Most avid golfers would love to play the site of the 2024 U.S. Open, the sadistically designed Pinehurst No. 2, but while it is open to the public, it's a pricey venue. But let's say that the course is on your bucket list, and you're willing to fork over a serious wad of cash. How can you play No. 2 for the least money possible?
Let's explore the options.
First, you need to know that the only way to play the diabolical course is to stay at least 2 nights at a Pinehurst resort property, which gets you tee times. (You can play courses Nos. 1, 3, 5, or The Cradle without staying at the resort, by calling 1 day in advance to see if you can get on.) If you want to play No. 2 and stay on a weekend, you'll need to book at least 3 nights.
Pinehurst offers several package deals that combine lodging, some meals, and golf. Least expensive is the Bed & Breakfast Package, which (of course) only offers breakfast during your stay and only 2 rounds of golf. You can get dinners as well, and 3 rounds of golf, by opting for the Donald Ross Package. Both packages allow you to play golf once per day.
The season matters
If you're dead set on playing during the peak seasons (spring or fall), here's the lowest amount that you'll spend:
Donald Ross Package, weekday, least expensive lodging: $1,688 per person (double occupancy).
Breakfast and dinner included.
3 rounds of golf included.
Extra fee for playing No. 2: $250.
Caddie fee + recommended tip: $140
TOTAL: $2,078 (works out to $693 per round)
And that doesn't include other possible necessities, like airfare and a rental car.
Save a little if you can stand the heat
Summer is not peak season, since it can be uncomfortably hot. But if that doesn't put you off, here's what you'll pay:
Donald Ross Package, weekday, least expensive lodging: $1,486 per person (double occupancy).
Breakfast and dinner included.
3 rounds of golf included.
Extra fee for playing No. 2: $250.
Caddie fee + recommended tip: $140
TOTAL: $1,876 (works out to $625 per round)
Go off-season for best prices
It gets considerably more reasonable if you play during the winter months. In February, you might be playing in 50- to 60-degree weather, so it's not a crazy idea. Here's what you'll pay:
Donald Ross Package, weekday, least expensive lodging: $788 per person (double occupancy).
Breakfast and dinner included.
3 rounds of golf included.
Extra fee for playing No. 2: $250.
Caddie fee + recommended tip: $140
TOTAL: $1,178 (works out to $393 per round)
Play 2 rounds instead of 3
To get your bill any lower, you'll have to opt for the Bed & Breakfast Package, which includes 2 rounds of golf and 2 nights of lodging. Here's what you'll pay:
Peak spring or fall: $1,720 (works out to $860 per round)
Summer: $1,544 ($772 per round)
Winter: $934 ($467 per round)
While playing Pinehurst is anything but cheap, at least it's not as expensive as Pebble Beach!
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