The sun is casting gold over the dew-kissed fairways, your driver feels like an extension of your arm, and you’re standing on the first tee of a course that’s more than just a collection of holes, it’s a journey. New York, with its mix of rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and rolling countryside, is home to some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring golf resorts in the country. But this isn’t just a list of places to play, it’s an invitation to experience golf as adventure, relaxation, and even a little bit of indulgence.
Now, let’s hit the road and explore six unforgettable golf resorts in New York that exude perfection
Villa Roma Resort – Every Shot Comes with a View
The Catskills are known for their natural beauty, but Villa Roma Resort takes it up a notch with a golf course that feels like it was designed to be both challenging and relaxing at the same time. Here, fairways roll through the hills, framed by the kind of scenery that makes you pause mid-round just to take it all in. The 18-hole course is a par-71 that’s equal parts precision and patience, with narrow approaches and water hazards that keep you honest. Beginners will find it approachable, while seasoned players will relish the strategy required on some of the tighter holes.
What makes Villa Roma stand out is its atmosphere. It’s not pretentious or overly serious; it’s the kind of place where you can play a competitive round in the morning and then kick back at the resort’s pool or enjoy a hearty Italian dinner in the evening. Whether you’re there with friends or family, the vibe is as warm as the Catskill sunset, easily making it one of the Best Golf Resort in New York.
Mohonk Mountain House – Golf with a Side of Magic
Mohonk Mountain House doesn’t feel like a resort; it feels like stepping into another world. This Victorian-style castle sits atop a ridge overlooking the Hudson Valley, and its 9-hole golf course is just as unique. The course is short, yes, but it’s also wonderfully quirky, with greens that demand precision and fairways that test your creativity. It’s the kind of course where you can experiment with shots and still keep the game light.
But the real magic of Mohonk is beyond the scorecard. After your round, you can hike trails that lead to jaw-dropping views, paddle across a crystal-clear lake, or just relax in the historic lodge with a good book. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and savor every moment, whether you’re hitting a wedge shot or sipping tea on the porch.
Turning Stone Resort – Where Golf Becomes an Event
Turning Stone Resort doesn’t just have golf, it has a golf kingdom. Spread across three championship courses (plus two more casual options), this destination in Verona, NY, is where serious players come to test their mettle. Atunyote, the flagship course, has hosted the P.G.A Tour, and it’s easy to see why. It’s pristine, with wide fairways that seem to stretch forever and greens that roll like glass. Kaluhyat is a strategic challenge, demanding precise shot placement, while Shenendoah offers a more classic parkland-style experience.
This is a resort where golf takes center stage, but the amenities are just as impressive. Fancy a post-round massage or a night at the casino? Done. Want to dine at a restaurant that’s as refined as your short game (or maybe better)? Turning Stone has you covered. It’s the kind of place where every detail feels polished, and every visit feels like an occasion.
The Sagamore Resort – Elegance on the Edge of Lake George
If you’re looking for a golf getaway that combines timeless charm with modern luxury, The Sagamore Resort on Lake George should be at the top of your list. Its Donald Ross-designed golf course is a masterpiece of classic design, with rolling fairways, sloping greens, and plenty of opportunities to test your creativity. It’s a course that rewards skill but never feels punishing, making it perfect for players of all abilities.
But let’s not pretend it’s just about the golf. The Sagamore is an experience in itself. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by understated elegance—think Adirondack chairs overlooking the lake, gourmet dining with local flair, and a general sense that life doesn’t get much better than this. And after a long day on the course, that feeling of sipping a drink on the terrace as the sun sets over the water? Unmatched.
Leatherstocking Golf Course at The Otesaga Resort – Lakeside Perfection
Cooperstown might be famous for baseball, but Leatherstocking Golf Course is a home run in its own right. Perched on the edge of Otsego Lake, this course is a visual feast, with rolling fairways that hug the water and greens that seem to float on the horizon. Designed by Devereux Emmet, it’s a classic layout with modern play-ability, offering a mix of challenges that’ll keep even the most seasoned golfers on their toes.
What makes Leatherstocking special is how it seamlessly blends into its surroundings. This isn’t a course that was built on the land; it feels like it grew out of it. And when you’re done playing, The Otesaga Resort offers a level of hospitality that’s as refined as the course itself. From lakeside dining to cozy, historic rooms, it’s the kind of place where you don’t just stay, you immerse yourself.
Bethpage Black – The Golfer’s Bucket List
Bethpage Black is the stuff of legend. This Long Island course doesn’t just demand respect, it commands it. From the moment you see the iconic warning sign at the first tee (The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers), you know you’re in for something special. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, this course has hosted the U.S. Open, the P.G.A Championship, and countless dreams of amateur golfers who want to test themselves against one of the toughest layouts in the world. hellos
The fairways are narrow, the bunkers are deep, and the greens are fast enough to make you question everything you thought you knew about putting. But for all its difficulty, Bethpage Black is also incredibly rewarding. It’s not just a round of golf, it’s a badge of honor. And when you finish, there’s no better feeling than sharing stories and laughs with fellow golfers who understand exactly what you’ve just been through.
The Final Drive
Golf isn’t just a game, it’s an adventure, a challenge, and sometimes even a little bit of therapy. And in New York, the experience goes far beyond the scorecard. These six resorts offer a mix of challenge, beauty, and hospitality that makes every round unforgettable. So whether you’re chasing a personal best or just looking for a place to unwind, pack your clubs and hit the road. The perfect fairway is waiting, and the only thing missing is you.
