The 2025 Ryder Cup has put Bethpage Black back in the spotlight, reminding golfers why the Black Course at Bethpage State Park is often called the greatest public course in America. Sitting just outside New York City on Long Island, the course balances extreme difficulty with a fee structure that most private clubs could only dream of offering.
Why Bethpage Black Stands Out
When Bethpage Black first opened its doors in the 1930s, it was designed to be a testing ground for the most ambitious amateurs. Decades later, the course has earned a permanent place on GOLF magazine’s Top 100 list – 34th overall and 5th among public venues – a rare achievement for a municipal facility. Its signature challenges include an unforgiving rough that swallows errant drives, a length that stretches well beyond 7,400 yards from the back tees, and a series of blind shots that demand precision and nerve.
Perhaps the most iconic feature is the warning sign perched behind the first tee: “If you think you’re good enough, you’ve probably been told that this is a test.” It’s a tongue‑in‑cheek reminder that the Black Course isn’t for casual weekenders; it’s a genuine championship test open to anyone who can afford the green fee.
Over the years the course has hosted two U.S. Opens (2002, 2009), the Barclays PGA Tour event (2012, 2016), and the PGA Championship in 2019. Each major reinforced the Black’s reputation for punishing even the world’s best players. Now, as the Ryder Cup arrives, the course’s legacy of high‑stakes competition adds another chapter to its storied history.
Pricing Details for Residents and Visitors
The fee schedule is deliberately transparent, with separate tiers for New York State residents, juniors, seniors, and out‑of‑state guests. Weekday and weekend rates differ, as do twilight (late‑day) discounts, which make it possible to sneak in a round after work without breaking the bank.
- New York residents: $70 weekday, $44 twilight; $80 weekend, $50 twilight.
- Junior (under 18) & senior (65+) residents: $47 weekday, $30 twilight.
- Non‑residents: $140 weekday, $88 twilight; $160 weekend, $100 twilight.
Unlike many courses, Bethpage Black does not allow golf carts, eliminating that extra charge and preserving the course’s traditional walking experience. For those who prefer a cart, the neighboring Green or Blue courses are available at a modest additional fee.
When you compare these numbers to the typical $300‑$400 rounds charged by many private clubs that appear in the same GOLF Top 100 list, the value proposition becomes crystal clear. The Black Course delivers championship‑level conditions, a storied tournament pedigree, and a genuine test of skill—all for a fraction of the price.
Beyond the Black, Bethpage State Park hosts four additional 18‑hole courses – Green, Blue, Yellow, and Red – collectively handling roughly 300,000 rounds each year. The Red Course, in particular, has garnered a loyal following for its more forgiving layout, offering a stepping stone for players who aren’t ready for the Black’s relentless demands.
Because the venue is public, tee times fill up fast during the Ryder Cup week, and online reservations are strongly advised. Many local hotels and transportation services have started offering shuttle packages to ease the influx of fans and players traveling from the city.
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