News

Championship Golf Near the City

Western New York quietly delivers some of the most fun and playable golf in the state — and these three courses are proof.

Glen Oak Golf Club – East Amherst, NY

Known for its impeccable conditions and tournament pedigree, Glen Oak is a classic parkland Robert Trent Jones-design with smooth greens and a great mix of risk-reward holes. It’s hosted countless NYSGA qualifiers and amateur events, and the layout is friendly for all skill levels while still providing a solid test from the back tees.

Bonus: The practice facilities are excellent — perfect if you want to sharpen your game before heading out.

Niagara Frontier Golf Club – Youngstown, NY

Perched near the shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara Frontier delivers a traditional layout with tree-lined fairways, subtle doglegs, and a walkable design. It’s a hidden gem for those who love old-school golf — no frills, just great holes and pure golf. Plus, the setting close to the Niagara River gives the course a peaceful, scenic backdrop.

Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course – Lewiston, NY

Named for the hickory trees that line the property, Hickory Stick is a modern course designed by Robert Trent Jones II. With expansive bunkering, wetlands, and strategic water hazards, it offers a true championship-caliber experience. Located just minutes from Niagara Falls, it’s the perfect blend of beauty and challenge.

Tip: Play early in the day to leave time for sightseeing — you’re right near some of New York’s most iconic spots.

Eat, Drink & Celebrate a Good Round

Buffalo’s food scene is booming — and it’s not just about wings (though you should definitely get wings too). Here are a few must-visit spots for golfers who appreciate a good post-round meal:

Bar-Bill Tavern (East Aurora)

The gold standard for authentic Buffalo wings. Crispy, sauced to perfection, and backed by their iconic beef on weck sandwich, this is a must-stop after your round. You’ll be talking about it the whole way home.

Big Ditch Brewing Company (Downtown Buffalo)

Proudly brewed in the heart of the city and served at Bills games, Big Ditch is Buffalo’s go-to brewery. Their flagship Hayburner IPA has earned cult status, and the downtown taproom offers everything from seasonal brews to shareable plates in a lively, open space. It’s a perfect stop post-round or pre-Sabres game.

The Left Bank (Buffalo)

Looking for something a little more refined? The Left Bank offers a cozy, upscale vibe with Italian-inspired cuisine, house-made pasta, and standout cocktails — ideal for capping off the trip with a group dinner.

Off-Course Adventures

Buffalo is packed with things to see and do — perfect for rounding out a long golf weekend.

Niagara Falls

It’s the classic for a reason. Whether you book a Maid of the Mist boat tour or just explore the observation decks, Niagara Falls is a bucket-list experience — and only about 20 minutes from the courses you’ll be playing.

Canalside Buffalo

This revitalized waterfront district offers kayak rentals, bike paths, outdoor concerts, and plenty of spots to grab a drink by the water. It's an awesome way to unwind after golf.

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Formerly the Albright-Knox Gallery, the AKG is one of the country's oldest public art institutions and recently reopened after a massive renovation. Even if you're not an art buff, the building itself and its modern, accessible vibe make it worth the visit.

Elmwood Village

Take a stroll down Elmwood Avenue for boutique shopping, coffee shops, craft breweries, and local flavor. It's the perfect Sunday wind-down spot before heading home.

Why This Trip Is Built for NYSGA Members

The courses featured in every NYS Golf Escape are selected to highlight the best of NYSGA’s membership network — combining access, hospitality, and a true player-first experience. It’s about more than just the round; it’s about the full trip, tailored to members who love golf and love exploring New York.

Plan Your Buffalo Golf Escape Today

Great golf, famous wings, roaring waterfalls, and sunset cruises on Lake Erie — Buffalo is more than a city; it’s a perfect golf escape waiting to happen. Book your tee times, pack your clubs, and get ready to make a few new memories — both on and off the course.

Want more Golf Escapes? Stay tuned for the next edition of NYS Golf Escapes, where we spotlight another can't-miss destination designed with NYSGA members in mind.