Best Golf Courses in Rhode Island

Updated February 2024 to update booking information.

It’s hard to believe that there’s much room for golf courses in the smallest state in the Union.  But there is.  And some of them are absolutely iconic. 

I haven’t played any of them personally, as I’ve never even set foot in the state.  But I know just from being a golf nut that the above statement is true.  Courses like Newport Country Club (the oldest in the nation), The Carnegie Abbey Club, and Warwick Country Club are just a few tracks that have histories going back almost two centuries.  Unfortunately, most of us won’t ever step foot on these courses because they’re private. 

The good news is there are plenty of great public tracks that are accessible to everyone.  How do I know?  Because our readers told me so.

Before I waste any more time, let’s have a closer look.

Looking for a bold and beautiful golfing adventure in Providence, Rhode Island? Then Triggs Memorial Golf Course, designed by renowned architect Donald Ross, may just be the perfect destination for you.

This classic New England layout, set on 140 acres of the former Obadiah Brown Farm, offers a historic and visually stunning backdrop for your golf game. The original trees lining the fairways not only provide a charming setting but also pose strategic challenges.

The small, sloped greens, guarded by trees and bunkers, make for a demanding and rewarding round of golf.

What sets Triggs Memorial Golf Course apart is its recognition as one of the best municipal golf courses in the United States. As a municipal course, it offers a high-quality event accessible to all. Additionally, the course’s design by Donald Ross has garnered it the title of an American Dream Course of the Northeast by Links Magazine, further solidifying its status as a must-visit golf destination in Providence, Rhode Island.

If you’re seeking a golfing experience that combines challenge, history, and natural beauty, Triggs Memorial Golf Course is one of the best choices in New England.

 

Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Rhode Island, Green Valley Country Club offers a demanding and rewarding golfing happening for players of all skill levels. As a semi-private facility, it warmly welcomes the public to its popular track, making it a noteworthy destination for golf fans in the Ocean State. The club’s classic old-school New England layout, with many original trees lining the fairways, adds to the allure of this golfing gem.

Green Valley Country Club is renowned for being a stern test for golfers, particularly appealing to better players. The course demands a variety of shots, with small, sloped greens that are well-protected by trees and strategically placed bunkers. Moreover, the club offers a unique event by providing night golf on select summer nights, adding an extra layer of excitement for those seeking a different golfing adventure.

For those looking to experience the rich golfing heritage of Rhode Island, Green Valley Country Club stands out among the state’s offerings, alongside other esteemed clubs such as Newport Country Club, Wannamoisett Country Club, and Warwick Country Club. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Green Valley Country Club promises an unforgettable golfing adventure in the heart of Rhode Island.

 

 

Tucked away in Rumford, Rhode Island, Agawam Hunt Golf Course stands as a timeless testament to the rich heritage of golf in New England. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross, this historic course offers a classic old-school New England layout that’s a must-visit for golf lovers. Its rolling hills, native fescue-lined fairways, and tough greens make for a demanding yet charming round of golf. The course’s small, sloped greens, protected by trees and bunkers, provide a stern test for golfers of all skill levels. Originally part of the Obadiah Brown Farm, the course’s 140 acres are steeped in history, with many of the original trees still lining the fairways.

Agawam Hunt Golf Course is a true gem, offering a genuine golfing event. Located in Providence, it holds a significant place in the rich golfing heritage of Rhode Island. Whether you’re a local or visiting from Newport, the public access course is a delightful and demanding place to play. With its historical significance and challenging layout, it’s no wonder the United States Golf Association has chosen Agawam Hunt Golf Course to host various championships.

Louisquisset Golf Club, located in North Providence, continues the tradition of offering a bold and beautiful golfing experience, providing a seamless transition from the historic Agawam Hunt Golf Course. This semi-private facility, designed by Ken Venturi, is renowned for providing a top-tier golfing adventure in the state.

The course layout, meandering through wetlands, wooded areas, and rolling hills, offers a diverse and scenic golfing event. Mature oak trees bordering the fairways add to the natural beauty and challenge of the layout, making it one of the best golf courses in the city of Providence.

Louisquisset Golf Club is a haven for both experienced players and newcomers, offering an enjoyable yet demanding round of golf. The well-maintained course combines strategic challenges with picturesque surroundings, ensuring a memorable golfing event for all who visit.

Whether you’re a trained golfer or new to the game, Louisquisset Golf Club stands out as an exceptional option for those seeking a quality public golf course in North Providence.

When you visit Valley Country Club, you’ll discover a charming course with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The challenging, quick, and undulating greens will test your skills, making every round exciting and unpredictable. The traditional design of the course ensures that you’ll need to use all the clubs in your bag, offering a well-rounded and fulfilling golfing adventure.

If you’re looking for a welcoming and highly recommended golf course in Rhode Island, Valley Country Club is a must-visit. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this course offers a friendly and inclusive atmosphere for all.

When you’re in Rhode Island, be sure to explore the diverse range of golf courses, including the historic Newport National Golf Club, the scenic Shelter Harbor Golf Club, and the beautifully maintained Obadiah Brown Farm. Each course has its own unique charm and challenges, making Rhode Island a true gem for golf enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Even though the Ocean State is known for water and winter sports more than anything, it has a rich and diverse history of great golf.  While much of the lore is steeped in private clubs, there’s plenty of great public golf that anyone can play. 

As always, my heartfelt thanks go out to everyone that helped make this guide possible.  Leave us a comment below and let us know what you think.