ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
Congressional has hosted three U.S. Opens and a PGA Championship, and was a preferred club for Presidents and dignitaries for over a century.
About
The Blue Course at Congressional Country Club, originally designed by Devereux Emmet and most recently overhauled by Andrew Green, stands as a premier championship venue. Known for its brawny layout, medium-wide fairways, modern strategic bunkering, and outstanding conditions, this storied club near Washington, D.C. has hosted multiple major championships, including several U.S. Opens and a PGA Championship.
Caddie Tip
Keep your drives in play; rough is punishing and approach angles are vital given the size and contour of the greens. Approach shots tend to run out, especially on firm days, so favor the safe side. Pay special attention to pin positions, as misreading green sections can easily lead to three putts.
The Main Challenge
The course is relentless from the back tees, with long forced carries, deep bunkering, multi-section greens, and a back nine where water hazards and length create decisive risk-reward moments. Recovery shots are difficult and scoring demands patience, discipline, and the ability to hit every club in the bag.
The Good
Golfers love the championship pedigree, strategic bunkering, pure bentgrass greens, and sense of history that infuses every round at Congressional. Playing where major titles have been won and lost, and walking in the footsteps of legends, creates an atmosphere hard to match anywhere in the region.
The Not So Good
While recent redesigns have greatly improved playability and turf quality, some members have commented on aspects of course aesthetics feeling artificial compared to classic parkland layouts. The exclusivity also means it’s largely inaccessible to non-members and doesn’t foster a broad golf community.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole, a par 4, is a dramatic and challenging finisher requiring a precise drive and a confident approach over water to a well-guarded green. The closing stretch is renowned for producing memorable championship moments, and the amphitheater setting has witnessed some of golf’s most celebrated finishes in major championship history.
Clubhouse
Congressional boasts the largest clubhouse in the United States with several restaurants, grand ballroom, spa, fitness center, multiple pools, bowling alley, tennis and paddle facilities, luxurious locker rooms, and overnight accommodations for members and guests.
Practice Facilities
Expect a world-class practice range with target greens, a comprehensive short game area, multiple chipping and putting greens, and professional-level instruction available. Facilities host elite-level tournaments and are kept in pristine shape, rivaling the on-course experience.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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