Golf in the Lehigh Valley
Allentown and the surrounding Lehigh Valley have a rich golf heritage. The region's rolling terrain, mature trees, and natural creeks provide ideal settings for golf course design. Over the decades, the area has hosted major championships, including United States Open and Senior Open events at Saucon Valley Country Club, cementing its reputation as a serious golf destination.
For local golfers, the variety is a major advantage. Elite private clubs, affordable municipal courses, and scenic semi-private layouts make the game accessible to players of every skill level and budget. The golf season typically runs from early spring through late fall, with peak conditions in May, June, September, and October.
What Makes a Great Golf Course
Course design, conditioning, and practice facilities are key factors. Golfers also value pace of play, friendly staff, quality clubhouse amenities, and good value. For beginners, walkable layouts, forgiving fairways, and practice areas are especially important, while experienced players often seek challenging designs with historic pedigree.
The Top 10 Golf Courses in and Around Allentown
1. Saucon Valley Country Club
Saucon Valley Country Club in nearby Bethlehem is one of the most prestigious private clubs in the country. Its championship courses have hosted the U.S. Open, U.S. Amateur, and multiple U.S. Senior Opens, earning international acclaim.
2. Lehigh Country Club
Lehigh Country Club is a premier member-only course designed by legendary architect William Flynn. Known for dramatic topography and outstanding short-game practice facilities, it offers a demanding yet rewarding test.
3. The Club at Twin Lakes
The Club at Twin Lakes offers a mature eighteen-hole championship course built on a former iron ore mine. It is widely recognized as one of the top public options in the region, featuring distinctive holes and excellent conditioning.
4. Allentown Municipal Golf Course
Allentown Municipal Golf Course is a beloved public destination with a walkable layout and a lighted driving range. It supports tournament play through the Golf Association of Philadelphia and offers excellent value for local golfers.
5. Shepherd Hills Golf Club
Shepherd Hills Golf Club has offered public golf in the area since 1963. Its friendly atmosphere and accessible layout make it popular with golfers of all levels.
6. Brookside Country Club
Brookside Country Club in Macungie offers a classic private club experience with a well-maintained course and active membership community. Its family-friendly amenities extend beyond the course.
7. Bethlehem Golf Club
Bethlehem Golf Club is a municipal facility featuring an eighteen-hole championship course and a nine-hole executive course. Its affordable rates and practice facilities make it a regional favorite.
8. Olde Homestead Golf Club
Olde Homestead Golf Club in New Tripoli offers scenic countryside views and a challenging layout. Its relaxed setting and strong conditioning attract golfers seeking a peaceful round.
9. Southmoore Golf Course
Southmoore Golf Course in Bath provides a well-designed public layout with varied holes and good value. It is a popular choice for leagues and casual rounds.
10. Locust Valley Golf Club
Locust Valley Golf Club in Coopersburg features tree-lined fairways and rolling terrain. Its semi-private format and welcoming atmosphere make it a hidden gem in the southern Lehigh Valley.
Golf Trends in the Region
Golf has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with more young players and families taking up the game. Courses are responding with improved practice facilities, beginner-friendly programs, and junior clinics. Technology is also changing the experience, from GPS-equipped carts and launch monitor practice bays to online tee time booking.
Sustainability is another important trend. Many courses are adopting water-efficient irrigation, native vegetation areas, and wildlife-friendly practices that reduce maintenance while enhancing natural beauty.
Tips for Golfing in Allentown
Book tee times early on weekends, especially during spring and fall. Take advantage of twilight rates for affordable evening rounds during summer. Check course conditions after heavy rain, as some layouts may restrict cart use. For newer golfers, start with executive courses or nine-hole rounds to build confidence and enjoy the game at a comfortable pace.
Golf Etiquette and Pace of Play
Good etiquette makes every round more enjoyable. Repair ball marks on greens, replace or fill divots on fairways, and rake bunkers after use. Be ready to play when it is your turn, and consider ready golf on casual rounds to keep the pace moving. Let faster groups play through when appropriate, and keep carts on paths near greens and tees. Many Lehigh Valley courses also have dress codes, so check before arriving, especially at private clubs.
Learning the Game Locally
New golfers in Allentown have plenty of ways to get started. Many public courses offer group clinics, private lessons with PGA professionals, and junior camps during summer. Driving ranges and practice greens provide low-pressure environments to build fundamentals before heading to the course. Joining a local league is another great way to improve, meet fellow golfers, and enjoy regular rounds throughout the season.
Final Thoughts
From world-famous championship venues like Saucon Valley to accessible favorites like Allentown Municipal and Bethlehem Golf Club, the Lehigh Valley offers an exceptional variety of golf experiences. Whether you are chasing a personal best or enjoying a relaxed round with friends, these ten courses showcase the best golf in and around Allentown.