Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point

Ferry Point opened in 2015 as New York City\'s first championship-caliber municipal golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus on a 222-acre former landfill in the Bronx. The project took approximately 31 years from concept to completion at a cost of roughly $97 million in city funds. Construction incorporated recycled schist rock from the 2nd Avenue Subway and East Side Access tunnel projects.

The course was originally operated under the Trump Organization before Bally\'s Corporation assumed operations in 2023. Despite the naming controversy, the Nicklaus links-style design has been widely praised — ranked No. 3 Best Public Course in New York by Golfweek (2025).

The closing stretch (holes 13-18) runs along the waterfront with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, Whitestone Bridge, Throgs Neck Bridge, and East River — arguably the most dramatic setting for public golf in the world.

Ferry Point is a true links-style layout built atop a capped landfill with firm-and-fast fairways, deep Nicklaus-style pot bunkers, and dense penal fescue rough lining wide fairways. Wind off the East River is a constant factor, particularly on the exposed closing stretch.

Conditioning is exceptional — frequently rated 9/10 by reviewers. The course is very difficult: narrow corridors defined by thick fescue, deep bunkers, and firm greens combine with persistent wind to create a stern championship test at 7,400 yards.

The Manhattan skyline, Whitestone Bridge, and East River views — especially on holes 13-18 — are unmatched in public golf anywhere.

Wind off the East River affects every shot on the closing holes. Check wind direction before each swing and adjust club selection accordingly.

Missing fairways into the fescue is severely punishing. Accuracy off the tee matters far more than distance on this links-style layout.

The deep Nicklaus-style bunkers demand confident sand play. Avoid them when possible — getting out can cost multiple strokes.

On the driveable 7th (279 yards), assess wind carefully before deciding to go for the green. A smart layup leaves a simple pitch.

The closing stretch (13-18) is the most scenic but also the most exposed. Stay patient and play within yourself.