If you're looking for top public golf courses near Pittsburgh, you'll find a range of options offering scenic views, challenging layouts, and well-maintained grounds.
The five best are Cranberry Highlands, Quicksilver, Butler’s, Grand View, and Hickory Heights.
Keep reading for a detailed look at what each course has to offer and why they're worth your time.
Cranberry Highlands Golf Course: Scenic Beauty and Strategic Design
Cranberry Highlands Golf Course offers a beautiful blend of strategic design and natural scenery, making it one of the most popular public courses near Pittsburgh.
Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, the course promises an enjoyable and challenging experience that keeps golfers coming back.
Location and Accessibility
Cranberry Highlands is located in Cranberry Township, approximately 30 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, making it a convenient option for locals and visitors alike.
The drive is straightforward, with easy access from major highways, allowing you to quickly escape the city and enjoy a round in a more relaxed, suburban setting.
Course Highlights
This 18-hole course is best known for its stunning scenic layout and excellent upkeep.
The fairways are wide and forgiving, offering plenty of room to make solid drives, but the course’s 90 sculpted bunkers add a layer of complexity that will keep you on your toes.
The layout also features a mix of elevation changes, making each hole unique and requiring players to think strategically about their shots.
From tee to green, the course is beautifully maintained, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable round whether you're playing a casual game or practicing for a tournament.
Who Should Play Here
Cranberry Highlands caters to golfers of all skill levels.
For beginners, the generous fairways provide some breathing room, allowing for a more forgiving round, while more experienced players will appreciate the strategic challenges posed by the bunkers and elevation shifts.
This balance makes it a great course to bring a mixed group, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
Its beautiful surroundings and thoughtful layout make it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a picturesque round of golf in a peaceful environment.
Recognition
Cranberry Highlands has earned a strong reputation, including being named Pennsylvania’s Best Municipal Golf Course.
This recognition speaks to the course's top-tier maintenance, strategic design, and overall quality.
It’s a must-play for anyone in the area looking for a high-quality round without the need for a private club membership.
Quicksilver Golf Club: Pristine Condition and Professional-Level Challenge
Quicksilver Golf Club offers a pristine golf experience for those looking to challenge themselves on a professional-level course.
With a history of hosting prestigious tournaments, it consistently ranks as one of the top public golf courses in Western Pennsylvania, making it a go-to destination for serious golfers in the Pittsburgh area.
Location and Accessibility
Located in McDonald, PA, Quicksilver is just a 25-minute drive from downtown Pittsburgh.
This proximity makes it ideal for golfers who want a quick escape from the city without sacrificing quality.
The course is easy to access, yet it feels worlds away from the urban hustle, providing a peaceful and focused atmosphere for golfers of all levels.
Course Highlights
Quicksilver has gained recognition not only for its immaculate maintenance but also for its history of hosting Senior PGA and Ben Hogan Tour events, which speaks volumes about the quality and difficulty of the course.
Its wide fairways might seem inviting at first, but the challenge truly lies in the fast greens that require precision putting and careful approach shots.
The course is designed to test every aspect of your game, from driving accuracy to short-game finesse, making it a favorite among seasoned players who thrive on high-level competition.
Course Layout
The layout at Quicksilver is as beautiful as it is challenging.
The fairways are consistently maintained to perfection, and the overall course design is strategic, meaning you’ll need to think carefully about every shot.
There’s a real sense of progression throughout the course, with each hole offering a new test—whether it’s navigating around water hazards, bunkers, or simply mastering the speed of the greens.
Quicksilver is consistently rated among the top public courses in the region, and it’s easy to see why once you play a round. The combination of challenge and beauty creates an unforgettable experience.
Who Should Play Here
Quicksilver is best suited for more experienced or serious golfers.
While beginners are welcome, the fast greens and more technical aspects of the course are designed to push your skills to the limit, making it a solid choice for those looking to improve or maintain their competitive edge.
Whether you're preparing for a tournament or simply want a top-level challenge, this course will provide exactly that.
It's the perfect destination for golfers who want to experience professional-grade conditions without traveling far from Pittsburgh.
Butler’s Golf Course: Affordable Golf with Scenic Views
Butler’s Golf Course offers an excellent blend of affordability and scenic beauty, making it a top choice for golfers near Pittsburgh.
With two distinct 18-hole layouts, it caters to players seeking variety without breaking the bank, all while providing some of the best views in the area.
Location and Accessibility
Butler’s Golf Course is located in Elizabeth, PA, about 35 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh.
Although it's a slightly longer drive compared to other courses, the trip is well worth it for the unique golfing experience offered by its two distinct layouts.
The course is accessible by car, making it a convenient option for golfers who don’t mind traveling a bit to enjoy a quality round at a more affordable price.
Course Highlights
One of the standout features of Butler’s Golf Course is the fact that it offers two completely different 18-hole layouts: Woodside and Lakeside.
The Woodside course has a more traditional design, appealing to golfers who enjoy classic layouts with straightforward challenges.
On the other hand, the Lakeside course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and challenging vistas, giving golfers a bit more excitement and requiring them to adjust their strategies as they navigate the changing terrain.
This variety means that whether you’re looking for a steady, predictable round or a more dynamic and unpredictable game, you’ll find something to enjoy here.
Affordability is another major draw for Butler’s.
The course is known for offering great value, making it accessible to golfers who want to enjoy a round without spending too much.
This is particularly appealing to casual golfers, weekend warriors, or those looking to play multiple rounds without a hefty financial commitment.
Scenic Appeal
In addition to its unique layouts, Butler’s Golf Course is situated in a location that offers stunning river views.
These scenic backdrops elevate the entire golfing experience, allowing players to enjoy beautiful natural surroundings while navigating the course.
The combination of affordability and breathtaking views makes it a standout option for golfers who want more than just a basic round of golf.
Who Should Play Here
Butler’s Golf Course is an excellent choice for casual golfers who are looking for a variety of layouts at a reasonable price.
The two different courses ensure that players won’t get bored, offering a mix of traditional and more challenging designs.
It’s also a great fit for budget-conscious golfers who still want to experience a well-maintained course with scenic views.
Whether you’re local to Pittsburgh or visiting the area, Butler’s offers an enjoyable round of golf that’s easy on the wallet without sacrificing the overall experience.
Grand View Golf Club: The “Monster on the Mon”
Grand View Golf Club, often referred to as the “Monster on the Mon,” is known for its challenging yet enjoyable layout, making it a standout course near Pittsburgh.
With breathtaking views and a demanding design, it’s the perfect destination for golfers who want a memorable round that will put their skills to the test.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Braddock, PA, Grand View is only about 17 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, making it one of the more conveniently located courses for city dwellers.
The short drive makes it easily accessible for locals looking to get in a quick round or visitors wanting to experience one of the area's most iconic public golf courses without straying too far from the city.
Course Highlights
Grand View Golf Club lives up to its name with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, which includes the Monongahela River.
The course is characterized by hilly, tree-lined fairways, giving it a unique and picturesque feel.
These scenic elements provide a wonderful backdrop as you make your way through the course, but don’t let the beauty fool you—this is a challenging course in every sense of the word.
Nicknamed the “Monster on the Mon,” the layout features tricky elevations, narrow approaches, and strategically placed hazards that require a thoughtful approach on every hole.
Course Difficulty
The course’s reputation for difficulty is well-earned, but it strikes a good balance between challenge and enjoyment.
Golfers of all skill levels will find themselves tested, but not overwhelmed, by the mix of long, demanding holes and more approachable ones.
The hilly terrain means you’ll need to plan your shots carefully, accounting for elevation changes and tricky lies, while the tight, tree-lined fairways force you to play with accuracy and precision.
Despite the challenge, the course is still very enjoyable, especially for those who thrive on strategic play and adapting to diverse conditions.
Who Should Play Here
Grand View is best suited for golfers who enjoy a tough but rewarding round.
Whether you’re a mid-level player looking to sharpen your game or an advanced golfer seeking a real test, this course will not disappoint.
The combination of its challenging layout, scenic beauty, and proximity to Pittsburgh makes it a must-play for anyone in the area.
It’s an excellent choice for golfers who want to experience a course that pushes them physically and mentally while offering some of the best views of the Monongahela River.
Hickory Heights Golf Club: A Country Club Experience for Public Golfers
Hickory Heights Golf Club offers a country club experience without the high costs, making it a favorite among public golfers in the Pittsburgh area.
Known for its immaculate conditions and technical layout, it provides an enjoyable yet challenging round for players seeking a more strategic game.
Location and Accessibility
Located in Bridgeville, PA, Hickory Heights is about 20 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, making it a convenient option for both casual and serious golfers looking for a quick but high-quality round.
Its close proximity to the city means you can easily fit in a round without having to travel far, whether you’re a local golfer or visiting the area.
Course Highlights
Hickory Heights is well-regarded for its classic design that balances beauty and challenge.
The course is meticulously maintained, offering lush fairways and smooth greens that rival private clubs.
What sets it apart is the country club-like experience it provides at public course prices.
From the moment you step onto the course, you’ll notice the attention to detail in both the landscape and the overall atmosphere, giving you the feel of an upscale golf experience without the need for a membership.
Technical Course Layout
The layout of Hickory Heights demands precision and strategy.
With narrow fairways that require accurate tee shots and small greens that challenge your short game, the course is designed to test even the most skilled golfers.
Each hole presents its own set of unique challenges, from carefully placed bunkers to subtle slopes on the greens.
While the course is challenging, it remains fair, rewarding those who play with strategy and precision.
Golfers who enjoy a mental test and thrive on planning their shots will find this course particularly rewarding.
Who Should Play Here
Hickory Heights is ideal for golfers who appreciate a well-maintained, technical course that challenges them without the high price of a private club.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy a more strategic round, where accuracy is key and each hole requires careful thought.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer looking to refine your skills or a casual player seeking a well-kept course, Hickory Heights offers an elevated golfing experience at a fraction of the cost.
How to Choose the Right Course for You
Choosing the right golf course near Pittsburgh depends on several factors, including your skill level, location, and the type of experience you're seeking.
With so many great options available, it's important to know what each course offers so you can find the one that best fits your needs.
Consider Skill Level
When selecting a course, think about your own skill level and what type of challenge you're looking for.
Quicksilver Golf Club and Grand View Golf Club are perfect choices if you're an experienced golfer seeking a more difficult, professional-level course.
Both feature technical layouts and fast greens that demand accuracy and skill.
On the other hand, if you're a beginner or prefer a more relaxed round, Cranberry Highlands and Butler’s Golf Course offer forgiving fairways and a balance of playability and challenge, making them great options for less experienced players.
Think About Location
Location plays a big role in choosing the right course.
If you're closer to Pittsburgh, Grand View Golf Club and Hickory Heights Golf Club provide easy access with minimal travel, making them ideal for a quick round without straying far from the city.
For those willing to drive a bit further, Butler’s Golf Course and Cranberry Highlands offer distinct experiences that are worth the extra time.
Keep in mind your proximity to these courses, especially if you’re looking for a convenient round after work or a weekend getaway from the city.
Scenic vs. Technical
Do you prefer a scenic, relaxing game or a course that tests your strategic abilities?
If scenic views are a priority, Butler’s Golf Course and Grand View will deliver stunning backdrops, with river views and panoramic vistas that enhance your golfing experience.
But if you're more interested in technical challenges, Hickory Heights and Quicksilver are better suited to players who thrive on strategic shots and precision, with narrow fairways and complex layouts.
Deciding whether you want a visually striking round or a technical test can help guide you toward the best course for your preferences.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh offers a variety of excellent public golf courses, each with unique features to suit different skill levels and preferences.
Whether you're seeking a challenging layout or beautiful scenery, there’s a course nearby to meet your needs.
Use this guide to find the perfect course for your next round and enjoy the best of what Pittsburgh’s golf scene has to offer.
