36 Best Public Golf Courses In Connecticut (2025)
Plan your next round with this 2025 list of Connecticut’s best public golf courses. Find quality play, great rates, and scenic layouts.
Oct 17, 202571 Shares35.4K Views
Connecticut offers a wide range of high-quality public golf courses, from scenic layouts along the shoreline to championship-level tracks in the hills. Many of these courses are professionally designed and well maintained, offering the same quality of play you would expect at private clubs without the membership fees.
Golfers of all skill levels can find a course that fits their game, whether it is a beginner-friendly 9-hole course or a challenging 18-hole layout with tournament history.
This guide highlights 36 of the best public golf courses in Connecticut, based on factors like course design, amenities, affordability, and overall player experience. Each course is open to the public and provides a strong value, making them top picks for both locals and visitors.
Lake Of Isles – North Course (Public) | North Stonington, CT
The North Course at Lake of Isles is a public 18-hole course located in North Stonington, Connecticut, adjacent to Foxwoods Resort Casino. Designed by Rees Jones and opened in 2005, it features a par-72 layout stretching over 7,300 yards. The course is known for its rolling terrain, scenic wetlands, and top-tier playing conditions.
Managed by Troon Golf, it offers public access through online booking, with dynamic pricing based on time and demand. Amenities include a double-ended practice range, GPS-enabled golf carts, and a well-stocked pro shop. The course has received high ratings from Golfweek and Golf Digest and is often ranked among the best public courses in New England.
While the South Course is private, the North Course is fully open to the public and offers a premium golf experience.
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Gillette Ridge Golf Club | Bloomfield, CT
Gillette Ridge Golf Club is a public 18-hole course located in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 2004, the course features a par-72 layout with tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, and several water hazards. It measures over 7,000 yards from the back tees and is considered one of the more challenging public courses in the state.
The club offers a full driving range, practice greens, a pro shop, and a clubhouse with a restaurant. Tee times can be booked online, and the course offers seasonal rates and discounts for seniors and juniors. Gillette Ridge has hosted amateur events and is respected for its well-maintained conditions.
It is consistently rated among Connecticut’s top public golf options and offers a quality experience for both experienced and casual golfers.
Shennecossett Golf Course | Groton, CT
Shennecossett Golf Course is a historic public course located in Groton, Connecticut. Originally established in 1898 and redesigned by Donald Ross in 1926, the 18-hole course offers a classic layout with a par of 71. It features views of the Thames River and Long Island Sound on several holes. The course is known for its traditional design, small greens, and excellent conditioning.
It’s owned by the Town of Groton and is one of the few municipal courses with a Ross design. Amenities include a driving range, practice green, full-service pro shop, and a clubhouse restaurant. Shennecossett offers affordable rates for residents and non-residents, with senior and junior discounts.
The course is recognized as a top municipal course in New England and has been featured in Golfweek rankings.
Blackledge Country Club | Hebron, CT
Blackledge Country Club is a public 36-hole golf facility located in Hebron, Connecticut. It includes two distinct 18-hole courses: the Anderson Glen course and the Gilead Highlands course. Both layouts offer a par-72 experience, with rolling fairways, natural wetlands, and a mix of open and wooded holes.
The Anderson Glen course was established in 1963, while the Gilead Highlands was added in 2000. The club features a large practice facility, pro shop, and the popular Blackledge River Tavern restaurant. Known for affordable rates and well-maintained grounds, the club appeals to golfers of all skill levels.
Tee times are available online, and the club often hosts local tournaments and outings. Blackledge is one of the more versatile public golf destinations in central Connecticut, offering variety and value.
Pomperaug Golf Course | Southbury, CT
Pomperaug Golf Course is a 9-hole public golf course located in Southbury, Connecticut. This executive-style layout is part of the Heritage Hotel property and offers a quick and scenic round suitable for beginners and casual players. The course has a par of 35 and plays just under 3,000 yards, making it accessible but still enjoyable for seasoned golfers.
Pomperaug features a pro shop, putting green, and easy access to the hotel’s amenities, including dining and spa services. Green fees are modest, and hotel guests often receive discounted rates. While small in scale, the course is well-kept and surrounded by wooded areas and river views, providing a peaceful environment for golf. It’s a convenient option for travelers and locals seeking a short public course with good value.
Cedar Knob Golf Course | Somers, CT
Cedar Knob Golf Course is an 18-hole public course in Somers, Connecticut. Opened in 1963 and designed by Geoffrey Cornish, it offers a classic New England layout with a par of 72. The course spans over 6,700 yards from the back tees and features open fairways, strategic bunkering, and scenic countryside views.
Cedar Knob is known for its friendly atmosphere, reasonable pricing, and consistent course conditions. Amenities include a driving range, practice green, full-service pro shop, and an on-site bar and grill. Tee times can be reserved online or by phone, and walk-ons are typically accepted.
The course is a favorite among local golfers for its playability, rural charm, and reliable maintenance throughout the season.
Keney Park Golf Course | Hartford, CT
Keney Park Golf Course is a public 18-hole municipal course located in Hartford, Connecticut. Originally opened in 1927 and redesigned by Robert Ross in 2016, it features a par-70 layout with over 6,400 yards from the back tees. The course is owned by the City of Hartford and is known for its historic design, tree-lined fairways, and fast greens.
After its renovation, Keney Park earned praise from Golfweek and other publications, ranking among the top municipal courses in the country. Facilities include a large driving range, putting green, pro shop, and clubhouse restaurant.
The course offers competitive rates for residents and non-residents, as well as league and junior programs. It’s a highly rated public course with strong community ties and excellent playing conditions.
Fairview Farm Golf Course | Harwinton, CT
Fairview Farm Golf Course is a public 18-hole facility located in Harwinton, Connecticut. Opened in 2000, the par-72 course stretches over 7,000 yards and is known for its wide fairways, water features, and well-manicured greens. Designed for both playability and challenge, it suits golfers of all levels.
The course includes a full driving range, practice putting green, pro shop, and on-site restaurant. Fairview Farm has hosted numerous amateur tournaments and receives strong reviews for course maintenance and scenic layout. Tee times are available online and by phone, with reasonable rates and seasonal discounts.
The course has become a go-to destination in Litchfield County for public golf with a country club feel.
Minnechaug Golf Course | Glastonbury, CT
Minnechaug Golf Course is a 9-hole public golf facility located in Glastonbury, Connecticut. This par-35 course stretches just over 2,500 yards and is ideal for beginners, families, and golfers seeking a quick round. It features tree-lined fairways, gentle slopes, and well-maintained greens.
Owned by the town, Minnechaug is known for being beginner-friendly while still offering enough challenge for mid-level players. Facilities include a small pro shop, practice green, and clubhouse.
The course offers very affordable rates and accepts walk-ons and online bookings. It's especially popular in the warmer months for casual play and junior clinics. Minnechaug is well-regarded as one of the best-kept 9-hole public courses in the Hartford area and provides excellent value for short, relaxing rounds.
Griffith E. Harris Golf Course | Greenwich, CT
Griffith E. Harris Golf Course, also known as "The Griff," is a public 18-hole course located in Greenwich, Connecticut. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones and opened in 1964. The par-71 layout spans nearly 6,800 yards and features large greens, tree-lined fairways, and a challenging back nine.
The course is town-owned and offers discounts for Greenwich residents, with standard public rates also available. Facilities include a full-service clubhouse, pro shop, driving range, and restaurant. The Griff is known for its solid maintenance and is a popular choice for both casual and competitive golfers.
It hosts local tournaments and junior programs throughout the season. As the only public course in Greenwich, it offers a country club experience at a more accessible price.
Portland Golf Course | Portland, CT
Portland Golf Course is an 18-hole public golf facility located in Portland, Connecticut. The par-71 course stretches over 6,200 yards and offers a mix of open and wooded holes with elevation changes throughout. The layout is playable for all skill levels and provides a quiet, countryside setting.
Amenities include a driving range, putting green, practice bunker, pro shop, and a restaurant with outdoor seating. The course is family-owned and operated, which contributes to its welcoming atmosphere and strong local reputation.
Portland Golf Course offers affordable rates, with online tee time booking and discounts for seniors and juniors. It is well-regarded for its consistent course conditions and friendly service, making it a reliable choice for public golf in central Connecticut.
Fenwick Golf Course | Old Saybrook, CT
Fenwick Golf Course is a scenic 9-hole public course located in the coastal borough of Fenwick, part of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Established in 1896, it is one of the oldest golf courses in the state. The par-35 course runs about 2,700 yards and features ocean breezes, links-style fairways, and small greens.
Fenwick offers a walking-only layout with minimal hazards, but wind and tight fairways provide plenty of challenge. The course is maintained by the Borough of Fenwick and open to the public with affordable daily fees.
While it lacks large facilities, the historic setting and views of Long Island Sound make it a popular spot in summer. Notably, actress Katharine Hepburnlived nearby and played here often, adding to its local legacy.
Elmridge Golf Course | Pawcatuck, CT
Elmridge Golf Course is a public 27-hole golf facility located in Pawcatuck, Connecticut. The course features three 9-hole layouts - White, Blue, and Red - which can be played in different combinations for variety. Designed by Al Zikorus and opened in 1966, Elmridge offers a mix of wide-open holes and wooded fairways, making it accessible yet challenging.
The full-length layouts are par-72 and stretch over 6,800 yards depending on the combination. Facilities include a driving range, practice green, full-service pro shop, and a casual restaurant. The course is known for affordable pricing and its ability to accommodate large groups and tournaments.
Elmridge is a popular choice in southeastern Connecticut for golfers looking for flexibility and a classic public golf experience.
Richter Park Golf Course | Danbury, CT
Richter Park Golf Course is a top-rated public course located in Danbury, Connecticut. Designed by Edward Ryder and opened in 1971, this 18-hole par-71 course is known for its challenging layout and scenic surroundings.
The course plays over 6,700 yards and includes water hazards on 14 holes, with West Lake Reservoir bordering much of the property. Owned by the city, it offers competitive rates and online booking. Facilities include a driving range, practice green, pro shop, and a full-service restaurant.
Richter Park has been recognized by Golf Digest as one of the top public golf courses in the country and frequently hosts local tournaments. With excellent conditions and views, it draws both local players and visiting golfers looking for a well-maintained, championship-level public course.
Wintonbury Hills Golf Course | Bloomfield, CT
Wintonbury Hills Golf Course is a premier public 18-hole course located in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Designed by Pete Dye and opened in 2005, it is one of only a few Dye-designed municipal courses in the country. The par-70 course plays around 6,700 yards and combines wide fairways with well-placed bunkers and fast greens.
The course sits in a quiet, residential area and offers scenic views of Bloomfield’s rolling hills. Facilities include a full practice area, pro shop, and a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Wintonbury Hills is owned by the town and managed professionally, offering excellent value with weekday and resident discounts.
It is consistently ranked among the top public courses in Connecticut by Golfweek and Golf Advisor for its layout, maintenance, and service.
Lyman Orchards Golf Club | Middlefield, CT
Lyman Orchards Golf Club is a public 36-hole facility located in Middlefield, Connecticut. It features two full 18-hole courses: the Robert Trent Jones Course and the Gary Player Course. The Jones Course, opened in 1969, is a par-72 with long fairways and scenic views of the surrounding orchard land. The Player Course, opened in 1994, is shorter and more forgiving, making it a great option for mid-level golfers.
Both courses are well-maintained and surrounded by apple orchards and farmland. Facilities include a large practice area, golf academy, pro shop, and a seasonal café. Lyman Orchards is open to the public year-round (weather permitting) and is known for its welcoming atmosphere, junior programs, and value pricing. It’s a popular choice for both casual rounds and group outings.
Alling Memorial Golf Club | New Haven, CT
Alling Memorial Golf Club is a municipal 18-hole course located in New Haven, Connecticut. The par-71 layout spans just over 6,500 yards and features tree-lined fairways, moderate elevation changes, and well-kept greens. Owned and operated by the City of New Haven, the course is open to the public with low rates for residents and discounts for seniors and juniors.
Alling Memorial offers basic practice facilities, including a putting green and driving range, as well as a small clubhouse and pro shop. It is one of the few affordable public golf options in the greater New Haven area and is frequently used for city leagues and school competitions. The course is praised for its consistent conditions and is considered a reliable and budget-friendly golf destination.
Goodwin Park Golf Course | Hartford, CT
Goodwin Park Golf Course is a public 27-hole facility located in Hartford, Connecticut. The complex includes an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole North Course ideal for beginners or quicker rounds. Originally opened in 1906 and redesigned over the years, the par-70 main course plays over 6,100 yards with wide fairways and flat terrain.
Owned by the City of Hartford, it offers affordable rates for residents, with seasonal passes and youth programs. The course features a driving range, practice green, pro shop, and on-site snack bar. Goodwin Park is one of the most accessible public golf venues in the state and supports community events, leagues, and junior golf programs. It’s valued for its ease of play and proximity to downtown Hartford.
Topstone Golf Course | South Windsor, CT
Topstone Golf Course is a public 18-hole facility located in South Windsor, Connecticut. Designed by Al Zikorus and opened in 1997, this par-72 course stretches over 6,500 yards. The course features tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and large, fast greens. It is known for being both scenic and challenging, with well-maintained conditions throughout the season.
Topstone offers a practice range, short game area, putting green, and full-service pro shop. A snack bar and outdoor patio are available for golfers after their round. The course is owned privately but open to the public, with affordable rates and special weekday deals. It hosts regular league play and golf outings, making it a popular choice in the Hartford County area.
Grassmere Country Club | Enfield, CT
Grassmere Country Club is a public 9-hole golf course located in Enfield, Connecticut. Family-owned and operated, this par-36 course measures around 3,200 yards from the back tees and offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere. The layout includes a mix of short and long holes, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Facilities include a putting green, small pro shop, and clubhouse with food and beverages. Grassmere is best known for its friendly service, quick pace of play, and affordable pricing. It’s a local favorite for beginners, juniors, or golfers looking for a quick round. The course also hosts small tournaments and league events throughout the season.
Stanley Golf Course | New Britain, CT
Stanley Golf Course is a large public facility in New Britain, Connecticut, offering 27 holes of championship golf. The three 9-hole layouts—Red, White, and Blue—can be played in various combinations for a full 18-hole round. The par-71 course complex is city-owned and known for excellent upkeep, scenic tree-lined fairways, and challenging greens.
Stanley offers extensive practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, short game area, and the Learning Center for golf instruction. There is also a full-service pro shop and the Back Nine Tavern restaurant on site. Affordable rates and regular community events make Stanley a top choice for public golf in central Connecticut.
Pequot Golf Club | Stonington, CT
Pequot Golf Club is a public 18-hole course located in Stonington, Connecticut, near Mystic. Opened in 1958, the par-70 course measures just under 6,000 yards, making it playable for golfers of all abilities. The layout features small, well-kept greens and tree-lined fairways, with a mix of short par 4s and long par 3s. Pequot is family-owned and offers a friendly, welcoming environment.
Facilities include a driving range, practice green, pro shop, and a snack bar. Rates are affordable, with discounts for seniors and juniors. The course is especially popular during the summer months due to its location near coastal attractions. It is ideal for casual play, outings, and group events.
Hop Brook Golf Course | Naugatuck, CT
Hop Brook Golf Course is a public 9-hole course in Naugatuck, Connecticut. Owned by the town and managed by a professional team, this par-35 layout plays around 3,000 yards and offers a fun, relaxed round for beginners and experienced players. The course includes well-groomed fairways, a few water features, and medium-sized greens.
Hop Brook is known for being affordable and walkable, with quick rounds and good course conditions. The property includes a practice green, small pro shop, and clubhouse with basic food and drink options. Town residents receive discounted rates, and the course hosts local leagues and youth golf clinics throughout the season.
Blue Fox Run Golf Course | Avon, CT
Blue Fox Run Golf Course is a public 27-hole golf facility located in Avon, Connecticut. The course includes three distinct 9-hole layouts—Red, White, and Blue—designed to be played in various 18-hole combinations. The par-72 championship layout features wide fairways, large greens, and a blend of open and wooded holes. The course is well-maintained and caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Amenities include a large driving range, putting green, and full-service clubhouse with a restaurant and pro shop. Blue Fox Run also hosts tournaments, leagues, and special events. The course offers seasonal passes and competitive public rates, making it a popular option in the Farmington Valley area.
ZSTRICT At Chelsea Piers | Stamford, CT
ZSTRICT is an indoor golf simulator facility located at Chelsea Piers in Stamford, Connecticut. Though not a traditional course, it offers high-end virtual golf experiences on over 100 world-famous courses using TrackMan simulator technology.
This public facility is open year-round and is ideal for practice, casual play, or corporate events. ZSTRICT includes private hitting bays, coaching sessions, club fittings, and a bar and lounge area. It appeals to beginners and advanced players alike, especially during the off-season or in bad weather.
With hourly rates and online booking, ZSTRICT is a modern golf experience suitable for all ages and skill levels in Fairfield County.
Sterling Farms Golf Course | Stamford, CT
Sterling Farms Golf Course is a public 18-hole facility located in Stamford, Connecticut. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish, this par-72 course spans over 6,500 yards and features tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and elevated greens. Owned by the city, the course is well-regarded for its maintenance and playability.
Sterling Farms includes a driving range, putting green, short game area, full-service pro shop, and a restaurant. It also hosts The Golf Performance Center and Stamford Golf Academy for instruction. Affordable rates and discounts for residents make it accessible to local players. The course is a popular choice for league play, outings, and public tournaments in Fairfield County.
Longshore Golf Course | Westport, CT
Longshore Golf Course is a scenic public 18-hole course located in Westport, Connecticut, along Long Island Sound. Managed by the town, the par-72 course was originally designed by Orrin Smith in the 1920s and later updated. It offers coastal views, tree-lined fairways, and well-manicured greens.
Longshore provides practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, and features a pro shop and seasonal café. The course is open to the public, but Westport residents receive preferred rates. With strong community support and beautiful waterfront surroundings, Longshore is one of the most popular municipal courses in the state.
Quarry Ridge Golf Course | Portland, CT
Quarry Ridge Golf Course is a public 18-hole facility located in Portland, Connecticut. Known for its dramatic elevation changes and scenic views, this par-71 course stretches over 6,300 yards. The course winds through wooded terrain and former quarry land, creating unique shot angles and challenging holes.
Quarry Ridge includes a practice range, putting green, and a fully stocked pro shop. The clubhouse features a bar and grill with outdoor seating. Reasonably priced and open to all, the course is popular among locals and visitors alike. Quarry Ridge is a great option for golfers seeking variety and a memorable layout in central Connecticut.
Simsbury Farms Golf Course | Simsbury, CT
Simsbury Farms Golf Course is a public 18-hole course owned by the Town of Simsbury. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish, this par-72 course is known for its scenic views and well-kept layout. It stretches over 6,500 yards and features tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and rolling terrain. Facilities include a driving range, putting green, pro shop, and a seasonal snack bar.
The course also hosts junior golf programs, tournaments, and leagues. Reasonable rates and discounts for residents make it a favorite in the Farmington Valley. Simsbury Farms is appreciated for both its playability and peaceful setting in north-central Connecticut.
Cedar Ridge Golf Course | Watertown, CT
Cedar Ridge Golf Course is a 9-hole public course located in Watertown, Connecticut. This par-35 course spans just under 3,000 yards, making it ideal for beginners, families, or golfers looking for a quick round. The course layout is straightforward but well-maintained, with a mix of open and wooded holes.
Cedar Ridge offers affordable daily rates, seasonal memberships, and hosts occasional leagues and events. Practice facilities include a putting green and a small pro shop. With a welcoming environment and friendly staff, Cedar Ridge serves the local community as a convenient and enjoyable golfing option.
Crestbrook Golf Course | Watertown, CT
Crestbrook Golf Course is an 18-hole public course also located in Watertown, Connecticut. Owned by the town, this par-72 course features a traditional New England layout with narrow fairways and undulating greens. The course is well-kept and provides a fair challenge for golfers of all levels.
Facilities include a driving range, practice green, full-service pro shop, and restaurant. Crestbrook is open to all, with discounts available for residents. It regularly hosts leagues, youth programs, and public events. With reasonable pricing and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a popular choice in Litchfield County.
East Mountain Golf Course | Waterbury, CT
East Mountain Golf Course is a public 18-hole course located in Waterbury, Connecticut. This municipal course is a par-70 layout with over 6,000 yards of tree-lined fairways and moderate elevation changes. It offers a putting green, pro shop, and snack bar for convenience.
Operated by the City of Waterbury, East Mountain is affordable and well-suited for casual golfers and league players. It is known for consistent upkeep and accessibility. The course frequently hosts tournaments and community events, making it a key part of the local sports scene in New Haven County.
Farmingbury Hills Golf Course | Wolcott, CT
Farmingbury Hills Golf Course is a 9-hole public course located in Wolcott, Connecticut. This town-owned course features a par-35 layout with scenic views and a relaxed setting. The course measures around 2,800 yards and is suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
Amenities include a practice putting green, clubhouse, and snack bar. Farmingbury Hills offers some of the most affordable rates in the region and often hosts local leagues and school golf teams. It’s a convenient option for a quick, low-pressure round in a welcoming environment.
Raceway Golf Club | Thompson, CT
Raceway Golf Club is an 18-hole public course located in Thompson, Connecticut. This par-72 course stretches over 6,500 yards and is known for its open fairways and smooth greens. It offers a playable layout for golfers of all skill levels, with some challenging holes to test experienced players.
The facility includes a full driving range, practice green, clubhouse, and pro shop. Reasonable green fees and daily specials make Raceway a popular choice in the northeast corner of the state. The club also hosts outings and leagues throughout the season.
Harrisville Golf Course | Woodstock, CT
Harrisville Golf Course is a public 9-hole course located in Woodstock, Connecticut. This par-35 layout is designed for a relaxed round, measuring about 2,900 yards. The course is flat and walkable, making it ideal for seniors, juniors, and beginners. Facilities include a clubhouse, cart rentals, and practice green.
Harrisville is known for its quiet country setting and friendly staff. Affordable rates and seasonal passes attract many local golfers. It’s a reliable choice for a quick and peaceful round in northeastern Connecticut.
Guilford Lakes Golf Course | Guilford, CT
Guilford Lakes Golf Course is a public 9-hole executive course located in Guilford, Connecticut. This par-29 course offers a shorter, 1,700-yard layout that’s ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking to practice their short game. Owned and operated by the town, it features three par-4s and six par-3s.
The course includes a small clubhouse, putting green, and seasonal programs for juniors and seniors. Guilford Lakes is affordable and well-maintained, with strong community support. It’s a great option for a casual round on the Connecticut shoreline.
Chris C Bargas Golf Club At Whinstone | Somers, CT
Chris C Bargas Golf Club at Whinstone is a 9-hole public course located in Somers, Connecticut. This course is part of the larger Whinstone Tavern property and offers a scenic, family-friendly golfing experience.
The par-32 layout is walkable and includes both short and moderate-length holes, ideal for quick play. Amenities include a restaurant, event space, and cart rentals.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the course is named in honor of a local veteran and community member. It serves as a relaxing recreational venue in north-central Connecticut.
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