Merion Golf Club (East Course)
- Par
- 70
- Yardage
- 7,025yds
- Holes
- 18
- Opened
- 1912
- Access
- Private
- Design
- Classic
History
Merion Golf Club's East Course is a compact masterpiece on the Philadelphia Main Line, designed by amateur architect Hugh Wilson on just 110 acres. Its famous wicker baskets on flagsticks and stone bridge over Cobbs Creek are iconic images. Merion has hosted five U.S. Opens, including Bobby Jones' completion of the Grand Slam in 1930, Ben Hogan's miraculous 1950 comeback after a near-fatal car accident, and Justin Rose's 2013 victory. The par-70 layout demands the full arsenal of shot-making, with small, quick greens and demanding angles that have challenged every generation of champions.
Signature Hole
11th 'White Faces of Merion', par 4, 370 yards — where Ben Hogan clinched his 1950 U.S. Open comeback with an iconic 1-iron
Notable Tournaments
- 1934 U.S. Open
- 1950 U.S. Open
- 1971 U.S. Open
- 1981 U.S. Open
- 2013 U.S. Open
- 1930 U.S. Amateur
In the context of the top 100
Where this course sits against every ranked course on the list.
Frequently asked questions
Is Merion Golf Club (East Course) public or private?
Merion Golf Club (East Course) is a private club. Play is generally limited to members and their accompanied guests.
Who designed Merion Golf Club (East Course)?
Merion Golf Club (East Course) was designed by Hugh Wilson and opened in 1912.
Where does Merion Golf Club (East Course) rank among the top golf courses in America?
Merion Golf Club (East Course) ranks #6 on our consensus ranking of America's 100 greatest golf courses, synthesized from Golf Digest, Golfweek, and GOLF Magazine.
What is the signature hole at Merion Golf Club (East Course)?
The signature hole at Merion Golf Club (East Course) is the 11th 'White Faces of Merion', par 4, 370 yards — where Ben Hogan clinched his 1950 U.S. Open comeback with an iconic 1-iron.