The tradition of golf in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region of Western New York began over a century ago. It started with the development of the Chautauqua Golf Club at Chautauqua Institution where the first round of golf was played on July 18, 1914. Since then, this top-rated golf club has hosted over 14 World Golf Hall of Famers and is one of only two 36-hole golf courses between Cleveland and Rochester. Visit their expansive Golf Learning Center with your group for range, practice holes and quality instruction. With this strong foundation, the sport of golf in Chautauqua County continued to grow and is now home to over a dozen public golf courses with options ranging from 9-hole courses to 18-hole courses.
Another noteworthy golf course in Chautauqua County is the Upper Course at Peek’n Peak Resort. This championship-caliber course is par-72 with yardages ranging from 4,800 to 7,000 yards to accommodate players of all skill levels with five teeing options. The course offers professional playing conditions such as bent grass and fairways. The course’s unique terrain and natural features include rolling hills, deep sand bunkers, panoramic views and mature woods that create a spectacular atmosphere and unrivaled beauty.
Most golf courses throughout the region are open to the public but also offer membership options for both individuals and families. Courses are open for playing seasonally, usually beginning in mid to late May and stay open through the end of October, weather permitting.
After some time on the greens, grab a bite to eat and a refreshing beverage at the golf course’s onsite restaurant such as the Bemus Point Golf Club and Taphouse that features a craft food style menu and over 20 beers on tap. Local golf courses host a variety of golf tournaments throughout the season. Register for one and join in on the fun or partner with a Chautauqua County course and host your own. Many local courses offer discounted rates during the off season as well as golf packages that include lodging and dining options.
Mini Golf
In addition to the highly ranked golf courses, the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region is also home to several mini-golf courses that are great options for family fun. Midway State Park is one of the oldest consecutively operating amusement parks in the nation and features a mini golf course called Putt Around Chautauqua that highlights iconic Chautauqua County destinations throughout the course.
Webb’s Miniature Golf is located near Webb’s Year-Round Resort and Webb’s Candies. This state-of-the-art course boasts challenging holes, beautiful landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget to complete your game with an ice cream cone! Peek’n Peak Resort is also home to Peek’n Putt, an 18-hole mini golf course designed to test your skills with gently rolling terrain and water hazards.
Wish you could play a round of golf all year round? Mulligans on Fairmount is an indoor entertainment venue that offers digital golf all year long. Play at hundreds of famous golf courses or improve your game with a practice mode that provides feedback, data and videos.
Book your next golf getaway to the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region. Visit TourChautauqua.com or call 866-908-4569 for more information about golfing and all your trip planning needs.
