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Introduction
Finding the perfect country club is more than just choosing a place to play golf or dine; it's about selecting a community that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and interests. Maryland boasts a rich array of mid to high-end country clubs, each offering unique amenities, exquisite dining, and vibrant social atmospheres that cater to both individuals and families.
In this guide, we highlight some of the finest country clubs in the region, known for their exceptional service and commitment to quality. Whether you’re seeking a place to unwind after a long week, connect with friends, or engage in competitive sports, these clubs provide the perfect backdrop for an enriching social experience. Explore the offerings of these prestigious clubs and discover where your next adventure awaits!
OUR REGIONS TOP COUNTRY CLUBS
Baltimore Country Club
Location: Baltimore, MD
Overview: Established in 1898, Baltimore Country Club (BCC) is a prestigious private club offering a rich history and a vibrant membership experience. The club boasts two distinct locations: the historic Roland Park campus and the scenic Five Farms in Lutherville. BCC features two championship golf courses, including the renowned East Course designed by A.W. Tillinghast, which has hosted the U.S. Open and PGA Championship.
Amenities: Members enjoy upscale dining options, from casual grills to elegant dining rooms, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, and a robust social calendar with events throughout the year.
Engagement: BCC fosters a sense of community, hosting member-led activities and family-oriented events, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of sport and social engagement.
Website: www.bcc1898.com
2. Woodmont Country Club
Location: Rockville, MD
Overview: Founded in 1913, Woodmont Country Club has established itself as one of the premier country clubs in the area. With two championship golf courses, the North Course and the South Course, Woodmont is known for its challenging layouts and beautifully maintained greens.
Amenities: The club features a comprehensive wellness center, multiple dining venues, and a bustling social scene. With an emphasis on family-friendly activities, Woodmont offers youth programs and family events, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Engagement: Members appreciate the club’s welcoming atmosphere and commitment to providing a high-quality experience, making it an ideal setting for both relaxation and social interaction.
Website: www.woodmontcc.org
3. Chevy Chase Club
Location: Chevy Chase, MD
Overview: Established in 1892, Chevy Chase Club offers a blend of tradition and modernity, featuring a historic 18-hole golf course redesigned by Donald Ross in the 1920s. The club is known for its exceptional service and commitment to quality.
Amenities: Beyond golf, the club provides nine tennis courts, a swimming pool, and an array of dining options that range from casual to upscale. Members can also enjoy various social events and recreational programs.
Engagement: The club emphasizes building a strong community among members, with frequent social gatherings that foster friendships and connections.
Website: www.chevychaseclub.org
4. Talbot Country Club
Location: Easton, MD
Overview: Established in 1910, Talbot Country Club offers a picturesque 18-hole golf course that captures the beauty of the Eastern Shore. The club is known for its commitment to quality and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages family involvement and community engagement.
Amenities: In addition to golf, members can enjoy dining options featuring seasonal menus, social events throughout the year, and recreational activities like tennis and swimming. The club also hosts various tournaments and events that foster camaraderie among members.
Engagement: Talbot Country Club emphasizes creating memorable experiences, making it a perfect setting for both relaxation and social interaction. Members appreciate the club's active calendar of events and the opportunity to build lasting friendships.
Website: www.talbotcountryclub.org
5. Chartwell Golf & Country Club
Location: Severna Park, MD
Overview: Known for its stunning 18-hole golf course, Chartwell Golf & Country Club offers a unique blend of leisure and sport. The club emphasizes a family-oriented environment while providing exceptional golfing facilities.
Amenities: Members enjoy upscale dining, a swimming pool, and various recreational activities, making it a popular choice for families and social gatherings.
Engagement: The club hosts numerous social events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community among its members.
Website: www.chartwellgcc.org
6. Cattail Creek Country Club
Location: Glenwood, MD
Overview: Cattail Creek Country Club features a well-maintained 18-hole golf course, offering a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all levels. The club is known for its commitment to quality and member satisfaction.
Amenities: In addition to golf, Cattail Creek offers seven Har-Tru tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a modern fitness center. The dining options cater to a variety of tastes, providing casual and formal settings.
Engagement: The club emphasizes family-friendly activities and hosts social events that encourage member participation and community building.
Website: www.cattailcreekcc.org
7. Lakewood Country Club
Location: Rockville, MD
Overview: Lakewood Country Club is known for its family-friendly environment and a commitment to providing a high-quality experience. The club features an 18-hole golf course that is both challenging and enjoyable.
Amenities: Members have access to tennis courts, a swimming pool, and dining facilities that cater to various tastes. The club also offers a range of social events throughout the year.
Engagement: Lakewood fosters a community atmosphere, encouraging members to engage in club activities and build lasting friendships.
Website: www.lakewoodcc.org
8. Manor Country Club
Location: Rockville, MD
Overview: Manor Country Club features a championship 18-hole golf course designed to challenge players of all skill levels. The club emphasizes a relaxed and friendly environment.
Amenities: Members can enjoy multiple tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a variety of dining options. The club hosts numerous social events, providing opportunities for members to connect.
Engagement: Manor Country Club fosters a sense of community, making it an ideal location for both sport and social interaction.
Website: www.manorcc.org
9. Country Club of Maryland
Location: Towson, MD
Overview: This club features an 18-hole golf course designed by Herbert Strong, known for its challenging layout and beautiful surroundings. The club is dedicated to providing a high-quality experience for its members.
Amenities: The Country Club of Maryland offers fine dining, a swimming pool, and a full calendar of social events. Members appreciate the club's commitment to excellence.
Engagement: The club encourages member participation in events and activities, fostering a strong sense of community.
Website: www.countryclubofmaryland.com
10. The Country Club at Woodmore
Location: Mitchellville, MD
Overview: Known for its distinguished 18-hole golf course, The Country Club at Woodmore offers a premier golfing experience. The club is dedicated to maintaining high standards of service and amenities.
Amenities: Members can enjoy a full-service dining experience, tennis courts, and a family-friendly swimming pool. The club is also known for hosting various social events and activities.
Engagement: The club fosters a welcoming community, encouraging members to participate in events that enhance their overall experience.
Website: www.ccwoodmore.com
Comparative Analysis of Maryland's Country Clubs
Club Name | Golf Courses | Tennis Facilities | Swimming Pool | Dining Options | Social Events |
Baltimore Country Club | 2 Championship Courses (East and West) | 10 outdoor, 6 indoor courts | Yes, 3 pools | Upscale dining, casual options | Year-round events, member-led activities |
Woodmont Country Club | 2 Championship Courses | 8 courts (hard and clay) | Yes | Multiple dining venues | Family events, seasonal parties |
Chevy Chase Club | 1 Championship Course | 9 grass courts | Yes | Formal and casual dining | Family Fun Day, seasonal events |
Talbot Country Club | 1 Golf Course | Limited | Yes | Seasonal menus, casual dining | Various social events and tournaments |
Chartwell Golf & Country Club | 1 Golf Course | 4 courts | Yes | Upscale dining with views | Community events, themed parties |
Cattail Creek Country Club | 1 Golf Course | 7 Har-Tru courts | Yes | Casual and formal dining | Social gatherings, holiday events |
Lakewood Country Club | 1 Golf Course | 6 courts | Yes | Casual dining | Member mixers, holiday celebrations |
Manor Country Club | 1 Golf Course | 7 courts | Yes | Full-service dining | Social events throughout the year |
Country Club of Maryland | 1 Golf Course | Limited | Yes | Upscale dining | Active social calendar |
The Country Club at Woodmore | 1 Golf Course | 4 courts | Yes | Family-friendly dining | Various club events |
Key Features of Each Club
Baltimore Country Club
Two prestigious courses, including one designed by A.W. Tillinghast.
Offers extensive recreational facilities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, and a duckpin bowling alley.
Known for its vibrant community and year-round social events, catering to families and individuals alike
Woodmont Country Club
Renowned for its championship golf courses and a variety of tennis options.
Provides a comprehensive wellness center, promoting health and fitness for its members.
Hosts numerous family-oriented activities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all ages
Chevy Chase Club
Features a historic golf course with beautifully maintained grounds.
Offers top-notch dining options and recreational facilities, including a sparkling swimming pool.
Emphasizes community with a calendar full of social activities
Talbot Country Club
Provides a picturesque golfing experience with a focus on community and family engagement.
Amenities include dining options with a seasonal menu and various recreational activities.
Known for hosting social events and tournaments that enhance member participation
Chartwell Golf & Country Club
Offers stunning views from its dining facilities and a well-maintained golf course.
Active in hosting community events that foster a sense of belonging among members
Cattail Creek Country Club
Family-friendly environment with various activities and amenities, including tennis and swimming.
Regular social events that encourage member interaction and engagement
Lakewood Country Club
Focuses on providing a relaxed atmosphere with comprehensive recreational facilities.
Hosts social events that cater to a diverse membership
Manor Country Club
Features a well-maintained golf course and various social activities throughout the year.
A strong community focus with opportunities for members to connect
Country Club of Maryland
Offers an exclusive experience with upscale dining and an active social calendar.
Provides a welcoming environment for all members
The Country Club at Woodmore
Known for its elegant setting and comprehensive dining options.
Regularly hosts events that promote member interaction and socialization
Event Hosting
Many of our country clubs have elegant banquet facilities and experienced staff to handle weddings, corporate events, and private parties. This can enhance the appeal of the club for potential members who are also looking for venue options and also provide some gorgeous backdrop for your big day.
How to Join
Joining a country club typically involves a membership application process. Here’s a general outline based on information from various clubs:
Application Process: Most clubs require prospective members to fill out an application form. Some clubs may also require a sponsor—an existing member—to vouch for the applicant.
Tours and Interviews: Applicants are usually invited for a tour of the facilities and may have an interview with the membership committee to discuss their interests and expectations.
Initiation Fees and Dues: Membership fees can vary widely. For instance:
Talbot Country Club: Exact fees are often not disclosed publicly but are typically comparable to other clubs in the region
Chevy Chase Club: Initiation fees are approximately $80,000, with monthly dues around $7,000
Woodmont Country Club: Estimated initiation fee of $100,000 with monthly dues of $1,500
Types of Memberships: Clubs often offer various membership categories, including full golf, social, and junior memberships, catering to different needs.
Community Impact
Many country clubs in Maryland are deeply involved in their communities, contributing through various initiatives:
Charity Events: Clubs like Woodmont Country Club and Cattail Creek Country Club often host charity golf tournaments and fundraisers, supporting local charities and non-profits
Youth Programs: Several clubs offer junior golf programs and summer camps, promoting youth engagement in sports and fostering a love for the game
Sustainability Efforts: Many clubs emphasize sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices in course maintenance and club operations, contributing positively to the environment
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is becoming a focus for many country clubs as they strive to minimize their environmental impact:
Water Conservation: Some clubs, like Lakewood Country Club, have implemented irrigation systems that conserve water, using technology to monitor and optimize usage
Native Landscaping: Clubs may utilize native plants in landscaping to reduce water consumption and support local ecosystems. This practice is gaining traction among clubs looking to enhance biodiversity
Waste Reduction: Clubs often engage in recycling and composting initiatives, particularly in dining facilities, to minimize waste and promote sustainability
FAQs
Addressing common questions can help potential members feel more informed and comfortable about the joining process:
What should I expect on my first visit?
Most clubs provide a warm welcome and orientation for new members, including a tour of the facilities and introductions to staff and fellow members
Are there age restrictions for membership?
Many clubs have specific junior programs but generally welcome members of all ages
Can I bring guests?
Most clubs allow members to bring guests, often with specific rules or limitations regarding guest fees
What amenities are included in the membership?
Amenities vary by club, but typically include access to golf, tennis, swimming, and dining facilities