For the pro golfers ready to represent Europe and the U.S, and for the professionals who’ve tended Bethpage State Park to greatness, the road to the Ryder Cup begins on the grounds. As both groups prepare for the 2025 Ryder Cup, we hear from Bethpage’s team – dedicated stewards of the park – as they share details about their day-to-day work to make the park shine.
Tag Archives: Bethpage Golf Course
Ryder Cup 101: What’s All the Excitement About?
The 2025 Ryder Cup is coming to New York State Parks, and it’s going to be a historic moment for both golf and New York. For the first time, Bethpage State Park is hosting the highly anticipated men’s golf competition between the United States and Europe. The PGA of America will bring the prestigious tournament to the famed Black Course this September. Like the Super Bowl, the FIFA World Cup, and the Olympics, the Ryder Cup is the peak event of professional golf and fans around the world couldn’t be more thrilled.
Continue reading Ryder Cup 101: What’s All the Excitement About?Countdown to the Ryder Cup at Bethpage State Park
Just over a year ago, at the conclusion of the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club outside Rome, Italy, there was a Silver Putter Presentation to the host of the next Ryder Cup. That silver putter plaque now hangs inside the clubhouse at Bethpage State Park where the 45th Ryder Cup matches will be contested in late September 2025.
You have a few months left to view that silver putter up close before 24 of the world’s best players bring their own prized putters – and the rest of their golf bags – to Bethpage Black for the 2025 Ryder Cup. The countdown is officially on for a competition at what is considered one of the best, and hardest, courses in the world.
Continue reading Countdown to the Ryder Cup at Bethpage State ParkSummer Fun at State Parks and Historic Sites
There’s nothing quite like a New York summer! It’s peak season at New York State Parks and Historic Sites. Camping is in full swing, whether it’s in one of our cabins, or in tents or RVs. The swimming season is underway at our beaches and pools. And if you’re looking to make the most of the season, we’ve got you covered. Our expert staff members have combed the state to suggest exciting summertime experiences for everyone. There’s bound to be something new for you on this list!
Listen to the Sounds of Summer


Summer concerts are happening all season long, and there’s an affordable live music option for everyone. Enjoy the longer days and warmer nights with festivals and performances by world-famous musical artists at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, Jones Beach Theater at the iconic Jones Beach in Wantagh, and Artpark in Lewiston, or boogie with your favorite local bands at a state park or historic site near you. All options offer the chance to relax and enjoy the show from a blanket or chair.
– Written by Gabriela Wemple, Excelsior Service Fellow
Continue reading Summer Fun at State Parks and Historic Sites
State Golf Courses Are In The Swing
When you think of golf and New York State Parks, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Bethpage Black. It was well known on Long Island for decades but rose to prominence worldwide when the USGA brought its signature tournament, the U.S. Open, to “the people’s country club” 22 years ago.
A fellow you may have heard of, Tiger Woods, was victorious that year when he was at the peak of his powers – his eighth Major victory (he currently has 15). He and the U.S. Open came back to Bethpage seven years later for a soggy slugfest that ended on a muddy Monday. It was a journeyman named Lucas Glover who held off Woods and the rest of the elite field, winning his one and only Major title. A decade later, Bethpage Black hosted another Major tournament, the PGA Championship, won by Brooks Koepka. And next year, 2025, it will host an event unlike anything ever experienced there – the 2025 Ryder Cup.
But this post isn’t about that much-anticipated international competition, although they are already preparing. This is about all the great golf opportunities State Parks has around New York.
Continue reading State Golf Courses Are In The Swing


