<![CDATA[412 Golf Guide - Guides N' That - Across Pittsburgh]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/ <![CDATA[Conley Resort & Golf: Golf Gods Laugh: A Stormy Day at Conley Resort & Golf]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=420 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=420
A few weeks ago, my neighbor extended an invite to join his Sunday golf outing at Conley Resort & Golf in Butler, PA. This was likely prompted by my recent bragging about shooting a 39 on a nine-hole course (Clover Hill). With dreams of showcasing my improved game, I eagerly accepted the invitation.
However, the golf gods had other plans.

The morning began with dark storm clouds looming overhead, an ominous sign of things to come. We had to wait out a torrential downpour, and the early hour had me feeling more tired than usual. Despite the rough start, I was determined to make the best of it.

The first hole, a par 4, is fairly straight and wide open. I managed to play it well, giving me a false sense of hope. But as we moved on, my game fell apart. Duff, bad hit, maybe an okay shot, toping the ball, duff, duff... you get the picture. It was a comedy of errors that had me questioning if I had ever held a golf club before.

By the end of the round, my neighbor and his buddy's kindest compliment was, "Hey, you played fast." If playing fast is the best you can get for a compliment, you know it’s been a rough day.

Despite my poor performance, I can't blame the course. Conley Resort & Golf is well-maintained and offers a beautiful, wide-open layout. The greens and fairways are in excellent condition, providing a great playing experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course’s design offers a good mix of challenges without being overly punishing, which makes my disastrous round even more perplexing.

The clubhouse is well-appointed, offering all the amenities you’d expect from a top-notch public course. From the pro shop to the dining options, everything is geared towards making your visit enjoyable. For the money, Conley Resort & Golf is a fantastic value, providing a high-quality golfing experience without breaking the bank.

Though the golf gods weren't smiling on me that day, the outing was still an enjoyable experience. Conley Resort & Golf is a great place to play, whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for a fun day out. If you find yourself in Butler, PA, I highly recommend giving it a try—just maybe don't brag about your last round beforehand!

Here’s to hoping my next outing goes a bit better. Until then, cheers to the ups and downs of golf!
]]> Thu, 18 Jul 2024 13:58:39 +0000 <![CDATA[Strawberry Ridge Golf Course: Nice golf course!]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=411 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=411
I generally liked this course. Well maintained and challenging layout. Some holes with water on the back nine, are difficult. 
]]> Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:54:25 +0000 <![CDATA[Rolling Fields Golf Club: Rolling Fields Holf Club: A Rolling Good Time]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-east-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=409 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-east-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=409
Lately, it seems like it's become a tradition for Hollywood and me to pack up the Jeep and head out to explore—or should I say, creatively disrupt—some of the local golf courses. This time, our golfing adventures took us to Rolling Fields Golf Club in Murrysville, PA, a course that turned out to be delightfully above average and quite the puzzle to unravel on our first visit.

Golf Course Shenanigans

Rolling Fields presents a tricky layout for amateur swingers like Hollywood and me. One local golfer shared a nugget of wisdom that you might almost want to avoid hitting the greens on your second shot. Why? Because those greens are small and speedy, and unless you've got the finesse of a PGA pro—which, spoiler alert, we do not—your ball's likely to end up taking a tour of the fringe. This piece of advice made our round a strategic battle, trying to outsmart the course layout without actually having the skill to back it up.

Culinary Delights at the Turn

Now, let's talk about the real highlight—those hot dogs at the turn. Hands down, these were some of the best dogs we've ever devoured. Perfectly toasted buns, fresh condiments laid out like a feast, and the hot dogs themselves were savory, juicy, and of unmistakable quality. Hollywood and I were in agreement: this was hot dog heaven. The only snag? The beers were a tad on the pricey side. Shelling out over twenty bucks for a six-pack of Miller Lite pounders and a gourmet hot dog did have us wincing a bit, but hey, good food at a golf course is worth a few extra bucks, right?

The Scenic Yet Demanding 18th Hole:

As for the golfing itself, the 18th hole at Rolling Fields is a real beauty, requiring genuine skill to par or birdie. You need a solid 200-yard drive to clear the water, and let me tell you, "picturesque" might as well be code for "you're gonna need extra balls." Despite the challenges (and the extra golf balls we donated to the water gods), the scenic views and undulating hills provided a stunning backdrop to our game.

All's Well That Ends Well

Overall, our day at Rolling Fields Golf Club was a blast. The locals were friendly, sharing tips and laughs in equal measure, and the staff was top-notch, making us feel welcome from start to finish. While Hollywood and I might not have broken any records (unless there's a record for most creative shot choices), we definitely left with plans to come back. Rolling Fields, you've got yourself a couple of new fans—just maybe keep an extra stock of golf balls for us next time.

]]> Sun, 26 May 2024 17:37:23 +0000 <![CDATA[Harmony Ridge Golf Club: "Swings, Misses, and Suds: A Sunny Day Out at Harmony Ridge Golf Club"]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=402 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=402
On a sunny Sunday late morning, my neighbor, "Hollywood" and I decided it was high time to hit the links, so we packed up the Noodles mobile, a "Willy's Wheeler" Wrangler and set our sights on Harmony Ridge Golf Club in Ambridge, PA. The journey started with a bit of a hiccup when Google Maps led us astray with a closed road, but after a scenic detour through Ambridge, a gas-up, Hollywood grabbing a donut, and me stocking up on Gatorade, we were back on track—beer had been packed beforehand, after all.

Arriving at Harmony Ridge, we were immediately struck by the friendliness of the service, especially at the Tiki Bar. With ice buckets of six beers for just ten bucks, we quickly realized that bringing our own brews next time might be unnecessary. The course itself, a 9-hole layout that doubles back with different tee boxes for those playing 18, was a delightful challenge. The variety, like hole No. 9 which plays as a par 3 on the front and a tough par 4 on the back, kept things interesting. Despite the tips sheet’s suggestion of a 365-yard drive over a tree for an eagle chance, Hollywood and I were more grounded in our golfing reality—those eagles were definitely not within our reach.

As the day progressed, the course got busier with new golfers teeing off and others looping back after the front 9. This made for a lively atmosphere, even allowing us to meet a group of youngsters around 12-14 years old, who kindly let us play through. The fairways were meticulously kept, and the small, well-protected greens made for challenging approaches, especially with my nemesis: slopes that seemed to steer my seemingly good shots off the fairways more often than not.

After navigating the hilly terrain and the tricky greens, both Hollywood and I were ready to retire our scorecards in flames, but Carly—known to us at AcrossPittsburgh as "Phoenix," one of our editors—was there to lift our spirits. Her offering of two hot dogs and a bag of chips for five bucks, alongside the coldest Yuengling beer, was the perfect salve for our bruised golf egos. We joked that we didn't catch any eagles on the course, but we certainly caught a couple printed on our beer cans.

All in all, despite the golfing challenges and our high scorecards, our day at Harmony Ridge was an absolute blast. It's the kind of place that calls you back, not just for the beautiful course and great deals but for the sheer joy of the game and the good company. Hollywood and I can’t wait to return, lose a few more golf balls, and maybe, just maybe, get a bit closer to those elusive eagles—on the course or on the cans.
]]> Thu, 02 May 2024 16:54:19 +0000 <![CDATA[Clover Hill Golf Course: 9-hole course perfect for a quick afternoon golf fix]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=390 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=390
 Last Thursday, me and my golfing pal decided it was high time to dust off the ol' clubs and give 'em a whirl at Clover Hill. Picture it: a windy but sun-soaked day, perfect for a bit of rust removal—both from the sky and our swings. Things were going swimmingly; we were neck and neck, enjoying the challenge, until we hit this seemingly innocent par 3. That's when the comedy started.

What looked like a straightforward pitch and putt turned into my personal snowman-building contest. My ball took a scenic tour into the woods, rolled down a hill, and when I tried to play hero with a blind shot uphill, I overshot and found myself on a repeat tour back down. 

This little adventure racked me up a solid eight on the scorecard. Despite the hiccup, I managed to find my rhythm later on, enough to keep up with my buddy, but the day's highlight was the post-game beer. Never has a drink tasted so good after such a wild ride on the greens. It was a day of laughs, a few face-palms, and a reminder that golf is as much about the mishaps as it is about the mastery. Cheers to that! 
]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2024 21:43:45 +0000 <![CDATA[LakeVue North Golf Course: LakeVue North Golf Course - Great Value and hidden gem north of Pittsburgh]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=388 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=388
LakeVue North is the spot in Pittsburgh if you're looking for a golf adventure that's easy on the eyes but tough on the scorecard. Picture this: me, trying to be a hero by fishing balls out of the water hazards instead of playing it smart with a drop. Sure, my score looked like I was counting in binary, but the views? Stellar. This place isn't just a feast for the eyes with its lush greens and sparkling waters—it's a full-course meal for your golfing spirit. Every swing’s a story, especially when you're deciding whether to play it safe or go for glory. What a day!

Diving into LakeVue North, the front nine rolls out the green carpet—long, wide-open fairways with a layout that's more inviting than a backyard BBQ. It's like they're saying, "Come on in, take your best shot!" Then, you hit the back nine, and it's like the course starts playing hard to get. 

Water hazards pop up like surprise guests, making you rethink your strategy at every turn. Amidst this watery maze, there's an old barn standing proud, adding a dash of historical charm to your game. After wrestling with the course's split personality, there's nothing like kicking back at the Nineteenth Hole. A few cold ones with the crew, laughing over the day's triumphs and tragedies—that's the real prize. Cheers to that!

And let me tell ya, running the show at LakeVue North is no joke—they've got their ducks in a row. As you meander from hole to hole, you'll spot friendly reminders to keep the pace, making sure everyone's game flows smoother than a well-oiled golf cart. It's like having a polite but firm golf marshal in sign form, nudging you along. Keeps the day moving and lets you enjoy every swing, putt, and, let's be honest, occasional mulligan, without feeling rushed. Just right for squeezing in all the fun without the wait.

LakeVue North Golf Course stands out for its meticulous maintenance and thoughtful design. It strikes a perfect balance between challenge and reward, making each round an engaging experience. With strategic hazards, historical charm, and signs ensuring a steady pace, it caters to golfers of all levels. The Nineteenth Hole offers a relaxing finish to a day on the greens. Considering the quality and the experience, it presents great value for the money.
]]> Fri, 29 Mar 2024 17:25:59 +0000 <![CDATA[Pittsburgh National Golf Club: Pittsburgh National Golf Club: A bit pricey for the play but nice]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=282 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=282
So, me and my buddy took a swing at the Pittsburgh National Golf Club this fine afternoon. Let's dish the dirt starting with the good stuff. The greens? Pristine. Fairways? Like walking on a well-groomed mustache. Bunkers, shrubs, and trees are placed with the kind of thought that would make a chess grandmaster nod in approval. The clubhouse is as snazzy as a new penny, and the pro shop's got more gear than a Pierogi Festival.

Now, onto the rough patches—literally. Transitioning from green to tee, you'd think you're trekking through a teenager's unkempt bedroom. Gravel, cracks, and nature run wild. For the premium greens fees, you'd expect the whole course to be as tidy as your grandma's living room. And finding the next tee box? It's like a scavenger hunt without the fun.

Had a bit of a run-in with a greenskeeper too. A misunderstanding on our part led to a lecture that felt more like getting scolded by an old-school headmaster than a heads-up from course staff. We crossed where we shouldn't have—our bad. But this fella, he came at us full tilt, threatening to shut down our carts and send us packing. All we could do was apologize and make a mental note to steer clear. But hey, here's to never crossing paths again—unless he switches greens, that is.
]]> Wed, 26 Jul 2023 22:08:02 +0000 <![CDATA[Rittswood Golf Course: Rittswood Golf Course: No Sand, No Water - No Problem]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=249 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=249
This golf course is truly a gem that offers exceptional value for the money. Despite not having sand bunkers or water hazards, the absence of these features doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment of a round of golf here. The fairways are meticulously maintained, providing a pristine playing surface, while the greens are kept in impeccable condition, ensuring a smooth and true roll of the ball. 

What sets this course apart is its versatility, catering to players of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you'll find the layout and design of the holes to be both challenging and rewarding. The course offers a wide range of hole designs, allowing each player to test their abilities without feeling overwhelmed. 

Not only is the course itself impressive, but the staff is also friendly and attentive. They are always ready to assist with any questions or concerns you may have about your game, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free experience. 

While some may consider the lack of certain amenities, such as on-site beer sales, as a drawback, it's important to note that this doesn't compromise the quality of the game. In fact, it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the pure joy of golf without distractions. Additionally, with numerous other courses in the area, you have the convenience of finding alternative options nearby that may provide different experiences.

Overall, I highly recommend adding this golf course to your list of must-play courses. It offers an outstanding golfing experience at an affordable price, with exceptional course conditions, friendly staff, and a focus on safety. Whether you're a local golfer or visiting the area, you won't be disappointed with the value and enjoyment this course provides.

]]> Mon, 26 Jun 2023 21:11:34 +0000 <![CDATA[North Park Golf Course: North Park Golf Course - Casual, Easy Going 18 Holes of Golf]]> https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=225 https://acrosspittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-area-golf-guide/golf-north-of-pittsburgh/discussions/review?id=225
As a weekend golfer with limited experience, I can't comment on the facilities at Allegheny County's North Park Golf Club compared to what seasoned golfers might expect. But despite my busy schedule with kids, home projects, work, and side hustles like writing for this website, I still manage to squeeze in some golf there. Working from home gives me the flexibility to enjoy this activity, although I hope my boss at my full-time job doesn't find out!

Now, let's talk about North Park Golf Course. It's not just any ordinary course—it's a hidden gem nestled in the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Conveniently located and offering great value for the money, it's a golfer's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this course has something for everyone.

Picture this: Wide-open fairways that give you plenty of room to unleash your swing, with minimal water hazards to dampen your spirits. It's a golfer's dream come true! And the best part? You'll meet a diverse group of golfers out here, ranging from novices to experts. Trust me, showing up as a single and getting matched with new playing partners can be a delightful surprise. I've met some incredible people who have made my golfing experience even more enjoyable.

As for the course itself, it's meticulously maintained, like a well-oiled machine. Despite its age, dating back to the 1930s, it still shines brightly. The pace of play used to be a concern, but fear not, they now offer tee times to ensure a smoother experience. No more agonizing waits before teeing off!

Now, let's talk about the front nine. While there might be a few bottlenecks, particularly on Par 3 No. 2, it gives you ample time to catch up on your messages - we'll leave it at that. But once you hit the back nine, the pace picks up, and you'll find yourself in the zone.

Thirsty? Don't worry, you can quench your thirst with an ice-cold beer available at North Park. Unfortunately, they don't allow you to bring your own, but hey, the snack shop has got you covered. Fuel up with a delicious hot dog at the turn, replenish your cart with a well-stocked beer cooler, and indulge in other drinks and snacks to keep you going.

To sum it up, North Park Golf Course is a hidden oasis for golf enthusiasts like us. It's a place where you can work on your game, make new friends, and enjoy the game you love. With its decent conditions, convenient location, and affordable prices, it's a hole-in-one choice for beginners and casual golfers alike. If you're looking for a spot to tee off near Pittsburgh, give North Park Golf Course a shot—I promise it's worth it!

]]> Wed, 14 Jun 2023 17:08:40 +0000