ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
East Lake is the home course of legendary golfer Bobby Jones and annually hosts the culminating event of the PGA TOUR Playoffs for the FedEx Cup.
About
East Lake Golf Club, established in 1904 and designed originally by Tom Bendelow with later revisions by Donald Ross and Andrew Green, is Atlanta’s oldest and most storied golf course. Renowned as the home club of Bobby Jones, it is celebrated both for its championship history and its philanthropic mission, hosting the PGA TOUR’s TOUR Championship annually.
Caddie Tip
Positioning off the tee is crucial—many holes require thoughtful placement rather than sheer distance. Greens are fast and subtly contoured, so favor approach shots below the hole. Pay close attention to pin locations, and take time to study each green’s slope and speed to avoid three-putts.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge at East Lake is the demanding green complexes—fast Bermuda surfaces with subtle breaks—paired with tight fairways and penal bunkering. Precision approach play is mandatory, especially during tournament conditions when the course is set up to test the world’s top professionals.
The Good
Golfers love the championship pedigree and the pristine conditions at East Lake. The course’s storied history, association with Bobby Jones, and hosting of the TOUR Championship create a uniquely inspiring atmosphere, while the restoration work honors its classic architectural roots and strategic challenge.
The Not So Good
Some members and guests wish for improvements in pace of play during high-profile tournament weeks, and others note that the urban location can occasionally make for congested access. Some also mention that the course’s intense difficulty from the back tees can limit broader enjoyment.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The par-5 18th hole is a dramatic finishing hole playing uphill towards the iconic clubhouse. It demands a strategic tee shot to avoid the fairway bunkers, and the approach is challenged by a narrowing landing area and treacherous green. This hole has witnessed many Tour Championship-winning moments and exemplifies East Lake’s demanding test.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse at East Lake features historic displays honoring Bobby Jones, several dining options with gourmet selections, locker rooms, event spaces, and full catering for private functions. Members enjoy personalized service in both casual and formal settings and access to club events.
Practice Facilities
East Lake offers a world-class practice facility with a large driving range, dedicated short game area, bunker practice, and multiple putting greens. Instruction and clinics are available, and juniors have access to the East Lake Junior Golf Academy on site.
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.
.avif)
.png)
.png)
