Massachusetts may be home to some of America’s oldest private clubs, but what about courses where anyone can tee it up? For golfers who love public play with a sense of tradition, we’ve rounded up the Bay State’s ten oldest golf courses open to the public. These tracks are rich in history and old-school charm – and they’ll happily book you a tee time. Grab your niblick and let’s take a trip back in time, one historic fairway at a time!
1. The Royal and Ancient Chappaquiddick Links (1887) – Chappaquiddick Island, MA
Memorable, oldest course – A tiny, rustic nine-holer tucked away on Martha’s Vineyard, Chappy Links is more a golf time capsule than a traditional round. Open seasonally, walking only, and pure vibes.
2. Highland Links (1892) – Truro, MA
Scottish-style 9-holer on cliffs – Cape Cod’s most dramatic public golf course, perched beside a lighthouse with wild Atlantic winds. Links-style, quirky, and beautiful.
3. Siasconset Golf Course (1894) – Siasconset, MA
Historic Nantucket 9-holer – “Old Sconset” brings coastal charm and ancient vibes. Expect short yardage, unpredictable breezes, and lots of local color.
4. Greenock Country Club (1895) – Lee, MA
Early club with Ross redesign – Originally laid out by Willie Dunn, with a Donald Ross touch added in 1927. One of the few public Ross tracks in the Berkshires.
5. Presidents Golf Course (1895) – Quincy, MA
Historic Quincy muni – Hilly and compact with skyline views. Originally nine holes, now a sporty 18. Public since the 1930s.
6. Chatham Seaside Links (1895) – Chatham, MA
Breezy coastal 9-holer – A short walk from downtown Chatham, this charming links runs along the dunes with ocean views and salty air.
7. Country Club of Greenfield (1896) – Greenfield, MA
Classic 18-holer with Findlay roots – This full-length Western Mass track offers a traditional feel with solid conditioning and scenic New England terrain.
8. Southborough Golf Club (1896) – Southborough, MA
Quiet 9-hole layout – A peaceful, walker-friendly course that’s more than 125 years old. Great for working on your short game.
9. Taconic Golf Club (1896) – Williamstown, MA
Golden Age classic with Hanse restoration – One of the nation’s top public-access courses. Ross-style design, mountain views, and a collegiate pedigree.
10. William J. Devine Golf Course at Franklin Park (1896) – Boston, MA
Boston’s historic muni – America’s second-oldest public course. Rolling parkland layout with views of the skyline and loads of history.
Wrapping Up: These ten courses are more than just places to play – they’re living history. Whether you’re chasing birdies or soaking up the nostalgia, there’s something magical about walking fairways that have seen generations of golfers before you. Ready to add a little history to your scorecard?
FIND IT. PLAY IT. LIVE IT.