Los Angeles Country Club

Hidden behind its exclusive gates, the Los Angeles Country Club whispers tales of golfing legends and Hollywood glamour. The Los Angeles Country Club isn’t just a golf course. It’s a living piece of Los Angeles history. Established in 1897, the club has evolved from a humble nine-hole course called “The Windmill Links,” named after its repurposed windmill clubhouse, to a world-renowned 36-hole haven. The Los Angeles Country Club first took root near Pico and Alvarado Streets. As its popularity grew, it relocated twice. It finally settled in Beverly Hills in 1911. This current location boasts the stately clubhouse we see today, along with tennis courts and two challenging 18-hole courses: the North and South. The North Course, a masterpiece designed by George C. Thomas, Jr. and later restored by Gil Hanse, stands as a testament to golfing excellence. This course has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the 2023 U.S. Open, marking the club’s first major championship. The Los Angeles Country Club’s rich history intertwines with the Los Angeles Open, hosting the inaugural tournament in 1926 and welcoming it back four more times. The club’s history also holds moments of triumph. For instance, Lawson Little’s victory at the rain-soaked 1940 Los Angeles Open. Beyond the greens, the Los Angeles Country Club’s clubhouse, designed by Sumner Hunt, exudes timeless elegance. It has recently undergone extensive restoration, preserving its original charm while incorporating modern amenities. The club’s exclusivity has also sparked debate. Its remarkably low tax rate, due to its non-profit status and measures passed in the 1970s favoring golf courses, has drawn criticism. The Los Angeles Country Club remains a coveted destination for those seeking a blend of sporting excellence and social prestige.