Every year, Platinum Clubs of America ranks the country’s most prestigious private clubs across four categories — Golf & Country, City, Athletic, and Yacht. These institutions set the gold standard for member experience, facilities, and service. Here’s a look at the current honorees from the 2025–2026 edition, refreshed for 2026.
Golf & Country Clubs
Augusta National Golf Club
Home of The Masters, Augusta National is widely considered the most prestigious golf club in the world. Its impeccably maintained course, iconic Magnolia Lane, and tradition of excellence make it the pinnacle of the sport.
Founded 1932 · Augusta, Georgia
- 2
Winged Foot Golf ClubMamaroneck, NY · Est. 1921
- 3
Shinnecock Hills Golf ClubSouthampton, NY · Est. 1891
- 4
Baltusrol Golf ClubSpringfield, NJ · Est. 1895
- 5
Riviera Country ClubPacific Palisades, CA · Est. 1926
- 6
Cypress Point ClubPebble Beach, CA · Est. 1929
- 7
Chicago Golf ClubWheaton, IL · Est. 1892
- 8
Congressional Country ClubBethesda, MD · Est. 1924
City Clubs
Union League of Philadelphia
Founded in 1862, the Union League of Philadelphia stands as America’s top-ranked city club. Its historic Victorian Gothic building on Broad Street has been a civic cornerstone for over 160 years, offering members unmatched programming, dining, and cultural events.
Founded 1862 · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- 2
Jonathan ClubLos Angeles, CA · Est. 1895
- 3
University Club of New YorkNew York, NY · Est. 1865
- 4
University Club of ChicagoChicago, IL · Est. 1887
- 5
The Fort Worth ClubFort Worth, TX · Est. 1885
- 6
Union League Club of ChicagoChicago, IL · Est. 1879
- 7
Cosmos ClubWashington, DC · Est. 1878
Athletic Clubs
Detroit Athletic Club
Founded in 1887, the Detroit Athletic Club is the top-ranked athletic club in America. Its landmark neo-Renaissance building in downtown Detroit houses world-class athletic facilities, fine dining, and a storied tradition of excellence that has endured for over a century.
Founded 1887 · Detroit, Michigan
- 2
Atlanta Athletic ClubJohns Creek, GA · Est. 1898
- 3
The Olympic ClubSan Francisco, CA · Est. 1860
- 4
New York Athletic ClubNew York, NY · Est. 1868
- 5
Washington Athletic ClubSeattle, WA · Est. 1930
- 6
Multnomah Athletic ClubPortland, OR · Est. 1891
- 7
Los Angeles Athletic ClubLos Angeles, CA · Est. 1880
Yacht Clubs
St. Francis Yacht Club
Founded in 1927 on the San Francisco waterfront, St. Francis Yacht Club is America’s highest-ranked yacht club. Known for world-class racing programs, its stunning Marina District location, and a legacy of producing elite competitive sailors.
Founded 1927 · San Francisco, California
- 2
San Diego Yacht ClubSan Diego, CA · Est. 1886
- 3
Grosse Pointe Yacht ClubGrosse Pointe Shores, MI · Est. 1914
- 4
Annapolis Yacht ClubAnnapolis, MD · Est. 1886
- 5
Naples Yacht ClubNaples, FL · Est. 1947
- 6
Chicago Yacht ClubChicago, IL · Est. 1875
How Clubs Earn Platinum Status
Platinum status is not applied for — it is earned. Platinum Clubs of America identifies the nation’s finest private clubs through a confidential national survey of members and club leaders, evaluating each club against its peers and ranking it within its category. The list is refreshed on a two-year cycle, so recognition reflects sustained excellence rather than a single strong season.
Overall Member Experience
The quality and consistency of daily club life, from the moment a member arrives through every amenity and interaction.
Governance and Leadership
The effectiveness of the board, the clarity of strategic vision, and the professionalism of club management.
Facilities and Amenities
The caliber, upkeep, and breadth of the club physical assets, from the golf course to the clubhouse.
Dining and Hospitality
Culinary excellence paired with the warmth and polish of member service across every outlet.
Caliber of Membership
The standing, engagement, and culture of the membership that defines the character of the club.
Prestige and Reputation
National standing and the regard the club holds among peer institutions and the wider industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are Platinum Clubs of America selected?
Clubs are not selected by application. Platinum Clubs of America evaluates clubs through a confidential national survey of members and club leaders, ranking each club against its peers within its category. Recognition reflects sustained excellence across member experience, governance, facilities, dining, and reputation.
How often is the Platinum Clubs list updated?
The list is published on a two-year cycle. The current honorees represent the 2025 to 2026 edition, and the next edition is expected in 2027 to 2028.
What categories of clubs are recognized?
This list covers four categories: Golf and Country Clubs, City Clubs, Athletic Clubs, and Yacht Clubs. Each club is ranked within its own category rather than against clubs of a different type.
Can a club apply to become a Platinum Club?
No. Platinum status is earned through peer recognition and member survey results. It cannot be purchased and there is no paid placement or application process.
How is the Platinum Clubs list different from Distinguished Clubs?
Platinum Clubs of America recognizes a small, elite tier of the country most prestigious clubs. The broader Distinguished Clubs program honors a wider field of clubs that deliver an exceptional member experience.
Is Your Club on the List?
Private Club Marketing helps elite clubs build the member experience and marketing infrastructure that earns Platinum recognition — and keeps it.
