Last year, we had plans to visit the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine, but unfortunately, it closed just before our trip.
As a Floridian, it was a bit bittersweet to see it go, but it seemed fitting for it to return to its original home.
Now situated on the historic grounds of the Pinehurst Country Club, the new setting is nothing short of impressive. Originally established in Pinehurst in 1974, the Hall of Fame relocated to St. Augustine in 1998 and has now returned to its roots.
Just opening recently, the museum grounds are so new that they were still finalizing stain colors for the wood floors when we arrived.
World Golf Hall of Fame Highlights
Fred Couples World of Golf Hall of Fame Locker
If you’re visiting for the first time here’s a few of the highlights:
Pinehurst’s History of Golftown USA: Contains historical artifacts with original items including Payne Stewart’s defining moments on Pinehurst No. 2.
Science of Golf: Here you’ll find a detailed breakdown of course grass, understanding pace of play, and the science of the golf ball.
The Hall of Fame Lockers: Tour the second floor with original golf clubs and gear from golf’s greatest legends. You’ll find most your time is spent here.
Although I expected the museum to be larger, it’s certainly worth a visit.
And, you can’t beat the location. You’re just a short walk from The Deuce restaurant, which overlooks famous hole 18 on Pinehurst No. 2.
New Headquarters in Pinehurst
The relocation of the World Golf Hall of Fame marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Pinehurst, North Carolina.
Between the Golf Hall of Fame Museum, the opening of Pinehurst No. 10, and the numerous USGA Championships on the horizon, Pinehurst is becoming a influential epicenter where golf history continues to unfold.
Although the USGA golf museum isn’t as extensive as the former St. Augustine location, lacking the replica TPC Sawgrass hole, it offers a remarkable collection of some of the finest golf artifacts I’ve encountered.
First Floor: Pinehurst, USGA, & Science of Golf
The first floor features an engaging exploration of the science and history of golf courses and golf balls, along with a special room dedicated entirely to Pinehurst. Visitors can also enjoy a brief film on USGA championship courses.
Among the highlights is a small but meaningful collection of items from Payne Stewart’s iconic win at Pinehurst No. 2.
Stewart who was usually meticulous about his appearance cut his sleeves off his rain jacket when it became too restrictive during his final round of the 1999 U.S. Open. The “vest” is on display which he wore when he sunk his 15-foot putt and he celebrates his victory with his famous fist pump.
Amelia Earhart’s golf club set (1930)
You’ll find other unique stories like when Amelia Earhart flew into Pinehurst in 1931 and played golf with her Wilson set of clubs.
The set was donated years later by Babe Didrikson Zaharias and is on display on the first floor.
Second Floor: Golf Hall of Fame Lockers
If golf science and education aren’t really your thing, don’t worry—there’s plenty more to explore upstairs.
The lockers filled with Golf Hall of Fame memorabilia are the real highlight.
I could have spent a few hours just up there looking at each one of the players clubs or favorite items they shared with the public.
Newcomers like Padraig Harrington are showcased up front and as you start down the rows you’ll see legends like Ben Hogan and Donald Ross with their original clubs to view.
All the Major champion trophies are also on display, so you can get a up-close glance.
These displays bring the history of golf to life, making a visit to the Hall of Fame at Pinehurst an unforgettable experience.
You’ll notice little details about each players equipment such as Johnny Miller’s 8 iron that has a good amount of lead tape on it.
Hours + General Information
The World Golf Hall of Fame is located on the USGA’s Golf House Pinehurst campus, situated on the property of the Pinehurst Resort’s Main Clubhouse.
The museum address is 3 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst, NC 28374.
The hours are daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on major holidays. However, you’ll want to check their website for intermittent schedule changes and tour inquires.
Cost is $10 per person, and kids under 12 are free. The World Golf Hall of Fame also provides discounts to USGA members and North Carolina residents. It is ADA accessible.
There is also plenty of free parking for everyone, including golf carts.
While at the Pinehurst Country Club
The gold standard of course would be to stay at one of the Pinehurst Resort hotels and play golf. But, there’s more to do while here.
The Deuce
Make time to walk over to The Deuce for a drink or a meal which overlooks hole 18 on Pinehurst No. 2.
You’ll find the iconic statue of Payne Stewart and you can watch golfers finishing their last hole. Try the Chi-Chi Lee Margarita, it’s perhaps the best margarita I’ve ever had.
The Cradle
The Cradle by Gil Hanse tests even the best short game skills. It is a beautiful 9-hole short course located next to the clubhouse.
If you don’t pass the first test, you can replay your round for free. It’s casual, fun, and most commonly played without shoes.
Thistle Dhu
Next to The Cradle, the Thistle Dhu is perhaps the most challenging putt-putt golf I’ve ever played. It’s filled with unique challenges including fast greens, hills, and valleys.
Play is free, so just ask their starter for a putter and golf ball, and enjoy an incredible 18-hole putting course.
Don’t Skip the Tufts Archives
For anyone planning a visit to Pinehurst, a stop at the Tufts Archives at the Given Memorial Library in the village is worthwhile.
This well-curated collection, free to explore, offers a pristine display of Donald Ross’s architectural designs, photographs, and a fascinating array of artifacts.
If you’re visiting with kids, the library is welcoming to young children with their own section of library books and a puppet show.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the fence of visiting, don’t be. Just go.
While the first floor was informative, you’ll find that most your time will be spent on the second floor admiring all the legends of the game and their gear.
And while you’re on sacred grounds, make time to head over to clubhouse next.