Reason to play » For a trip down memory lane for longtime Northern Virginians who remember this course being on the outer edge of the suburbs, but now is smack in the middle of bustling Herndon. Inexpensive, convenient, well-conditioned, minimally-challenging course suits walkers, women and beginners.


JJ Deli » The most compelling reason to visit Herndon is JJ Deli, a barbecue joint located inconspicuously in the clubhouse. Owner Jeff Johnson cooks pork and beef in a smoker, just off the ninth green, defying players not to stop in at the turn. The specialty is pulled pork with slaw and the owner’s homemade barbecue sauce. Despite its odd location, JJ is popular enough to attract non-golfers during lunchtime and carry-out business.

Best hole » No. 11, Par 4, 410 yards

The longest par 4 on the course is a severe dogleg left. Play safe with a utility club to the middle of the fairway, leaving a long or mid-iron to green, or gamble with a high drive over trees to reduce yardage and set up a wedge to a green that slopes hard from back to front.

Signature hole » No. 1 » Par 4 » 404 yards

With busy Ferndale Avenue on the left side, an open driving range on the right, a putting green just off the tee, and the starter in a cart, a chip shot from the blue tees, this hole screams “municipal golf.” But that’s the charm of Herndon. Only course in Washington area with a similar muni feel is funky RedGate, in the City of Rockville.

Prettiest hole » No. 15, Par 5, 482 yards

All three of Herndon’s par 5 holes, none longer than 509 yards, can be reached in two shots. This is the shortest, but toughest of the trio, with tall trees lining the narrowest fairway on the course.


Splitsville » Herndon Centennial comes in two distinct halves. On both nines, players traverse a bridge that crosses over Herndon Parkway. The 10 holes across the highway are more challenging and scenic, with mature trees and more elevation change.

Prolific » Before his death in 1989, Ed Ault designed many courses in the Washington area including publics Algonkian, Reston, Poolesville and Northwest Park; and privates Bretton Woods, Chartwell, Westwood, Chantilly, Hidden Creek and Crofton.

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