Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course is currently undergoing a significant transformation. For the 2026 season, the main 18-hole golf course is closed to the public to facilitate extensive renovation and construction projects. However, golfers in the Greater Boston area can still utilize the driving range, which remains operational throughout the 2026 season. The full course is tentatively scheduled to welcome players back in 2027 with modernized infrastructure and improved turf conditions.

Located in Weston, Massachusetts, along the scenic banks of the Charles River, this municipal gem holds a unique place in New England golf history. While it has faced criticism in recent years regarding its maintenance standards, the current state-led initiative aims to restore the course to its former glory, honoring its pedigree as a Donald Ross design.

The 2026 Renovation: Why the Course Is Closed

The decision to close Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course for the 2026 season was not made lightly. For years, the facility, managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), has been a topic of intense discussion among local golfers.

Addressing the "Worst Course" Reputation

In 2024 and 2025, several national golf review platforms and local news outlets labeled the course with the unfortunate title of one of the "worst-maintained public courses" in the country. Players frequently reported uneven fairways, sparse grass on tee boxes, and greens that struggled with consistency. These issues were largely symptomatic of an aging irrigation system and the high foot traffic that comes with being one of the most affordable public options near Boston.

The state responded by initiating a multi-million dollar capital improvement plan. The centerpiece of this project is a brand-new, state-of-the-art irrigation system. The previous infrastructure was decades old and unable to provide the precise moisture control required for modern bent grass greens. By installing a new system, the maintenance team will have the tools needed to maintain lush, resilient turf even during the heat of mid-summer.

Ongoing Turf Management Practices

While construction is the primary focus in 2026, the DCR has already begun a series of aggressive turf health practices that will continue throughout the closure. These include:

  • Core Aeration: Relieving soil compaction to allow oxygen and nutrients to reach the root zone.
  • Topdressing: Applying a layer of sand to smooth the surface and improve drainage.
  • Deep-Tine Aeration: Reaching deeper into the soil profile to break up hardpan layers.
  • Overseeding: Introducing newer, more disease-resistant strains of grass to the fairways and greens.

Historical Legacy: The Donald Ross Signature

One cannot discuss Leo J. Martin without acknowledging its architectural heritage. Opened in 1930, the course was designed by Donald Ross, arguably the most influential golf course architect in American history. Ross, a Scotsman who settled in nearby Rhode Island, is the mastermind behind legendary tracks like Pinehurst No. 2 and Oak Hill.

Designing for the Charles River Basin

The layout at Leo J. Martin reflects Ross’s philosophy of working with the natural contours of the land. Situated in the Charles River basin, the course features gentle elevation changes and strategic routing that forces players to consider the wind and the river's proximity.

Ross was known for his "crowned" or "inverted saucer" greens. While decades of wear and tear have softened some of these features at Leo J. Martin, the fundamental skeletal structure of a Ross masterpiece remains. The 2026 renovation aims not just to fix the grass, but to protect the integrity of this 1930s layout, ensuring that the strategic challenges intended by Ross are preserved for future generations.

Detailed Course Statistics and Layout

Before the closure, Leo J. Martin was known as a challenging Par 71 (or 72 depending on the scorecard version) that rewarded accuracy over raw power. The course measures approximately 6,240 yards from the back tees, a length that remains relevant today due to the strategic placement of hazards.

Tee Information and Ratings

The course offers multiple sets of tees to accommodate different skill levels:

  • Blue Tees: 6,240 yards | Rating: 69.2 | Slope: 116
  • White Tees: 6,060 yards | Rating: 68.1 | Slope: 113
  • Red Tees: 5,150 yards | Rating: 64.2 | Slope: 104

The Front Nine: Precision and Strategy

The front nine at Leo J. Martin is often considered the more technical half of the course.

  • Hole 1 (Par 4, 325 yards): A relatively gentle opener that requires a straight drive to avoid the trees lining the fairway.
  • Hole 4 (Par 5, 535 yards): The longest hole on the front side. It tests a player's ability to navigate a long fairway while preparing for an approach into a green that historically requires a high, soft landing.
  • Hole 5 (Par 3, 150 yards): A classic Ross short hole. While the distance is manageable, the green is well-protected, making a "3" a respectable score.
  • Hole 9 (Par 4, 275 yards): A driveable par 4 for long hitters, but fraught with risk. The conservative play is a long iron or hybrid to the center of the fairway, leaving a short wedge into the green.

The Back Nine: Length and Drama

The back nine offers more intrigue, with several holes featuring significant doglegs and views of the Charles River.

  • Hole 13 (Par 4, 410 yards): A demanding par 4 that requires a strong tee shot to have a clear view of the green.
  • Hole 16 (Par 5, 540 yards): The signature marathon hole. This par 5 demands three well-executed shots to reach the green in regulation. It often plays into the prevailing wind, making it feel even longer.
  • Hole 18 (Par 5, 570 yards): A dramatic finish. As one of the longest holes in the region, the 18th ensures that matches aren't decided until the final putt drops.

The Driving Range: Your 2026 Practice Hub

While the greens are off-limits, the Leo J. Martin driving range remains one of the most popular practice facilities in the Greater Boston area. For the 2026 season, it serves as the primary point of contact for the local golfing community.

Facilities and Services

The range features numerous hitting bays and is known for its wide landing area, allowing golfers to track their ball flight accurately.

  • Instructional Programs: Historically, "The Golf Academy at Leo J. Martin" has operated here. Professional lessons and clinics are often available, providing a great opportunity to fix a slice or improve swing mechanics while the course is under renovation.
  • Pro Shop and Equipment: The on-site pro shop provides essential gear, including balls, tees, and gloves. Rental clubs are typically available for those who are just starting out or traveling without their bag.
  • Affordability: True to its municipal roots, the bucket prices at Leo J. Martin remain some of the most competitive in the Weston and Waltham area.

Winter Transformation: The Weston Ski Track

Leo J. Martin is famous for its "dual life." As the golf clubs are put away for the winter, the course transforms into the Weston Ski Track. This is a commercially operated cross-country ski facility that utilizes the wide-open fairways to create miles of groomed trails.

Snowmaking Capabilities

One of the reasons the ski track is so successful is its snowmaking ability. Even when the rest of Boston is looking at bare ground, the staff at the ski track can produce enough man-made snow to keep the trails open. This makes it a vital resource for Nordic skiers, high school racing teams, and fitness enthusiasts during the cold months.

Amenities for Skiers

During the winter, the clubhouse serves as a base for skiers, offering:

  • Equipment rentals (Skis, boots, poles).
  • Lessons for beginners.
  • Refreshments and a warm place to rest between loops.

The transition between golf and skiing is a carefully choreographed dance. The DCR ensures that the heavy equipment used for grooming ski trails does not damage the delicate golf turf underneath, though the 2026 renovations may alter the specific trail layout temporarily as construction zones are bypassed.

Practical Visitor Information

If you are planning to visit the driving range or are looking ahead to the 2027 reopening, here are the essential details for Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course.

Location and Accessibility

  • Address: 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA 02493.
  • Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with designated parking near the clubhouse. The DCR also provides specialized adaptive golf carts (ParaGolfer and SoloRider) for golfers with mobility impairments, reflecting a commitment to inclusive recreation.

Rules and Etiquette

To maintain the quality of the facility, the following rules are strictly enforced:

  • Dress Code: Proper golf attire is required. No tank tops, no cut-off shorts, and no work boots are permitted on the range or the course.
  • Coolers: Private coolers are prohibited.
  • Cart Usage: When the course is open, carts must remain on designated paths to protect the turf.

Pricing and Value

Leo J. Martin has long been celebrated for its affordability. Historically, 18-hole green fees have ranged from $27 on weekdays to $30 on weekends. While these prices may see a slight adjustment after the high-end renovations are complete in 2027, the course remains committed to being a budget-friendly option for the public.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Leo J. Martin Golf Course open right now?

The 18-hole golf course is closed for the 2026 season for renovations. It is expected to reopen in 2027. The driving range, however, is open for practice during the 2026 season.

Who designed the Leo J. Martin golf course?

The course was designed by the legendary architect Donald Ross and originally opened in 1930.

Can I still go cross-country skiing there in the winter?

Yes, the facility typically operates as the Weston Ski Track during the winter months, offering groomed cross-country ski trails and snowmaking.

What are the 2026 driving range hours?

Hours can vary based on the season and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the official Massachusetts DCR golf website or call the clubhouse at (781) 894-4903 for the most current daily schedule.

Why is the course being renovated?

The renovation is aimed at upgrading the aging irrigation system and improving turf conditions after the course received poor rankings in recent years. The goal is to provide a premier municipal golfing experience that honors its historical layout.

Summary of the 2026 Outlook

The closure of Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course in 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter for this historic Weston landmark. By addressing long-standing infrastructure issues—most notably the irrigation and turf quality—the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is investing in the long-term viability of public golf in the region.

While the temporary loss of 18 holes of play is a disappointment for regulars, the continued availability of the driving range ensures that the facility remains a hub for practice and instruction. When the gates swing open for the full course in 2027, players can expect a revitalized Donald Ross experience that balances historical integrity with modern playing standards. Whether you are a scratch golfer looking to hone your skills on the range or a winter athlete waiting for the snow to fly, Leo J. Martin continues to be a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in the Greater Boston area.