ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
Wissahickon is one of the only U.S. courses with a historic Reading Railroad running through the property, and the course is named after the adjacent Wissahickon Creek, from the Lenape word for 'Catfish Stream.'
About
Philadelphia Cricket Club’s Wissahickon Course is an A.W. Tillinghast masterpiece opened in 1922. Fully restored in 2013–14 by Keith Foster, the course showcases classic parkland architecture and strategic greens. Wissahickon has hosted several major events, including a PGA Tour signature event and the Senior Players Championship. The course is renowned for its bold bunkering, rich history, and championship pedigree.
Caddie Tip
Keep your approaches below the hole—Wissahickon's greens are famously fast and complex, and putting from above the cup makes two-putts difficult. Map out your round to attack certain pins conservatively, and pay close attention to subtle breaks. On par-5s, lay up short of bunkers for clear angles.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect of Wissahickon is navigating its multi-tiered, bold greens at stimp speeds of 12+. Putting is a major test, with few straight putts and severe slopes. The final four holes are long and require accurate drives and approaches—mistakes here are punished, especially under tournament conditions.
The Good
Golfers rave about the strategic variety and the world-class greens, which demand imagination and skill to master. The walk through mature trees and historic corridors gives every round a sense of tradition, and the recent restoration preserved Tillinghast’s original vision, making it a favorite among architecture fans.
The Not So Good
Some players note the greens can get extremely fast, bordering on severe for higher-handicap golfers. The course’s difficulty may be intimidating for average players, and private-only access limits opportunities for broader play. The closing stretch is particularly demanding and can be punishing late in a round.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The par-4 18th at Wissahickon is a demanding finishing hole that plays uphill with a slight dogleg. The approach is guarded by classic Tillinghast bunkering and a subtly sloped green that demands precise distance control, especially with a challenging back pin. The green’s undulations make finishing with a par a true accomplishment.
Clubhouse
The main clubhouse blends historic character with modern luxury—expect elite dining, locker rooms, lounge spaces, pro shop, and event spaces. Members enjoy a full-service experience with seasonal outdoor terraces, attentive staff, and a traditional private club standard. Banquet and meeting facilities are also available.
Practice Facilities
The club offers one of the region's top practice facilities, featuring a two-tiered range, short game area, ample grass stations, and dedicated instruction zones. Members can practice from dawn to dusk during the season. The setup is ideal for sharpening every aspect of your game before a round.
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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