The 10 Oldest Golf Courses in Massachusetts With Public Access

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?

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FIND IT. PLAY IT. LIVE IT.