As they say, New York City has everything. Even the most unexpected things, which are the complete opposite of the dense forest of concrete and glass skyscrapers, can be found here. Golf clubs, for example! Chelsea Piers Golf Club is an opportunity to play golf right in the heart of Manhattan. Technically, of course, it is a four-level driving range rather than a course with holes, but it is still a very popular club.
The enormous club, approximately 55 by 206 meters, is surrounded by a net supported by masts as tall as a sixteen-story building. About 350,000 people visit it every year, making more than 17 million golf swings. Usually, all 52 hitting bays are occupied. As the author of a report about the golf club noted, the only time you might not have to wait for your turn is probably during a snowstorm.
According to the management at the time, in 2017, the core audience consisted of Manhattan residents between the ages of 25 and 44, approximately three-quarters of whom were men. But the crowd is diverse: the same report describes everyone from people in “classic golf attire” to people dressed in punk rock outfits.
Interestingly, because the club is located along the Hudson River waterfront with a view of the neighboring state, New Jersey, it once had an advertising slogan: “Try to hit it to New Jersey.” Many people also thought that the golf balls flew into the river, although, of course, there is a net in place.
Despite the large number of experienced players, the golf club in Manhattan is a real magnet for beginners, who take several tens of thousands of lessons there every year. And it is hardly surprising that an hour of play or a lesson at Chelsea Piers Golf Club is one of the most popular gifts among couples.
Visitor’s Information
📍Chelsea Piers Golf Club / 59 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011
Website: chelseapiers.com
An hour of play costs approximately $48–$74, depending on the time. Up to four people can share a booth. A 55-minute private lesson starts at $155.
