
You'll usually find the best deals on tee times in the afternoons or during the week.
Best Time of Year for Affordable Golf
Season | Cost Level | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
Spring | Lower | Cool, firm |
Summer | Highest | Peak quality |
Fall | Moderate | Best overall |
Winter | Lowest | Limited access |
September and October are usually the sweet spot for golf you get good prices, nice weather, and the courses are in great shape.
Final Thoughts
You might be surprised how easy it is to find affordable public golf in New York. From city courses to upstate views, the state has some great deals if you know when and where to look.
Time your tee times right and pick the right course, and you can play regularly without spending a lot.