Pittsburgh, known for its rich sports culture, is not only home to professional football, baseball, and hockey teams, but also boasts a variety of golf courses catering to all skill levels and budgets. In this article, we explore five affordable golf courses in the Pittsburgh area, perfect for those looking to enjoy a round without breaking the bank. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the challenging layouts near the city, these courses offer great value and enjoyable experiences for golf enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways
- Mars-Bethel Golf Course offers a public golfing experience with a high satisfaction rating among players.
- Butler Country Club, while private, has received top reviews and might offer guest or trial opportunities for non-members.
- Suncrest Golf Course is recognized for its excellent course conditions and has received high ratings from the golfing community.
- LakeVue North Golf Course provides a scenic and enjoyable golfing experience at a public facility.
- Fort Cherry Golf Club is a public/resort course known for its well-maintained greens and fairways, suitable for all levels of golfers.
1. Mars-Bethel Golf Course
The Mars-Bethel Golf Course offers an exceptional golfing experience at an affordable price. Nestled in Mars, Pennsylvania, this public course is known for its well-maintained greens and friendly atmosphere. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from golfers, it’s a must-visit for enthusiasts looking for a great round without breaking the bank.
Mars-Bethel is not just about golf; it’s about building a community around the sport. The course encourages walking, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the serene environment.
Here are some key details about the course:
- Year Built: 1960
- Golf Season: Year round
- Carts and Clubs: Available for rent
- Pull-carts: Yes
- Putting Green: Yes
- Credit Cards: VISA, MasterCard, Amex, Discover Welcomed
- Metal Spikes: Not allowed
- Walking: Allowed
- Dress Code: Shirts with sleeves required on course
Facilities include a clubhouse and meeting/banquet facilities, catering to various events and gatherings. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a day out, Mars-Bethel Golf Course is an excellent choice.
2. Butler Country Club
Butler Country Club, nestled in Butler, Pennsylvania, offers a private golfing experience that is both exclusive and highly rated. With a perfect 5.0 rating, it stands out as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. The club’s reputation for excellent conditions and a friendly atmosphere makes it a sought-after location for members.
- Private club with a 5.0 rating
- Known for its excellent conditions
- Offers a friendly atmosphere
Butler Country Club provides a serene and meticulously maintained golfing environment, ensuring a memorable experience for every member.
While the club is private, those who have the opportunity to play here speak highly of the course layout and the pace of play, although some have noted that the pace can be slow at times. It’s a place where the quality of the golfing experience is given utmost importance, making it a jewel among the top golf courses in Illinois.
3. Suncrest Golf Course
Nestled in Butler, Pennsylvania, Suncrest Golf Course offers a delightful golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Established in 1960, the course is open year-round, providing ample opportunity for golf enthusiasts to enjoy the game regardless of the season.
The course is well-regarded for its excellent conditions and challenging layout, with a particular emphasis on the tricky 13th and 18th holes. The 13th is a par 4 flanked by six sand traps, while the 18th is a par 3 that features water hazards and a large pond behind the raised green.
Suncrest Golf Course is known for its friendly and professional staff, from the pro shop to the snack bar, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Amenities at Suncrest include a clubhouse, meeting facilities, and banquet facilities, catering to a variety of golfing events and personal needs. While the course does not have a driving range, it does offer a putting green for those looking to improve their short game.
Here’s a quick glance at what Suncrest Golf Course has to offer:
- Year Built: 1960
- Golf Season: Year round
- Carts, Clubs, Pull-carts: Yes
- Putting Green: Yes
- Credit Cards: VISA, MasterCard, Amex, Discover Welcomed
- Dress Code: Shirts with sleeves required on course
With a public type setting and a slope rating of 137, Suncrest Golf Course is a must-visit for those seeking an affordable yet high-quality golfing experience.
4. LakeVue North Golf Course
LakeVue North Golf Course offers a delightful golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Established in 1960, this course has been a staple in the Pittsburgh area for over six decades, providing year-round golfing opportunities. With its welcoming policy that allows walking, it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely round of golf while adhering to a dress code that maintains the sport’s traditional values.
The course is well-equipped with amenities such as carts and clubs for rent, and a putting green for those looking to improve their short game. However, golfers should note that there is no driving range available. The clubhouse and banquet facilities make it an excellent choice for events and gatherings.
LakeVue North is not just about the golf; it’s about the experience. The 19th hole is renowned for its scenic views and is a perfect spot for drinks after a game.
Golfers have consistently rated the course highly, with an average review score of 4.1. The challenges on the course include bunkers and undulating greens, which require strategic play and careful shot selection. It’s a course that rewards good play, making it a favorite among advanced golfers and locals alike.
Here’s a quick glance at the course’s ratings from recent reviews:
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 4.0 |
| Value | 4.2 |
| Layout | 4.2 |
| Pace | 4.0 |
| Amenities | 3.6 |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.4 |
With its convenient location and the promise of a memorable golfing experience, LakeVue North Golf Course is a must-visit for anyone looking to play an affordable round of golf in the Pittsburgh area.
5. Fort Cherry Golf Club
Fort Cherry Golf Club, established in 1960, offers a year-round golfing experience that caters to players of all levels. With a 4.1 rating from 358 reviews, it’s clear that this course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The course is well-equipped with a clubhouse, meeting facilities, and banquet facilities, making it an ideal location for both golf and social events. While the course does not have a driving range, it does feature a putting green for golfers to practice their short game.
Fort Cherry Golf Club is recognized for its challenging layout, which includes water hazards, bunkers, and elevation changes. These elements demand strategic play and offer an engaging round for golfers.
Here’s what golfers appreciate about Fort Cherry Golf Club:
- The 19th Hole is great for drinks, dinner, and watching the game.
- The course’s challenges, such as water hazards and bunkers, provide a stimulating experience.
- It’s a preferred spot for locals, seniors, and advanced golfers.
The club’s policies are golfer-friendly, with carts, clubs, and pull-carts available for rent. Metal spikes are not allowed, ensuring the maintenance of the greens. Credit cards are accepted, and while walking is allowed, fivesomes are not.
Fort Cherry Golf Club is not just a place to play golf; it’s a community hub where the game is celebrated and enjoyed in a picturesque setting.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our tour of affordable golf courses in the Pittsburgh area, it’s clear that golf enthusiasts have a variety of options to choose from without breaking the bank. From the semi-private greens of Fox at Pittsburgh North Golf Club to the public fairways of Old at Saxon Golf Course, there’s a course to suit every preference and skill level. Whether you’re looking for a casual round at Conley Resort & Golf or aiming to challenge yourself at the well-rated Fort Cherry Golf Club, the Pittsburgh region offers accessible golfing experiences amidst its rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Remember to check the latest reviews and ratings, as they can provide valuable insights into course conditions and amenities. So grab your clubs, and enjoy a day on the links at any of these budget-friendly Pittsburgh courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some affordable golf courses in the Pittsburgh area?
Affordable golf courses in the Pittsburgh area include Mars-Bethel Golf Course, Butler Country Club, Suncrest Golf Course, LakeVue North Golf Course, and Fort Cherry Golf Club.
Are these golf courses open to the public?
Most of the courses listed, such as Mars-Bethel Golf Course, Suncrest Golf Course, and LakeVue North Golf Course, are public. Some courses like Butler Country Club may have private membership but could offer public play at certain times or under specific conditions.
Do these golf courses offer amenities like carts and club rentals?
Yes, many of these golf courses offer amenities such as cart rentals, club rentals, and even GPS devices to enhance your golfing experience.
Can I find a golf course suitable for all skill levels in the Pittsburgh area?
Yes, the Pittsburgh area has golf courses that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. Courses like Conley Resort & Golf are designed to be enjoyable for high handicappers and casual golfers alike.
What is the golf season for courses in the Pittsburgh area?
The golf season in the Pittsburgh area typically runs year-round, weather permitting. However, the best conditions are usually found from spring through fall.
Are there any golf courses in the Pittsburgh area that have received accolades or high ratings?
Yes, some golf courses in the Pittsburgh area have received accolades. For example, a course might be rated as one of the top courses in Pennsylvania by Golf Advisor or other golf publications.