Is Oakmont a Good Spectator Golf Course? An In-Depth Look at the Challenges

Oakmont Country Club is renowned for its challenging layout and prestigious history, but when it comes to being a spectator-friendly venue, it has its drawbacks. While the course offers a few prime viewing locations, the layout and design often make it difficult for fans to get good views of the action, especially during major events like the U.S. Open.

Reasons Oakmont is Considered a Poor Spectator Golf Course

While Oakmont is one of the most famous golf courses in the world, it’s generally regarded as a less-than-ideal venue for spectators. Several factors contribute to this reputation, from the tight layout to the overwhelming crowds. Here's a closer look at why Oakmont can be a challenging course for fans:

• Limited Viewpoints: One of the biggest issues at Oakmont is the limited number of viewpoints available to spectators. The course’s design is traditional, with many of the holes running parallel to each other or winding through tight spaces. This layout often makes it difficult to see multiple holes at once, and there are fewer areas where fans can gather to get a great view of the action. With so many crowds, it can be challenging to position yourself in a good spot to see the players without obstruction.
• Crowd Density: Oakmont is a historic golf course, which means it attracts large crowds during events like the U.S. Open. However, the narrow fairways and tight design of the course lead to overcrowding. Spectators often find themselves packed together, unable to move freely or find space to watch the action. This density can detract from the overall experience, making it harder to enjoy the event comfortably. The sheer number of people also increases the difficulty of following specific players, especially if you're trying to get a good view of the greens.
• Herding to Boundaries: Because Oakmont’s design doesn’t lend itself well to crowd movement, spectators are often “herded” to the outer boundaries of holes. This results in large sections of the course where fans are forced to watch from a distance or are unable to follow specific players from hole to hole. Unlike courses with more open spaces and multiple viewing platforms, Oakmont’s spectators are more likely to find themselves restricted to certain areas, limiting their ability to follow the action closely.
• Lack of Creative Holes: While Oakmont is known for its challenging layout and difficulty, it’s not particularly known for the creativity of its holes from a spectator perspective. Many of the holes are relatively similar, making it hard for fans to pick standout moments or exciting viewing locations. The lack of visually stunning holes with easy access for fans diminishes the overall spectator experience.

Where is the Best Place to Watch the U.S. Open at Oakmont?

Despite the limitations of Oakmont as a spectator course, there are still a few prime spots where fans can enjoy the action during major events like the U.S. Open. The best place to watch is often considered to be the 17th green grandstand, offering an elevated view of the final stages of play. This location provides a chance to see the players approach the green and witness the excitement of putting on one of the course’s most challenging holes. If you're attending an event at Oakmont, make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot in the grandstand, as this area tends to fill up quickly.

Another option for spectators is the area around the first tee. While this area may not provide the best view of the entire course, it offers an up-close look at the beginning of each player’s round. The excitement of watching golfers step up to the tee and drive off is a thrilling experience, particularly for fans who want to feel the energy of the tournament’s start.

How Golf Carts Can Improve Your Experience at Oakmont

Given the tight layout and large crowds, using a golf cart to navigate Oakmont during a spectator event could be a great option. Golf carts allow you to quickly move from one area to another without worrying about the crowded paths or missing key moments of the action. With an electric golf cart, you can efficiently cover the course, ensuring you don't miss any of the excitement. Plus, the quiet, smooth operation of electric carts makes it easier to navigate the course without disturbing the natural surroundings or the other spectators.

Golf carts equipped with a Tara GPS system can also help you find the best spots for viewing by providing real-time location updates, allowing you to track the players’ positions and plan your route more effectively. Whether you're trying to catch a glimpse of your favorite player or simply move between the best viewing spots, using an electric golf cart can significantly enhance your experience at Oakmont.

Conclusion: The Challenges and Rewards of Spectating at Oakmont

Oakmont Country Club is undoubtedly a prestigious and historically significant course, but it doesn’t always offer the best experience for spectators due to its tight layout, limited viewpoints, and dense crowds. However, with the right strategy, you can still enjoy the action, especially if you position yourself in the grandstand near the 17th green or by the first tee. If you're attending an event at Oakmont, consider using an electric golf cart to enhance your mobility and viewing experience, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Despite its challenges, Oakmont remains a must-visit destination for any golf fan, offering a chance to witness high-level golf in one of the game’s most iconic settings.