If you're coming to New York for a golf vacation, you probably got on the wrong plane. Unless you've got an in at the private clubs (the New York area probably has more great private courses than any place in the country), it's not a great area for golf. But if you must play while you're here and don't know any members of Winged Foot or Shinnecock, here's some suggestions:
Best Upscale Public Centennial Golf Club Centennial is a 27-hole semi private facility in Carmel, NY - about an hour drive from Manhattan in light traffic. It may sound far, but it's hard to find a decent public course without driving at least 30-45 minutes; at that point, the extra 20 minutes is worth it for a good course. Centennial is a great layout with good conditions and good management. With 3 nines and a location far enough from the city, it's ... [more]
Best Upscale Public Centennial Golf Club Centennial is a 27-hole semi private facility in Carmel, NY - about an hour drive from Manhattan in light traffic. It may sound far, but it's hard to find a decent public course without driving at least 30-45 minutes; at that point, the extra 20 minutes is worth it for a good course. Centennial is a great layout with good conditions and good management. With 3 nines and a location far enough from the city, it's ... [more]
Golf, Jay Weiss
Taxi?
Nothing cries 'tourist' more than waving one's hands vigorously and fruitlessly as off-duty and fare-carrying taxis speed by. Here's the simple rule: if the taxi's numbers on his rooftop are lit, he's free. If they aren't lit, he's not. And if they are flanked by "off duty" lights, he's not. Here's the exception: sometimes an off-duty driver can be convinced to take you to your destination: if it's on his way home. If he stops for you, inquire.
Here's another vehicular tip: those town cars honking at you as you stand on the corner are livery cabs. They are not licensed to carry passengers but have a brisk business. If you are desperate for transportation and air-conditioning, it's an option.