Philadelphia’s love affair with golf runs deep, and the 2026 PGA Championship is set to add another unforgettable chapter to that storied history. This time, all eyes are on Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania—just a short drive west of the City of Brotherly Love—as it hosts the major championship for the second time.
So, what makes the greater Philadelphia area such a special place for golf? Let’s tee off with some fascinating facts that every fan should know.
The Wanamaker Trophy’s Philadelphia Roots
The iconic Wanamaker Trophy, awarded to the PGA Championship winner, was the brainchild of Rodman Wanamaker. His family launched the legendary Wanamaker department stores in Philadelphia back in 1876. Lewis Rodman Wanamaker went on to help establish the PGA of America—the first all-professional golf association in the U.S.—and donated the trophy for the very first PGA Championship in 1916. That trophy? It’s been the ultimate prize in major championship golf ever since.
A Club with Centuries of History
The Philadelphia Cricket Club in Chestnut Hill, founded in 1854, is a true gem. It hosted the PGA Tour’s 2025 Truist Championship and its St. Martins course was the site of the U.S. Open in 1907 and 1910. But here’s the real standout: it’s the only golf club in the United States with three 18-hole courses, each built in a different century. That’s a legacy stretching from the 1800s to today.
Aronimink’s Return to the Spotlight
Aronimink Golf Club is no stranger to big moments. With its classic Donald Ross design, the course has long been a favorite among players and fans alike. From the challenging 18th hole to the scenic views around the clubhouse, every corner of this course tells a story. The 2026 PGA Championship will be another proud chapter for a club that has already seen its share of golf history.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the game, Philadelphia’s golf heritage is something to celebrate. And with the PGA Championship coming to Aronimink, there’s never been a better time to grab your gear and get inspired by the sport’s rich past and exciting future.