You scored tickets to the biggest event in the golf-world. Now what? Luckily, Discover Long Island has you covered. Learn how to get there, who’s who, important travel resources and where to explore beyond Bethpage Black. Whether you’re rooting on Team USA or Team Europe, Long Island extends a warm welcome. Build your dream golf vacation on Long Island for the 2025 Ryder Cup with this all-inclusive guide.
Choose Your Team
Team USA heads into the Ryder Cup under the leadership of captain Keegan Bradley, who made the notable decision not to include himself on the Ryder roster. Bradley himself has key ties to the region, as he attended at played golf at St. John University, just under and hour from Bethpage Black. Leading the charge on the roster is World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who secured the first automatic spot after a successful season featuring five PGA Tour victories. He’s joined by fellow automatic qualifiers J.J. Spaun, Xander Schauffele, Russell Henley, Harris English, and Bryson DeChambeau. Captain Bradley, with his six captain’s picks, then selected Justin Thomas, Ben Griffin, Collin Morikawa, Cameron Young, Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns to complete the 12-man team.
Did you know? Cameron Young is from Scarborough, New York, about an hour from Bethpage, and has an unmatched connection with Bethpage Black. In 2017 he became the first amateur to win the New York State Open, held on the Black Course, tying a then-course record by finishing the final round with a 64.
Team Europe welcomes returning captain Luke Donald, who led the team to victory two years ago in Rome. Automatic qualifiers include Rory McIlroy, Robert MacIntyre, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton and Rasmus Hojgaard. Donald then went on to selected Matt Fitzpatrick, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, Sepp Straka, Ludvig Aberg, and Jon Rahm.
Did you know? The 2025 Europe Ryder Cup team is the exact lineup of the 2023 Europe Ryder Cup team, except for one player - Rasmus Hojgaard is a new addition, replacing his twin, Nicolai, who played on the 2023 team.
Getting There
Making your way to Long Island is simple, thanks to our proximity to NYC airports, like JFK International and LaGuardia Airport, and also local airport, Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP). The Long Island Rail Road is easily accessible from NYC transit hubs Penn Station and Grand Central Station, and provides seamless west/east travel between NYC - all the way to Montauk and Greenport (Long Island’s easternmost points), with numerous stops in between.
There are several options for day-of transportation to Bethpage Black, but also strict rules that attendees need to follow. See which option works best for you:
By Train via Long Island Rail Road: Take the LIRR to Farmingdale Station. There are free shuttles to Bethpage State Park. Buy tickets digitally via the MTA TrainTime app, or on-site at your starting train station via touch-screen kiosks,or in-person ticket booths.
Did you know? The LIRR is offering a Ryder Cup Special Ticket, allowing unlimited train travel through the duration of the tournament. This offer is only available in-person at ticket booths.
Drive: Visitors cannot drive directly to the venue, they must drive and park at Jones Beach State Park, and then take a 30-minute shuttle ride to Bethpage State Park. Drivers must purchase a parking pass in advance via SeatGeek. Drive responsibly; Overnight parking is prohibited.
Rideshare: To skip the shuttles, visitors can use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. The drop-off/pickup location is 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd.
ADA/Handicap Parking: Those who require handicap access are encouraged to park at SUNY Farmingdale State College and then take the free shuttle to the venue. A valid handicap placard is required for access.
Walk: Walk-ins must go to Gate 4 via Thomas Powell Blvd. Bicycles and skateboards are prohibited.
Beyond the Green
Your Ryder Cup experience doesn’t have to stop at the 18th hole. Suffolk County and the greater Long Island region is home to vibrant downtowns filled with walkable charm, boutique shopping, and incredible food scenes. Not sure where to start? Check out our recent blogs for insider information on Long Island downtowns such as Northport, Huntington, Patchogue, Riverhead and more. Each town has its own distinct character so try to explore more than one! Dining recommendations are found throughout, and also in this blog: Tee Up Your Tastebuds: Where To Dine Near Bethpage During the Ryder Cup.
While Bethpage Black, a public course, is the star of the show, golf lovers can find more than 50 public courses across Long Island. Play at Montauk Downs State Park out east, a course known for its stunning views and challenging, ever-changing wind patterns. Or head to Timber Point Golf Course, a scenic course along the water offering 27 holes of difficult play.
Looking for more golf course options? We have you covered. Visit DLI’s Golf page.
Don’t be afraid to stray off the golf course while you’re here and mix more adventure into your trip. September is the perfect time to explore Long Island’s famous beaches, like Coopers Beach and Main Beach in the Hamptons, visit historic landmarks, or enjoy Long Island Wine Country in full swing on the North Fork.
Plan Like a Pro
Make the most of your Ryder Cup trip and use the Discover Long Island Ryder Cup App, no download required. It’s your pocket-size guide to everything from real-time transit info to local hotspots.
Visit the Discover Long Island website for more trip inspiration, event updates, and insider tips to help build the ultimate Long Island itinerary!
