The USGA has tested and regulated equipment for more than 100 years.

Since it was established in 1894, the United States Golf Association has been dedicated to preserving the integrity, fundamental character, and essential spirit of the game. In this regard, some of the Association’s most important work is carried out daily by the highly-trained staff at the USGA’s Research and Test Center in Far Hills, N.J. Utilizing the most sophisticated conformance testing procedures, the work of the Research and Test Center ensures that skill—not technology—is the prime factor contributing to a player's success and enjoyment of the game.

In order to provide USGA guests with a rich and full experience of what the Association does on a daily basis—as well as showcase and explain critical research in the matter of equipment conformance testing—Museum visitors have the opportunity to take a 30-minute guided tour of the Research and Test Center. Demonstrations that can be seen include the COR Test, Indoor Test Range, and Iron Byron. Staff members will also show visitors the biomechanics labs, where work is ongoing to create a computerized model of the golf swing.

Weather permitting, visitors will enjoy a unique experience on the Research and Test Center’s range, where they will be able to hit golf balls with replica equipment from bygone eras. Every visitor will have the chance to hit several shots with hickory-shafted replicas of clubs from the 1890s and the 1920s, weather permitting, as well as modern clubs donated by some of today’s leading manufacturers.

Guided tour groups are limited to no more than 20 individuals.

Tours are scheduled for Tuesday - Friday at 1 p.m. Visitors should allow 45 minutes to one hour for this special program. Please contact the Museum’s Receptionist, Kim Gianetti, at kgianetti@usga.org or 908-234-2300, for more information on specific tour times.

For more information about the ongoing work of the USGA Research and Test Center, click here.