Pennsylvania, a state steeped in golf history, boasts some of America’s most esteemed courses. From challenging U.S. Open venues to lesser-known architectural treasures, these layouts highlight the craftsmanship of legends like William Flynn, Donald Ross, and A.W. Tillinghast. Here’s a ranking of the state’s top courses, each a work of art in its own right.

Pennsylvania’s Best: Top 10 Golf Courses from Arnold Palmer’s Birthplace, Ranked

Oakmont stands as the ultimate test of golf. Its relentless bunkers, deep drainage ditches, and fast greens contribute to its fierce reputation. Following a significant tree removal project that restored its original design, Oakmont has reaffirmed its status as the toughest course in America.

Oakmont, Pennsylvania, USA

1. Oakmont Country Club, Oakmont, PA

Merion is all about precision. Its narrow, winding fairways and punishing rough and deep bunkers challenged the world’s best during the 2013 U.S. Open. Justin Rose’s one-over-par victory highlighted its unyielding difficulty. With Gil Hanse’s recent restoration enhancing its historic design, Merion is poised to host another Open in 2030, solidifying its legacy.

15. Merion Golf Club East (Ardmore, Pennsylvania)

2. Merion Golf Club (East), Ardmore, PA

Donald Ross once referred to Aronimink as his “masterpiece,” yet the course has transformed through years of changes. A recent renovation by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner has reinstated Ross’s original bunkering, sharpening its strategic challenges. Today, Aronimink is a blend of architectural excellence, merging classic design with modern tournament readiness.

3. Aronimink Golf Club, Newtown Square, PA

Nestled in Arnold Palmer’s backyard, Laurel Valley showcases Dick Wilson’s finest work. Its strategic bunkering, rolling fairways, and challenging greens have tested elite players for decades. Palmer, who played a key role in renovating the course, once contemplated becoming its head pro.

4. Laurel Valley Golf Club, Ligonier, PA

Tillinghast’s home club has undergone a complete restoration, bringing back features like the par-5 seventh’s “Great Hazard” and its complex greens. Once dulled by overgrown trees and reduced greens, the course now plays as Tillinghast envisioned. Even his ashes were scattered in the creek that runs across the 18th.

5. Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon), Flourtown, PA

Once hard to recognize as a Seth Raynor design, Fox Chapel has been meticulously restored to reveal its original brilliance. The Biarritz green on 17 has been revived, the iconic Short hole has been restored, and the bunkers have been reshaped to their classic forms. The course now stands as a tribute to one of golf’s greatest architects.

6. Fox Chapel Golf Club, Pittsburgh, PA

A William Flynn original, Lancaster’s rolling terrain and river-carved valleys create a visually stunning and highly strategic challenge. Water comes into play on nearly every hole, forcing players to make constant risk-reward decisions. The course has hosted the U.S. Women’s Open twice, showcasing its ability to challenge the best while providing thrilling shot-making opportunities.

7. Lancaster Country Club (Meadow Creek/Dogwood), Lancaster, PA

Tom Doak’s minimalist gem, Stonewall’s Old Course, blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Elevation changes dictate strategy, with a thrilling downhill approach to the 18th green as the highlight. A layout featuring five par-3 holes adds variety, making it one of Pennsylvania’s most unique and engaging championship courses

8. Stonewall (Old Course), Elverson, PA

A hidden gem in Pennsylvania’s golf landscape, Gulph Mills is rich in history. Though not as well-known as its counterparts, its design pedigree and strategic layout offer a coveted experience for those lucky enough to play it.

9. Gulph Mills Golf Club, King of Prussia, PA

William Flynn and Howard Toomey designed one of the most challenging courses in Pennsylvania. The rugged landscape guarantees that only tee shots land on flat ground. The course layout skillfully navigates through the valley, with water hazards and rolling greens consistently putting players to the test. A recent restoration for its centennial celebration has revived some of its original features, breathing new life into this classic course.