As an avid golfer, I have had the privilege of exploring numerous golf courses across Connecticut. This beautiful New England state boasts a rich golfing heritage and is home to some remarkable courses that cater to golfers of all skill levels. In this guide, I will share my personal insights into the best golf courses in Connecticut, drawing from my extensive experience playing the game in this picturesque region.
1. The Course at Yale University
One of Connecticut’s hidden gems, The Course at Yale University offers a truly unique golfing experience. Designed by renowned architect Charles Blair Macdonald, this course features undulating terrain, deep bunkers, and strategically placed hazards. My rounds at Yale have always been memorable, as I navigated its challenging layout while soaking in the stunning vistas of the university campus.
2. TPC River Highlands
Having played at TPC River Highlands, I can confidently say that this course is a must-visit for any golfer. Located in Cromwell, it hosts the annual Travelers Championship, a PGA Tour event. The immaculate conditions and world-class facilities make it an exceptional place to test your skills. My rounds here have provided me with a taste of the professional experience.
3. The Stanwich Club
The Stanwich Club in Greenwich is another personal favorite of mine. As a private club, it exudes exclusivity and tranquility. This course offers a challenging yet rewarding layout with lush fairways and pristine greens. My rounds at Stanwich have always left me impressed with the club’s commitment to maintaining top-notch conditions.
4. Great River Golf Club
For a more accessible and public-friendly golfing experience, I often visit the Great River Golf Club in Milford. The course is known for its well-manicured fairways and scenic views of the Housatonic River. My time at Great River has been filled with enjoyable rounds, making it an excellent choice for golfers of all skill levels.
5. The Course at Mohegan Sun
As a golfer who enjoys a touch of luxury, I can’t overlook The Course at Mohegan Sun. Nestled in the picturesque Mohegan Sun resort, this course combines challenging holes with breathtaking scenery. I’ve had the pleasure of teeing off here and was impressed by the impeccable service and amenities that complement the golfing experience.
6. Wintonbury Hills Golf Course
Wintonbury Hills Golf Course, located in Bloomfield, is a municipal course that consistently earns praise from local and visiting golfers. I have enjoyed several rounds at this course, and it never fails to impress. Designed by Pete Dye, it offers a fair challenge with its rolling terrain and well-placed hazards. The course’s natural beauty, including scenic views of the Hartford skyline, adds to the overall experience.
7. Lake of Isles Golf Course
Lake of Isles, part of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, is a golfing oasis in the Connecticut countryside. As someone who appreciates a course that combines a sense of serenity with golfing excellence, Lake of Isles has been a go-to choice for me. The North and South courses provide a harmonious blend of lush fairways, water features, and challenging holes, making it a golfing haven.
8. Keney Park Golf Course
Keney Park Golf Course in Hartford is steeped in history and offers an affordable and accessible golfing experience. Over the years, I’ve found it to be an excellent option for a casual round with friends or family. The course’s recent restoration has brought it back to its former glory, and it’s a testament to Connecticut’s commitment to preserving its golfing heritage.
9. Pequot Golf Club
Pequot Golf Club in Stonington is a hidden gem along the Connecticut shoreline. My rounds at this course have been a delightful mix of golf and ocean views. With its links-style layout and proximity to the water, it provides a unique golfing experience that few courses in the state can match.
10. New Haven Country Club
My golfing journey across Connecticut wouldn’t be complete without mentioning New Haven Country Club. This private club has a rich history and a classic design that has stood the test of time. Playing here, I’ve been able to appreciate the traditional elements of golf while enjoying a sense of camaraderie with fellow members.
11. Shennecossett Golf Course
Shennecossett Golf Course in Groton offers a seaside golfing experience that has always left me in awe. Playing here provides a unique opportunity to enjoy a round while soaking in views of the Long Island Sound. The course layout is challenging but fair, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
12. Rolling Meadows Country Club
Situated in Ellington, Rolling Meadows Country Club offers a peaceful and picturesque golfing environment. I’ve appreciated the well-maintained fairways and greens here, as well as the club’s commitment to providing an enjoyable golfing experience for members and guests.
13. Lyman Orchards Golf Club
Lyman Orchards Golf Club in Middlefield is a delightful place to play golf in Connecticut. This course boasts two 18-hole layouts: the Robert Trent Jones Course and the Gary Player Course. My experiences here have been marked by lush fairways, scenic orchards, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
14. Quarry Ridge Golf Course
For golfers seeking a challenging and scenic course, Quarry Ridge Golf Course in Portland is a fantastic choice. My rounds at Quarry Ridge have always involved navigating the unique layout, which features dramatic elevation changes and stunning views of the Connecticut River Valley.
15. Race Brook Country Club
Race Brook Country Club in Orange offers a private club experience with a strong sense of tradition. Playing here has allowed me to appreciate the rich history of golf in Connecticut while enjoying a well-designed course that challenges golfers of all skill levels.
Best Golf Courses in Connecticut Part -1
Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Yale Golf Course | New Haven | 70 | 6,749 | Charles Blair Macdonald |
TPC River Highlands | Cromwell | 70 | 6,841 | Bobby Weed |
Lake of Isles | North Stonington | 72 | 7,300 | Rees Jones |
The Country Club of Fairfield | Fairfield | 72 | 6,955 | Seth Raynor |
Great River Golf Club | Milford | 72 | 6,646 | Tom Fazio |
Part – 2
Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shennecossett Golf Course | Groton | 71 | 6,543 | Donald Ross |
Wintonbury Hills Golf Course | Bloomfield | 70 | 6,711 | Pete Dye |
Country Club of Darien | Darien | 71 | 6,569 | Willie Park Jr. |
Gillette Ridge Golf Club | Bloomfield | 72 | 6,850 | Arnold Palmer |
Wee Burn Country Club | Darien | 71 | 6,601 | Devereux Emmet |
Part – 3
Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Richter Park Golf Course | Danbury | 72 | 6,740 | Edward Ryder |
Lyman Orchards Golf Club | Middlefield | 71 | 6,600 | Robert Trent Jones |
Race Brook Country Club | Orange | 70 | 6,545 | Willie Park Jr. |
New Haven Country Club | Hamden | 70 | 6,367 | A. W. Tillinghast |
Connecticut Golf Club | Easton | 72 | 6,641 | Geoffrey Cornish |
Part – 4
Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pequot Golf Club | Stonington | 70 | 6,545 | Willie Park Jr. |
Hartford Golf Club | West Hartford | 70 | 6,427 | A.W. Tillinghast |
The Course at Yale | New Haven | 70 | 6,749 | Robert Trent Jones |
Rolling Hills Country Club | Wilton | 71 | 6,588 | Alfred H. Tull |
Shuttle Meadow Country Club | Kensington | 71 | 6,431 | Willie Park Jr. |
Part – 5
Course Name | Location | Par | Yardage | Designer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Race Brook Country Club | Orange | 70 | 6,545 | Willie Park Jr. |
The Golf Club at Oxford Greens | Oxford | 72 | 7,161 | Steve Forrest |
Timberlin Golf Club | Berlin | 72 | 6,733 | Geoffrey Cornish |
Silver Spring Country Club | Ridgefield | 70 | 6,335 | Hal Purdy |
H. Smith Richardson Golf Course | Fairfield | 72 | 6,588 | Robert McNeil |
Conclusion
In my extensive experience exploring the golf courses of Connecticut, these additional five courses add to the state’s impressive golfing landscape. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal beauty of Shennecossett, the tranquility of Rolling Meadows, or the diverse options at Lyman Orchards, Connecticut’s golf courses offer something for everyone. As you plan your golfing adventures in the Constitution State, these courses should be on your list to explore and enjoy.