Tpc Harding Park

TPC Harding Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Francisco Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

TPC Harding Park is a storied municipal golf course in San Francisco, California, renowned for its blend of championship golf, historical significance, and scenic beauty along Lake Merced. Since opening in 1925, the course has evolved into a premier destination for both golf enthusiasts and visitors interested in San Francisco’s recreational and cultural heritage. TPC Harding Park’s rich legacy is marked by major tournaments, accessible facilities, and a commitment to community engagement. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know about visiting TPC Harding Park—from its historical evolution and cultural significance to practical visitor information, ticketing, accessibility, and local attractions.

For the latest updates and detailed visitor resources, consult the official TPC Harding Park website and the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department.

Historical Overview
Visiting TPC Harding Park: Key Information
Course Layout and Facilities
Notable Tournaments and Champions
Community Role and Local Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
Sources

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1925–1940s)

Established in 1925 and named for President Warren G. Harding, TPC Harding Park was conceived as a public, championship-caliber course. Designed by Willie Watson and Sam Whiting, it quickly became a pioneering example of accessible golf, offering San Francisco residents a venue that rivaled private clubs in prestige and quality (sfrecpark.org; golfaficionadomag.com). Its prime location alongside Lake Merced and thoughtful layout attracted both amateur and professional events, including early USGA National Public Links tournaments.

Professional Golf Ascendancy (1940s–1960s)

Harding Park emerged as a major stop on the professional circuit, hosting its first PGA TOUR event in 1944. Icons such as Byron Nelson, Gary Player, and Ken Venturi competed here, elevating the course’s profile. The addition of the Fleming 9 in 1961 expanded access, reinforcing its role as a hub for both elite and casual play (golfaficionadomag.com).

Decline and Community Use (1970s–1990s)

Budget cuts and deferred maintenance led to a period of decline, with the course even serving as a temporary parking lot during the 1998 U.S. Open at nearby Olympic Club (hoodline.com). Nevertheless, Harding Park remained a vital part of the community, hosting local tournaments and providing affordable access to golf.

Revitalization & Modernization (2000s–2010s)

A major restoration campaign in the early 2000s, championed by civic leaders and golf advocates, revitalized Harding Park. The course was lengthened, greens rebuilt, and facilities modernized to PGA TOUR standards (golfaficionadomag.com). This transformation allowed Harding Park to rejoin the professional circuit, hosting the WGC-American Express Championship (2005), Presidents Cup (2009), and joining the PGA TOUR’s TPC network in 2010 (sfrecpark.org).

Recent Milestones (2010s–2020s)

The 2020 PGA Championship and upcoming 2025 Presidents Cup cemented Harding Park’s status as a premier public golf venue. Its successful hosting of major events—including during the COVID-19 pandemic—demonstrated the course’s resilience, global appeal, and continued commitment to accessible championship golf (hardingpark.com).

Visiting TPC Harding Park: Key Information

Visiting Hours

TPC Harding Park is open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset. The pro shop operates from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tee times, especially on weekends or during tournaments, should be booked well in advance (TPC Harding Park Official Site).

Tickets and Green Fees

Green Fees: Rates vary by day and season. San Francisco Resident Cardholders pay the lowest rates (as low as $78), while non-residents can expect to pay up to $300 for 18 holes (sfrecpark.org; GolfLink). Discounts are available for juniors, seniors, and military personnel.
Booking: Reserve tee times online or by phone. Advance booking is strongly advised.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Location: 99 Harding Road, southwest corner of San Francisco, beside Lake Merced (TPC Harding Park).
Transport: Accessible by car (ample parking), Muni bus lines, and ride-share services. Downtown San Francisco is 20–30 minutes away.
ADA Compliance: The course and facilities are fully ADA-compliant, offering accessible carts, pathways, and restrooms (Klook).
Weather: San Francisco’s microclimate can bring fog and wind—dress in layers.

Guided Tours & Events

While regular guided tours are not standard, Harding Park offers group outings, corporate events, and charity tournaments. Check the official site for special event schedules and inquire at the pro shop for possible course tours during major tournaments.

Photographic Highlights

Key spots include the signature 18th hole (dramatic lakeside finish), back-nine views of Lake Merced, and the expansive clubhouse terrace. Sunrise and late afternoon offer optimal lighting for photography.

Course Layout and Facilities

Championship Course: 18 holes, 7,169–7,200 yards, par 72; renowned for cypress-lined fairways and classic parkland design (San Francisco Golf; Golf Course Gurus).
Fleming 9: Par-30, 9-hole course ideal for beginners and shorter rounds.
Practice Facilities: Driving range with Toptracer technology, two putting greens, chipping area, and six practice tees (Trustguide Amenities).
Clubhouse: 20,000-square-foot facility with pro shop, locker rooms, event spaces, and the Cypress Grille restaurant (TPC Harding Park).
Rental Clubs: Available, though bringing your own is recommended for quality and cost (GolfLink).

Notable Tournaments and Champions

Harding Park has hosted major golf events, including:

WGC-American Express Championship (2005): Tiger Woods, champion.
Presidents Cup (2009).
WGC-Cadillac Match Play (2015).
PGA Championship (2020).
San Francisco City Championship: The oldest continuously played municipal tournament in the U.S., since 1917 (AmateurGolf.com).

Past champions include Byron Nelson, Gary Player, Ken Venturi, Billy Casper, and Tiger Woods.

Community Role and Local Attractions

Civic and Cultural Impact

Harding Park represents San Francisco’s dedication to public recreation and inclusivity. The course offers discounted resident pricing, supports youth and community programs, and hosts public events such as the SF Pride Golf Tournament (sfstation.com; GolfPass).