Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announces opening of public golf courses for the 2026 season starting April 21

Monroe County, New York – Golfers across Monroe County are preparing to dust off their clubs as the 2026 season officially gets underway. County Executive Adam Bello confirmed that all three county-operated golf courses will reopen on Tuesday, April 21, marking the return of one of the region’s most popular warm-weather activities.

The reopening applies to the courses at Durand Eastman, Genesee Valley, and Churchville—each offering its own unique layout and experience. After months of winter dormancy, the greens are ready once again to welcome players of all levels, from casual weekend golfers to more seasoned enthusiasts eager to sharpen their game.

“Monroe County’s three affordable and accessible public golf courses add to the tremendous quality of life residents here enjoy throughout warmer months,” said County Executive Bello. “I encourage everyone, no matter your skill level, to take advantage of the warm weather ahead and hit the links.”

Read also: Dozens of special events set to bring music food and fun to Rochester Public Market throughout the entire year

The county’s golf facilities have long been considered a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in the area. At Genesee Valley, players can choose between two carefully maintained 18-hole courses, offering variety and challenge in equal measure. The site also includes a full grass driving range and the Calvin Peete Pitch & Putt practice area, which provides a more relaxed setting for beginners or those looking to fine-tune their short game.

Churchville Golf Course brings a different scale to the experience, with 27 holes designed for championship-level play. Golfers there will also find expansive practice areas, including putting and chipping greens, along with a driving range that allows for a full warm-up before heading out onto the course. It’s a destination that caters to both competitive play and casual rounds with friends.

Meanwhile, Durand Eastman offers a classic design rooted in the vision of renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Set within a scenic park environment, the 18-hole course combines natural beauty with a layout that challenges players to think strategically about each shot. For many, it remains one of the most picturesque places to play in the county.

Beyond standard rounds, the courses will host a wide range of activities throughout the season. Lessons, leagues, and tournaments are all part of the offering, giving players opportunities not just to play, but to improve and connect with others who share the same interest. For newcomers, lessons provide a welcoming entry point into the sport, while leagues offer a sense of routine and friendly competition.

Affordability remains a key focus for county officials. To make the courses accessible to as many residents as possible, discounted greens fees are available through free permits. These are offered to seniors aged 62 and older, active military members, veterans, youth aged 17 and under, and individuals with a physician-certified disability. Eligible residents can obtain these permits directly at the pro shops located at each course.

Read also: City of Rochester moves forward with major zoning code update aimed at guiding future growth and developmentFor those planning their first outing of the season, tee times can be reserved online, where additional information about season passes, gift cards, and package deals is also available. The county encourages golfers to plan ahead, especially during the early weeks of the season when demand tends to rise with improving weather.

Not everything, however, is immediately open. Officials noted that driving ranges at all three locations remain closed for now due to wet ground conditions. They are expected to open later, once the surfaces are dry enough to support regular use without damage.

Still, the reopening of the courses signals a broader seasonal shift. As temperatures climb and daylight stretches longer into the evening, outdoor spaces across Monroe County begin to come alive again. For many residents, stepping onto a golf course is more than just a game—it’s a way to reconnect with the outdoors, enjoy time with friends, and embrace the rhythm of spring.

With the 2026 season now set to begin, the county’s golf courses are once again ready to play their part in that experience, offering a mix of recreation, relaxation, and community that defines the months ahead.