Best Golf Courses in Lehigh Valley PA (2026) | Public & Private
The Lehigh Valley is one of Pennsylvania's best-kept secrets for golfers. Rolling hills, mature trees, challenging layouts, and course conditions that rival private clubs — all at prices that won't require taking out a second mortgage. Whether you're a scratch golfer seeking a championship test or a weekend warrior looking for an enjoyable round with friends, you'll find courses here that punch well above their weight.
Our top picks include Morgan Hill Golf Course for spectacular mountain views and tournament-quality conditions, Bethlehem Golf Club's Monocacy Course for classic championship golf with a 4-star Golf Digest rating, and Allentown Municipal for exceptional value at under $50 on weekends. All within 20 minutes of each other.
Key Takeaways: Golf in Lehigh Valley
- Top championship course: Morgan Hill (Easton) offers mountain views and a challenging layout that's hosted state tournaments
- Best value: Allentown Municipal delivers championship conditions at municipal prices ($30-$50)
- Most variety: Wedgewood offers 27 holes (three nine-hole courses) you can mix and match
- Best for beginners: Green Pond Country Club welcomes all skill levels with a forgiving layout
- Typical weekend rates: $50-$80 for 18 holes with cart at top public courses
- Book ahead: Weekend tee times at popular courses fill up by Thursday — book 7-14 days in advance
Why the Lehigh Valley Is a Hidden Golf Gem
Location is everything in golf course development, and the Lehigh Valley has it in spades. The region's natural topography — rolling hills carved by glaciers, mature hardwood forests, and limestone-filtered streams — creates terrain that world-class golf architects dream about. You're getting genuine elevation changes and natural hazards, not manufactured mounds and artificial ponds.
Add in Pennsylvania's four-season climate (which creates lush fairways and fast greens), reasonable land costs that kept development healthy, and a golf culture dating back over a century, and you understand why Golf Digest has consistently rated multiple Lehigh Valley courses among Pennsylvania's finest public tracks.
Pro tip: Spring and fall offer the best value. Courses are less crowded, conditions are excellent, and twilight rates can drop weekend prices 30-40%. September and October golf in the Lehigh Valley rivals anywhere on the East Coast.
Private vs. Public: What You Need to Know
The Lehigh Valley has prestigious private clubs like Saucon Valley Country Club (host of the 2024 U.S. Senior Open with three championship courses), Lehigh Country Club (site of the 2025 PGA TOUR Champions event), and Steel Club (Donald Ross-designed 27-hole facility). These are world-class facilities, but they're closed to the public unless you know a member.
Here's the good news: the public courses reviewed below offer conditions and challenges that rival many private clubs, at a fraction of the cost. You're not settling by playing public golf in the Lehigh Valley — you're getting exceptional value.
What Are the Best Golf Courses in Lehigh Valley?
Based on course conditions, layout quality, value, pace of play, and thousands of verified golfer reviews, these are the public courses that Lehigh Valley golfers return to season after season:
1. Morgan Hill Golf Course (Easton)
Morgan Hill consistently ranks as the Lehigh Valley's premier public golf experience, and one round explains why. Located high in the mountains of eastern Pennsylvania at 280 Morgan Hill Road in Easton, this course delivers views that rival Pennsylvania's famous Pocono resorts.
The layout is challenging but fair — you'll use every club in your bag navigating elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and greens that reward precision. Since opening in 2004, Morgan Hill has earned accolades from Golf Digest, Golfweek, and regional publications. Course conditions are exceptional year-round, with bent grass greens that roll true and fairways maintained to near-country club standards.
The clubhouse features The View at Morgan Hill, an upscale restaurant with panoramic vistas perfect for a post-round meal and drinks. Groups of four or more can book golf outings with customized packages.
Details:
Phone: (610) 923-8480
Website: theclubatmorganhill.com
What to expect: Mountain views, championship conditions, elevated greens, strong par 3s
Price range: $60-$80 weekend with cart
Best for: Golfers who want a championship experience without country club prices
2. Bethlehem Golf Club - Monocacy Course
Since 1956, the Monocacy Course at Bethlehem Golf Club has tested golfers with its demanding layout designed by William and David Gordon. Located at 400 Illicks Mill Road in Bethlehem, this 18-hole championship course earned 4 stars from Golf Digest and was voted Best Golf Course in the Lehigh Valley by Lehigh Valley Magazine multiple years running.
The Monocacy Course demands course management skills. Rolling terrain creates uneven lies, tree-lined fairways punish wayward drives, and the greens require reading and touch. This is classic parkland golf that rewards strategy over power.
Conditions are consistently excellent — locals rave about the bent grass greens and well-maintained fairways. If you want a true test of golf that will expose every weakness in your game (and reward every good shot), the Monocacy Course delivers.
Details:
Phone: (610) 691-9393
Website: bethlehemgc.com
What to expect: Championship layout, tight fairways, demanding greens, classic parkland design
Price range: $55-$75 weekend with cart
Best for: Experienced golfers seeking a genuine challenge
Note: Closed for winter season — check website for spring opening dates
3. Green Pond Country Club (Bethlehem)
Green Pond Country Club at 3094 Farmersville Road in Bethlehem combines historical pedigree with modern hospitality. Designed by legendary golf architect Alex Findlay, this course has hosted the Annual Lehigh Valley Amateur Tournament for decades.
What sets Green Pond apart is the greens — consistently rated among the best in the region. They're fast, true, and challenging without being unfair. The layout itself is forgiving enough for mid-to-high handicappers while still offering enough challenge to keep low handicappers engaged.
Green Pond bills itself as "The Public's Country Club," and they mean it. The facility includes a full-service restaurant, event venue (popular for weddings), a well-stocked pro shop, and a golf pro available for lessons. Junior golf programs are excellent, making this a great choice for families introducing kids to the game.
Details:
Phone: (610) 691-9453 (tee times) / (610) 253-2505 (clubhouse)
Website: greenpondcc.com
What to expect: Legendary greens, classic design, welcoming atmosphere, family-friendly
Price range: $50-$70 weekend with cart
Best for: Golfers of all levels; excellent junior programs
4. Wedgewood Golf Course (Coopersburg)
Family-owned since 1963, Wedgewood Golf Course offers 27 holes of golf across three distinct nine-hole courses: Pine, Maple, and Oak. Located at 4875 Limeport Pike in Coopersburg (minutes south of Allentown), Wedgewood gives you options — play Pine/Maple for a traditional 18, or mix in the Oak Nine for a different challenge on your second round.
The real gem here is the 40-acre driving range with all-grass hitting areas and target flags at various distances. This is a luxury most public courses can't offer, and it's perfect for warming up before your round or practicing afterward.
Wedgewood isn't trying to be a championship course — it's focused on providing an enjoyable, well-maintained golf experience at reasonable prices. Course conditions are solid, pace of play is generally good, and the pro shop staff knows their regulars by name.
Details:
Phone: (610) 797-4551
Website: wedge.distinctgolf.com
What to expect: 27 holes (three 9-hole courses), excellent driving range, family-owned hospitality
Price range: $45-$65 weekend with cart
Best for: Golfers who want variety and an all-grass driving range
Note: Check website for current course conditions and closures
5. Allentown Municipal Golf Course
Allentown Municipal offers championship golf at municipal prices — a combination that's increasingly rare. Located at 3400 Tilghman Street in Allentown, this 18-hole course opened in 1952 and underwent extensive renovations that brought it into the modern era.
Sculptured sand bunkers, two ponds, and new bent grass tees and greens make this a legitimate challenge. At 6,845 yards from the championship tees (rating 72.4, slope 132), Allentown Municipal can test any golfer. Multiple tee boxes make it accessible for all skill levels.
The best part? Weekend rates top out around $50 with cart. Twilight rates and weekday deals can drop that to $30-$40. If you're looking for maximum golf value in the Lehigh Valley, this is it. Conditions are consistently praised in reviews — this isn't typical municipal golf, it's a well-maintained championship course that happens to be publicly owned.
Details:
Phone: (610) 395-9926
Website: allentowngolf.org
What to expect: Championship layout, renovated course, excellent value, bent grass greens
Price range: $30-$50 weekend with cart
Best for: Budget-conscious golfers who won't compromise on quality
6. The Club at Twin Lakes (Allentown)
The Club at Twin Lakes at 6200 Cetronia Road in Allentown has one of the most unique origin stories in Lehigh Valley golf. The course was built on the grounds of an old iron ore mine in the late 1950s and early 1960s, creating dramatic elevation changes and terrain features you won't find on typical valley courses.
That mining history translates to interesting golf. You'll play uphill, downhill, and sidehill lies throughout the round. The elevation changes create both challenges and spectacular views. The mature course has tree-lined fairways and well-protected greens that reward accuracy.
Course conditions have improved significantly in recent years. Locals appreciate the effort the management has put into upgrading the facility while maintaining reasonable green fees. This is a great choice if you want a unique layout that feels different from other area courses.
Details:
Phone: (610) 366-9464
Website: theclubattwinlakes.com
What to expect: Unique terrain from old iron ore mine, dramatic elevation changes, mature trees
Price range: $50-$70 weekend with cart
Best for: Golfers who want a unique layout with interesting history
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf in Lehigh Valley
How much does it cost to golf in the Lehigh Valley?
Weekend rates at top public courses range from $50-$80 for 18 holes with cart. Allentown Municipal offers the best value at $30-$50, while premium courses like Morgan Hill charge $60-$80. Twilight rates (usually after 2-3 PM) can save 30-40%. Weekday rates are typically $10-20 cheaper than weekends.
Walking is allowed at most courses and will save $15-20 on cart fees. Senior discounts, resident rates, and season passes can significantly reduce costs if you play frequently.
What's the best time of year to golf in the Lehigh Valley?
September and October offer peak conditions: comfortable temperatures, vibrant fall colors, less humidity, and courses are less crowded than summer. April and May are also excellent once courses fully recover from winter.
Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, and courses are busiest. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so book morning tee times when possible. Winter golf is limited — most courses close December through March depending on weather.
Do I need to book tee times in advance?
Yes, especially for weekend mornings. Popular courses like Morgan Hill and Bethlehem Golf Club fill up Thursday-Friday for Saturday-Sunday morning tee times. Book 7-14 days in advance during peak season (April-October).
Weekday rounds and twilight times are easier to book with shorter notice. Most courses accept tee times online through their websites or services like Fore UP and Golf Now.
Which courses are best for beginners?
Allentown Municipal offers multiple tee boxes including forward tees that make the course manageable for beginners. Green Pond Country Club has a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and a layout that's challenging but not punishing. Wedgewood's 27 holes let you play shorter combinations (18 holes mixing different nines).
Avoid championship courses like Bethlehem Golf Club's Monocacy until you've developed consistent ball-striking — those tight fairways and demanding greens can be frustrating for beginners.
Are there golf lessons available in the Lehigh Valley?
Yes, most courses have golf pros offering individual and group lessons. Green Pond Country Club is particularly known for their teaching programs and junior golf instruction. Prices typically range from $50-$100 per hour for individual lessons, with package deals offering better value for committed students.
Can I walk the courses or is a cart required?
Most Lehigh Valley public courses allow walking, though some have restrictions during peak weekend times. Morgan Hill strongly encourages carts due to the mountainous terrain and distance between some holes — it's a long, hilly walk. Bethlehem Golf Club and Allentown Municipal are more walker-friendly with reasonable distances and less extreme elevation.
Call ahead to confirm walking policies, especially on summer weekends when courses may require carts to maintain pace of play.
What about private country clubs — can I play them?
Private clubs like Saucon Valley Country Club, Lehigh Country Club, and Steel Club are members-only. You'll need an invitation from a member to play as their guest.
The good news: the public courses reviewed above offer experiences that rival many private clubs. You're not missing out by playing public golf in the Lehigh Valley — you're getting exceptional golf at fair prices.
Making the Most of Your Lehigh Valley Golf Experience
Insider Tips from Local Golfers
- Book twilight rates: Most courses offer 30-40% discounts for rounds starting after 2-3 PM. You'll finish 9-14 holes depending on season, perfect for a quick evening round.
- Play weekdays: Courses are less crowded, conditions are often better (less wear), and rates are lower. If you can swing it schedule-wise, Monday-Thursday golf is the best value.
- Check course conditions: Spring can be wet with cart path restrictions. Call ahead or check course websites for current conditions.
- Join email lists: Most courses send weekly deals and last-minute specials to subscribers. You'll get first notice of promotions.
- Respect pace of play: Weekend rounds can take 4.5-5 hours during peak season. Keep up with the group ahead, not ahead of the group behind.
Best Post-Round Stops in the Area
One advantage of golfing in the Lehigh Valley: you're never far from excellent food and drinks. After your round at Morgan Hill, stay at The View restaurant for upscale dining with those mountain views. Playing Bethlehem Golf Club? Historic downtown Bethlehem is 10 minutes away with dozens of restaurants and brewpubs on Main Street.
For beer and burgers, Fegley's Brew Works (Bethlehem and Allentown locations) is a local favorite with award-winning craft beers. Weyerbacher Brewing in Easton is perfect after a Morgan Hill round.
Plan Your Lehigh Valley Golf Trip
The Lehigh Valley is within 90 minutes of Philadelphia, New York City, and Scranton, making it an easy golf destination. Play three rounds over a long weekend — Morgan Hill on Friday, Bethlehem Golf Club on Saturday, and Allentown Municipal on Sunday — and you'll experience three distinctly different courses at various price points, all offering excellent conditions and memorable golf.
Stay in downtown Bethlehem for walkable restaurants, breweries, and nightlife. The Hotel Bethlehem is the area's iconic accommodation, or choose from numerous chain hotels along Route 22 if you prefer modern amenities and easy highway access.
Final Thoughts: Why the Lehigh Valley Deserves a Spot on Your Golf Map
The best golf courses in the Lehigh Valley offer a combination that's increasingly hard to find: championship-quality conditions, interesting layouts that use natural terrain, reasonable green fees, and genuine hospitality. You're not playing dumbed-down municipal golf or overpriced resort courses — you're getting authentic, well-maintained golf at fair prices.
Start with Morgan Hill for spectacular views and tournament conditions, try Bethlehem Golf Club for a classic championship test, or maximize value at Allentown Municipal. You'll understand why Lehigh Valley golfers rarely feel the need to travel elsewhere.
For a full list of golf courses with reviews, rates, and tee time information, browse our Lehigh Valley golf courses directory.
Find the best local businesses in Lehigh Valley. Browse our curated directory of golf courses, restaurants, and contractors in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton — real businesses vetted by locals.
