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Welcome to The Aquidneck Club, nestled in the picturesque town of Portsmouth, Rhode Island. As you step onto our lush grounds, you’ll discover a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility, where rolling fairways meet breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round on our championship course, a family in search of premier amenities, or a couple looking for a romantic escape, The Aquidneck Club offers an unparalleled experience. Join us and indulge in luxury, leisure, and the timeless charm of coastal Rhode Island.

The Aquidneck Club History and Founding

The Aquidneck Club in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to 1922. Originally known as the Carnegie Abbey Club, it was founded by William Henry Vanderbilt II, a prominent member of the Vanderbilt family, and designed by renowned architect John Russell Pope.

Vanderbilt envisioned the club as a retreat for wealthy New Yorkers and Bostonians, offering them a place to golf, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of Narragansett Bay. He acquired a large parcel of land in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and commissioned Pope to design the clubhouse and golf course.

Pope, known for his grand and elegant designs, created a clubhouse that was inspired by English Tudor architecture. The building features a half-timbered exterior, stone chimneys, and gabled roofs. The interior is equally impressive, with wood-paneled walls, beamed ceilings, and large fireplaces.

The club went through several name changes over the years, eventually becoming known as the Aquidneck Club in 1995. In 2009, the club underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of a new spa and fitness center. The Aquidneck Club is a private club that offers its members a variety of amenities, including golf, tennis, swimming, sailing, and dining.

John Russell Pope was a prolific architect who designed some of the most iconic buildings in the United States, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., and the Jefferson Memorial. His designs are characterized by their classical proportions and use of traditional materials such as stone and brick.

Pope’s work on the Aquidneck Club is considered to be one of his finest achievements. The clubhouse is a beautiful and timeless example of Tudor Revival architecture, and the golf course is a challenging and enjoyable test for golfers of all skill levels.

Famous Golf Tournament held at The Aquidneck Club

The Aquidneck Club in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is a private golf course and doesn’t host any of the famous professional golf tournaments like the Masters, US Open, The Open Championship, or PGA Championship. However, it has been the venue for several prestigious amateur events, including the:

U.S. Senior Amateur Championship: Held in 2006, this championship saw golfers aged 55 and over compete for the title. It was won by the legendary Tom Kite.

NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championship: Held in 2019, this championship featured some of the top college golfers in the country. It was won by Methodist University.

New England Amateur Championship: Held annually since 1913, this championship is one of the oldest and most prestigious amateur events in the region. It has been held at The Aquidneck Club on several occasions, most recently in 2018.

In the past, The Aquidneck Club has hosted some notable events, including:

The U.S. Senior Open in 2002, was won by Tom Kite.
The CVS Charity Classic, a PGA Tour Champions event, from 2003 to 2007.
The Deutsche Bank Championship, a PGA Tour event, in 2009.

The Aquidneck Club is also scheduled to host the 2025 Ryder Cup, one of the most prestigious events in golf. This event will see teams from Europe and the United States compete in a match-play format. It is sure to be a major highlight for the club and the surrounding community.

The Aquidneck Club is a beautiful and challenging course that has received positive reviews from golfers of all levels. It’s a course worth checking out if you’re ever in the Portsmouth area.

The Aquidneck Club Membership Costs and Dues

Unfortunately, The Aquidneck Club is a private club and does not publicly disclose its membership costs and dues. However, based on information gathered from various sources, here’s an estimate:

Estimated Membership Costs:

Initiation Fee: Rumored to be between $50,000 and $250,000, depending on membership category.
Monthly Dues: Rumored to be between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on membership category.
Additional Fees: There may be additional fees for things like food, beverages, cart rentals, and other amenities.

Membership Categories:

Golf: Full access to the golf course, practice facilities, and other golf-related amenities.
House: Access to the clubhouse, pool, fitness center, and other social amenities.
Junior: Membership for children under the age of 25.
Social: Limited access to the clubhouse and social events.

It is important to remember that these are just estimates, and the actual costs may vary.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

The Aquidneck Club is a member-owned club, which means that members have a say in how the club is run.
The club has a waiting list for membership, so it may take some time to be accepted.
The club offers a variety of amenities and activities, so it is important to consider your needs and interests when deciding whether.

The Aquidneck Club Amenities

The Aquidneck Club offers a comprehensive array of amenities designed to cater to the diverse interests and preferences of its members. While specific offerings may vary, typical amenities at The Aquidneck Club include:

Championship Golf Course: A meticulously designed and maintained 18-hole golf course, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Clubhouse: A luxurious clubhouse serving as the social and recreational hub of the club, featuring fine dining options, lounges, and event spaces for gatherings and special occasions.
Tennis Courts: Well-appointed tennis facilities, allow members to enjoy friendly matches or participate in organized tournaments and clinics.
Fitness Center: A state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with modern exercise equipment, group fitness classes, and personal training services to support members’ health and wellness goals.
Swimming Pool: A sparkling swimming pool and sundeck area, offering a refreshing oasis for relaxation and recreation during the warmer months.
Spa and Wellness Services: Pampering spa services and wellness amenities, including massages, facials, and holistic treatments, to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Social Activities: A diverse calendar of social events, including cocktail parties, themed dinners, holiday celebrations, and cultural outings, fostering a sense of community among members and their families.
Youth Programs: Engaging youth programs and activities, such as junior golf clinics, tennis camps, and swimming lessons, designed to encourage participation and skill development among younger members.
Private Event Spaces: Elegant event venues and banquet facilities, ideal for hosting weddings, corporate meetings, and other special events with personalized service and attention to detail.
Concierge Services: Attentive concierge services assist members with reservations, travel arrangements, and other personalized requests to enhance their club experience.

The Aquidneck Club Event Information and Dining Options

The Aquidneck Club offers a diverse range of events and celebrations throughout the year, catering to the interests and preferences of its members. Here are some of the events you can celebrate at The Aquidneck Club:

Golf Tournaments: Participate in or spectate thrilling golf tournaments held regularly at the club, ranging from friendly member competitions to prestigious championship events.
Weddings and Anniversaries: Celebrate your special day in style with a picture-perfect wedding or anniversary celebration at The Aquidneck Club’s elegant event spaces, complete with personalized service and breathtaking views.
Holiday Gatherings: Enjoy festive holiday celebrations with family and friends, including lavish dinners, themed parties, and seasonal activities to mark occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
Family Fun Days: Create lasting memories with your loved ones at family-friendly events featuring activities like outdoor games, barbecues, pool parties, and children’s entertainment.
Wine Tastings and Pairings: Indulge in the finer things in life with wine tastings and pairing events hosted by expert sommeliers, showcasing a curated selection of wines from around the world complemented by gourmet cuisine.
Cultural and Arts Events: Immerse yourself in enriching cultural experiences with art exhibitions, music performances, guest speaker series, and other intellectually stimulating events held at the club.
Wellness Retreats: Rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with wellness retreats and workshops focused on fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and holistic health practices led by experienced professionals.
Member Socials: Connect with fellow members and build friendships at casual social gatherings, cocktail receptions, themed parties, and networking events designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie.
Corporate Functions: Host successful corporate events, meetings, and retreats at The Aquidneck Club’s sophisticated event spaces, equipped with modern amenities and tailored to meet the needs of businesses and organizations.
Educational Workshops: Expand your knowledge and skills with educational workshops, seminars, and lectures covering a wide range of topics, from personal finance and gardening to culinary arts and photography.

The Aquidneck Club offers a variety of dining options to cater to the discerning tastes of its members and guests. Here’s a glimpse into some of the dining options you can enjoy at The Aquidneck Club:

Clubhouse Dining: Experience fine dining in the elegant ambiance of the clubhouse dining room, where you can savor expertly crafted dishes made from the freshest seasonal ingredients. From gourmet entrees to decadent desserts, each meal is a culinary masterpiece designed to delight the senses.
Casual Fare at the Grill: For a more relaxed dining experience, head to the clubhouse grill, where you can enjoy casual fare and comfort classics in a laid-back setting. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, fresh salad, or hearty sandwich, the grill offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Terrace Dining: Take advantage of Rhode Island’s beautiful weather by dining al fresco on the outdoor terrace, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Whether it’s a leisurely brunch, romantic dinner, or sunset cocktails, the terrace provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion.
Private Dining: Host intimate gatherings and special occasions in one of The Aquidneck Club’s private dining rooms, where you can enjoy personalized service and customized menus tailored to your preferences. Whether it’s a family celebration, business meeting, or milestone event, the club’s dedicated staff will ensure every detail is taken care of.
Special Events and Tastings: Indulge in unique dining experiences with special events and tastings hosted at The Aquidneck Club throughout the year. From wine tastings and culinary showcases to themed dinners and holiday brunches, these events offer a chance to explore new flavors and cuisines in a fun and interactive setting.

The Aquidneck Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

The Aquidneck Club maintains a dress code and guest policy to ensure a respectful and enjoyable environment for all members and visitors. Here are the typical guidelines for both:

Dress Code:

Proper Golf Attire: When on the golf course or practice facilities, members and guests are expected to adhere to traditional golf attire standards. This typically includes collared shirts, tailored pants or shorts, and golf shoes with soft spikes. Denim, athletic wear, and swimwear are generally not permitted on the golf course.
Clubhouse Attire: In the clubhouse and dining areas, smart casual attire is usually required. This may include collared shirts, slacks or tailored jeans, skirts or dresses, and appropriate footwear. T-shirts, athletic wear, and beachwear are typically not permitted in these areas.
Formal Events: For special events and fine dining occasions, formal or semi-formal attire may be required. This could include suits, dresses, and other formal wear as appropriate for the occasion.

Guest Policy:

Member Sponsored Guests: Members are typically allowed to sponsor guests to accompany them at the club. The number of guests permitted and any associated fees may vary depending on membership level and club policies. Guests are expected to adhere to the club’s dress code and conduct standards.
Guest Registration: Members are often required to register their guests in advance of their visit to the club. This helps ensure smooth check-in procedures and compliance with club policies.
Reciprocal Club Privileges: Some country clubs may have reciprocal agreements with other private clubs, allowing members to access facilities and amenities at designated reciprocal clubs. Guests visiting under reciprocal agreements are usually subject to the host club’s guest policies and any associated fees.

The Aquidneck Club stands as a beacon of elegance, excellence, and camaraderie in the heart of Portsmouth, Rhode Island. With its championship golf course, luxurious amenities, and vibrant social atmosphere, the club offers a sanctuary where members and guests can escape, indulge, and connect.

Whether enjoying a round of golf, savoring gourmet cuisine, or celebrating special occasions, The Aquidneck Club provides an unmatched experience steeped in tradition, sophistication, and genuine hospitality. As a cherished destination for discerning individuals and families, the club continues to uphold its legacy of distinction, making every visit a memorable one.

The Aquidneck Club Portsmouth RI | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting