Merion Golf Club, located in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia, is a bastion of golf history and tradition. Recognizable instantly by its signature wicker basket flagsticks, Merion is home to two highly-regarded courses. The East Course, famous for its small scale and immense challenge, has hosted more USGA championships than any other course in the nation and remains one of the world’s most revered layouts.
The Golf Courses
Merion operates two 18-hole courses: the storied East Course and the demanding West Course.
- The East Course (Championship Course): Despite being one of the shortest courses to regularly host majors, the East Course is considered a masterpiece of strategic design. It is defined by its dramatic topography, deep bunkers, and sloping, fast greens. The course famously ends with the iconic 18th hole, where Bobby Jones finished his Grand Slam in 1930.
- The West Course: Located across Ardmore Avenue, the West Course provides a formidable, challenging experience in its own right. Though less famous than the East, it is highly rated and complements the main course perfectly.
Major Championship History
Merion has one of the richest championship histories in American golf, hosting 18 USGA events, including five U.S. Opens.
- U.S. Open: The club has hosted the U.S. Open five times: 1934, 1950, 1971, 1981, and 2013. The 2013 U.S. Open was the first major hosted here in 32 years and proved the course remains a relevant test for modern professionals.
- U.S. Amateur: Merion hosted the U.S. Amateur a record six times, including the 1930 tournament where Bobby Jones completed the legendary Grand Slam.
- U.S. Women’s Open: The club has hosted the U.S. Women’s Open in 1950, 1965, and 1989.
- Upcoming Majors: Merion is scheduled to host the 2030 U.S. Open and the 2034 U.S. Women’s Open, celebrating the centennial of Jones’s Grand Slam.
Club Overview
Established: 1896
Location: Ardmore, Pennsylvania, USA (Philadelphia Metropolitan Area)
Course Architect: Hugh Wilson (East Course)
Address: 450 Ardmore Ave, Ardmore, PA 19003, USA
How to Get to Merion Golf Club
Merion is situated in the prestigious suburbs west of Philadelphia, close to major roadways and transit options.
- By Air:
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): The closest major airport, located approximately a 20-30 minute drive from the club.
- By Rail:
- SEPTA Regional Rail: Merion is easily accessible via the Paoli/Thorndale Line, with the Merion station just a short distance from the club.
- By Car & Parking:
- The club is located just off U.S. Route 30 (Lancaster Avenue).
- On-site parking is available for members and their invited guests.
Playing at Merion Golf Club
Merion is an exclusive, private club known for its adherence to tradition and its walking-only policy on the East Course.
- Visitor Tee Times: Merion does not offer any public tee times, packages, or visitor green fees. Access is strictly limited to members and their accompanied guests.
- Green Fees: Green fees are not published, as access is restricted to members and their invited guests only.
- Note: Players on the East Course are required to walk and take a caddie, honoring the game’s classic traditions.
Where to stay near Merion Golf Club
As an exclusive private club, Merion does not offer on-site public accommodation.
- Nearby Areas:
- Ardmore/Bala Cynwyd: These Main Line suburbs offer local boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing the closest proximity and a high-end local experience.
- City Center (Philadelphia): Staying downtown offers excellent access to world-class hotels, dining, and historical sites, roughly a 20-minute drive east of the club.
- King of Prussia: This area, about 30 minutes northwest, offers large commercial hotels and extensive shopping options.
- Booking Tips:
- For any chance to play, obtaining a direct invitation from a member is essential.
- For accommodation, look for options along the Philadelphia Main Line for the most convenient location near the club.
- Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options in the Philadelphia area.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Merion Golf Club
Last Updated on September 28, 2025 by Sports Tourist