Two courses designed by the notable architect Hugh Wilson, are part of this famous private club, located just outside Philadelphia. The legendary East course debuted in 1912 and has hosted a long and impressive string of USGA Championships, including the completion of Bobby Jones's Grand Slam (the 1930 U.S. Amateur) and Ben Hogan's 1950 U.S. Open Championship, which included his use of a long-iron on the 72nd hole, famously captured on film. Wilson's West course opened in 1914. Both courses are famous also for using wicker baskets on the flagsticks instead of flags; the baskets serve to deny golfers a view of the wind at each green.

Most recently, Merion hosted the 2009 Walker Cup (USA 16½, GB&I 9½) and the men's 2013 U.S. Open Championship (Justin Rose).