Disclaimer: CountryClubMag.com is an independent resource and is not associated with any of the clubs on this website. Club initiation and membership cost information are estimates only and should not be relied upon for making club membership decisions.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the East Lake Golf Club is a private golf club with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1904. With a championship golf course, world-class amenities, and a commitment to philanthropy and community service, the East Lake Golf Club is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts and those looking for a premier dining experience.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the East Lake Golf Club, the famous tournaments it has hosted, its amenities, and more.
History & Founding
The East Lake Golf Club is a private golf club located in Atlanta, Georgia. It was founded in 1904 by Tom Bendelow and was later redesigned by the legendary golf course architect Donald Ross in 1913. The club’s founding members included some of the most prominent citizens of Atlanta, including Coca-Cola magnate Asa Griggs Candler. The course itself is built on the site of the old East Lake Country Club, which was established in 1893 and was the home of legendary golfer Bobby Jones.
Famous Golf Tournaments Held
The East Lake Golf Club has a rich history of hosting famous golf tournaments. In fact, it is the permanent home of the PGA Tour’s Tour Championship. This prestigious tournament is the final event of the FedEx Cup playoffs and is played by the top 30 golfers in the world. The tournament has been held at East Lake every year since 2004 and has seen some of the biggest names in golf compete on its challenging course. In addition to the Tour Championship, East Lake has also hosted the Ryder Cup in 1963 and the U.S. Women’s Amateur in 2000.
Estimate of Membership Cost and Dues
Joining the club can be a considerable investment, and the estimated cost to join varies depending on the type of membership one chooses.
One of the most popular membership options is the Full Golf Membership, which grants members access to the club’s 18-hole championship golf course, practice facilities, and clubhouse amenities. According to a 2018 article, the initiation fee for a Full Golf Membership is estimated at around $125,000 and a suggested $200,000 donation to the East Lake Foundation, with annual dues of an estimated $30,000. There is also a non-refundable food and beverage minimum of $1,500 estimate per year.
Another membership option is the National Membership, which grants members access to the club’s facilities for up to 12 rounds of golf per year. The initiation fee for a National Membership is reported to be $25,000, with annual dues of an estimated $5,000. There is also a non-refundable food and beverage minimum of $1,500 per year, sources say.
For those looking for a more social membership, the Social Membership grants members access to the club’s dining and social events. The ballpark initial fee for a Social Membership is $5,000, with annual dues reportedly $1,500. Members are also rumored to be required to meet a non-refundable food and beverage minimum of around $1,500 per year.
Amenities
Golf Course
East Lake Golf Club’s 18-hole championship golf course is consistently ranked among the top courses in the country. It was designed by Donald Ross in 1913 and has been host to numerous PGA Tour events, including the TOUR Championship.
Practice Facilities: The practice facilities at East Lake Golf Club include a double-sided driving range, a short game area, and a putting green. The facilities are available to members and their guests.
Clubhouse
The Georgian-style clubhouse at East Lake Golf Club was built in 1928 and has been restored to its original grandeur. It features a restaurant, bar, and private event spaces. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner menus with a focus on Southern cuisine.
Tennis Courts
East Lake Golf Club also has two Har-Tru clay tennis courts available to members and their guests. Tennis lessons and clinics are offered for all skill levels.
Fitness Center
The fitness center at East Lake Golf Club is equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and weight training equipment. Personal training and group fitness classes are also available.
Pool
The outdoor pool at East Lake Golf Club is a great place to relax and cool off during the summer months. The pool area features a large deck with lounge chairs and umbrellas. Food and beverage service is available.
Caddie Program
East Lake Golf Club offers a caddie program for members and their guests. Caddies are available to provide golfers with course knowledge and advice, as well as to carry their bags.
Event Information and Dining Options
The East Lake Golf Club offers a variety of event spaces for members to host private events, such as weddings, corporate meetings, and other special occasions. The club’s culinary team is led by Executive Chef Nick Oltarsh, who creates menus that feature the freshest seasonal ingredients and showcase the flavors of the South. The club offers multiple dining options, including the Founders Room, the Grill Room, and the East Lake Room, which all offer panoramic views of the golf course and the Atlanta skyline.
Dress Code and Guest Policy
As with many private clubs, the East Lake Golf Club has a strict dress code that must be followed by all members and their guests. In addition, guests must be accompanied by a member and are subject to the same dress code requirements.
Dress Code
On the Course: Collared shirts, slacks or shorts, and golf shoes with soft spikes are required for all players on the course. Metal spikes are not allowed.
In the Clubhouse: Business casual attire is required in the Clubhouse, with collared shirts and slacks for men and appropriate attire for women.
Guest Policy
- Guests are allowed to play at East Lake Golf Club only when accompanied by a member of the club.
- Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to play at the club.
- Guests are subject to the same dress code as members.
- Guests are not allowed to use the practice facility unless they are accompanied by a member.
- Members are responsible for the behavior of their guests while on the club’s property.
The East Lake Golf Club is a world-renowned golf destination with a rich history and a commitment to excellence. Its championship golf course has hosted some of the biggest names in golf, and its amenities are second to none. Although membership is highly exclusive and not publicly disclosed, the club’s dedication to philanthropy and community service is commendable. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just looking for a world-class dining experience, the East Lake Golf Club is a must-visit destination.
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I LOVED playing here!
I was lucky enough to be invited by a member. What an experience! An amazing course and even better atmosphere.
Disclaimer: CountryClubMag.com is an independent resource and is not associated with any of the clubs on this website. Club initiation and membership cost information are estimates only and should not be relied upon for making club membership decisions.