Golf Courses Chicago: Top 13 Picks for 2023

Chicago, a hub of cultural vibrancy, also stakes its claim as a haven for golf enthusiasts. Offering some of the most exquisite links in the Midwest, the Windy City promises diversity in terrains, challenges, and amenities.

For those pondering where to swing their clubs in 2023, our guide uncovers the standouts among Chicago’s golfing jewels. Let’s venture into their unique offerings and what sets them apart.

1. Harborside International Golf Center (Chicago)

Situated within Chicago’s bustling landscape, Harborside International Golf Center stands as a beacon for those passionate about the sport. Comprising the renowned Port & Starboard Links, each promises distinct trials for players. The Port Link, designed in a links-style fashion, is acclaimed for its 15th hole—a par-3 with an expansive bunker resembling an anchor. In contrast, the Starboard Link charms with its strategic bunkers and imaginative pathways.

Harborside’s panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline are undoubtedly a visual treat. The expansive 57-acre training grounds, equipped with chipping, pitching, and sand play zones, coupled with a dedicated putting clock, ensure players can fine-tune their skills. The sprawling clubhouse, spanning 20,000 square feet, houses a sophisticated dining area and a versatile event space, making it perfect for myriad gatherings.

With bentgrass pathways and target greens, Harborside pledges an unparalleled experience, appealing to those who value top-tier links and unmatched amenities.

Location: 11001 S. Doty Avenue, Chicago, IL 60628;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Practice range, chipping & pitching zones, sand play section, practice putting green, GPS-equipped carts;
Link Type: Links style (Port) and Classic Link (Starboard).

2. The Glen Club (Glenview, IL)

Transformed from the grounds of the Glenview Naval Air Station, The Glen Club shines as one of Chicago’s elite public links. Conceived by famed architect Tom Fazio, this club boasts a diverse landscape marked by undulating berms, captivating vistas, and seamless transitions with nature. Mature trees, aquatic bodies, and streams render a scenic backdrop, making each game a picturesque experience. The concluding 18th hole, with its dual aquatic features, remains a highlight for many.

The terraced landscapes, varying elevations, and distant glimpses of Chicago’s skyline make this club both challenging and aesthetically pleasing. Hosting esteemed events like the Illinois PGA and the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame, The Glen Club speaks volumes about its stature in the golfing community.

A palatial 48,000-square-foot clubhouse is another feather in its cap, offering gourmet dining, lodging facilities, and an opulent ballroom. The business-centric amenities render it perfect for corporate events and gatherings, ensuring The Glen Club remains an epitome of luxury and challenge.

Location: 2901 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL 60026;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
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Amenities: Practice range, chipping & pitching zones, sand play section, practice putting green, GPS-equipped carts;
Link Type: Classic Link with terraced landscapes and elevation variations.

3. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Lemont, IL)

Revered among aficionados nationwide, Cog Hill Golf & Country Club provides an unrivaled golfing experience. Spread across 72 holes spanning four distinct links, it boasts a comprehensive practice range, a learning hub, and dual pro shops. The renowned Dubsdread stands out, earning accolades as one of America’s top public links by Golf Magazine. This link challenges professionals in both PGA Tours and USGA events with its intricate design.

The famed Dubsdread #4 has the honor of hosting prestigious tournaments like the Western Open and BMW Championship. With constricted landing zones and elaborate greens dotted with bunkers, it promises a true test of skill.

Cog Hill is more than just Dubsdread #4. Links #1, #2, and #3 each have their charm. The No.1 link meanders through wooded landscapes, offering both length and intricacy. While No.2, a championship-style link, presents challenges with its wooded terrain and ravines. And No.3, renowned for its design, provides an engaging game with its sandy challenges and aquatic features.

Location: 12294 Archer Ave, Lemont, IL 60439;
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Practice range, chipping & pitching zones, practice putting green, GPS-equipped carts;
Link Type: Classic Link with terraced landscapes, featuring four links catering to varied skill levels.

4. Cantigny Golf Club (Wheaton, IL)

Nestled within a vast 300-acre expanse of lush vegetation in Wheaton, Illinois, Cantigny Golf Club offers enthusiasts a mesmerizing environment to hone their skills. At its heart is The Academy, a hub for instruction and skill development catering to golf enthusiasts from novices to experts. Spread across three distinctive segments – Woodside, Lakeside, and Hillside – this 27-hole landscape challenges players with a myriad of native trees such as oak, maple, and hickory, enriching the experience with a touch of nature.

Strategically positioned water bodies and more than 70 sand traps, coupled with natural obstacles like dense foliage and a pair of winding creeks, ensure that every game played here tests precision and strategy. Recognizing its significance in the golfing world, Cantigny Golf Club has proudly been the venue for several prominent Illinois tournaments, including numerous State Amateur Championships.

Young enthusiasts aren’t left out either; there’s a dedicated nine-hole circuit specially designed for the younger generation.

Location: 27W270 Mack Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189;
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Driving range, areas for chipping & pitching, practice putting zone, golf carts equipped with GPS;
Course type: Conventional layout featuring undulating landscapes and elevation shifts, split into three nine-hole circuits suitable for all player categories.

5. The Beverly Country Club

Heralded as an iconic institution within the golfing realm of the Windy City, The Beverly Country Club seamlessly blends history with modern-day golfing prowess. Covering 18 holes with a total yardage of 7016 and a par of 71, this terrain is a blend of excitement and challenge. Legends like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Francis Ouimet, and Chick Evans have etched their names as champions here. Its unique design integrates a prominent geological ridge, which stretches eastward from the fifth green, leading to the second fairway.

As the 2020s dawned, the Club undertook extensive revamps, enlarging greens, fairways, and sand traps while introducing new grass varieties. Enhancements in 2022 included the inception of a mini Par 3 circuit and a Himalayan-style putting green, set to be fully operational in 2023. All in all, The Beverly Country Club stands out as a top-tier golfing destination in Chicago’s landscape.

Location: 87th St & Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60620;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Driving range, zones for chipping & pitching, practice putting zone, golf carts with integrated GPS;
Course type: Classic layout set on undulating landscapes with elevation alterations. An 18-hole circuit, augmented by a mini Par 3 and a Himalayan-style putting green, geared towards seasoned players. Major renovations were initiated in 2020, with complete operational status expected in 2023.

6. Billy Caldwell Golf Course

Nestled in the serene setting of Chicago’s verdant north side, Billy Caldwell Golf Course is an enticing nine-hole circuit perfect for weekday relaxation. Spanning 3029 yards and featuring a course rating of 34.8 along with a slope rating of 115, it appeals to a wide spectrum of golf aficionados, from beginners to seasoned players. The picturesque fifth hole stands out, posing a challenge even for the adept.

A testament to its alluring design is the 293-yard par 4, hole 5, which beckons ambitious players to test their mettle. With its strategic location amidst natural beauty and a welcoming staff, this location promises a delightful and economical golfing escapade ideal for those in the bustling precincts of Chicago’s north.

Location: 6200 N. California Ave, Chicago, IL 60659;
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Driving range, zones for chipping & pitching, practice putting zone;
Course type: A nine-hole circuit featuring a 293-yard par 4 hole 5, catering to a diverse range of players aiming for a budget-friendly and swift round of golf.

7. Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course

Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course is celebrated not only for its intricately designed greens but also for its unparalleled vistas. Situated adjacent to Lake Michigan’s shores, it promises golf lovers an unforgettable experience. Comprising nine holes with a par of 36 and extending over 3265 yards, the course presents a blend of challenge and beauty. Ensuring smooth gameplay, the site is supervised by dedicated rangers. The mesmerizing Chicago skyline, harbors, and dense foliage come alive from the vantage point of the second green.

Its design meticulously integrates the lakeside setting, highlighted by the par-five fifth hole skirting the water’s edge. Extended greens add an extra layer of challenge for players. The historical clubhouse, a repurposed church, showcases spectacular stone architecture and also serves as one of the eight Chicagoland Golf Academy venues. Men’s and women’s evening leagues are hosted regularly, and the course provides rental carts and gear for visitors.

Location: 3600 N. Recreation Drive, Chicago, IL 60613;
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Driving range, zones for chipping & pitching, practice putting zone, cart and equipment rentals;
Course type: A nine-hole circuit with a par of 36 covering 3265 yards. Enthralls with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s skyline. The fifth hole runs alongside the lakeshore, with extended greens adding complexity.

8. ThunderHawk Golf Club (Beach Park, IL)

Nestled within a vast expanse of 241 breathtaking acres, the ThunderHawk Golf Club emerges as a picturesque haven for golfing enthusiasts. This club, gracing the Midwest, is set amidst diverse landscapes ranging from dense woods, and tranquil marshes, to vast prairies. Its recognition by the Audubon Society signifies its commitment to environmental preservation and highlights its position as the first Illinois public club to earn this honor.

Players stepping onto its vast expanses are treated to an intricate mix of skill-based challenges and enjoyable gameplay. The club’s intricate design challenges players with unpredictable shots and a myriad of strategically positioned sand traps. The distinct par-5 segments stand out, further complemented by pristine bent grass greens and fairways.

Additionally, for those aiming to host events, ThunderHawk extends its banquet amenities. Given its exemplary features and breathtaking surroundings, it’s evident why this club stands among the top public golfing venues in the Midwest.

Location: 39700 N. Lewis Avenue, Beach Park, IL 60099;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Practice facilities including a driving range, practice green for chipping & pitching, rental facilities for carts and other gear;
Course Specifications: An 18-hole championship realm with expansive fairways and pristine bent grass greens. Celebrated for its environmental stewardship, it also provides banquet services.

9. Mistwood Golf Club

Standing as a beacon of excellence, Mistwood Golf Club has continuously garnered attention and accolades for its unparalleled golfing standards. Spanning across 7005 yards, this semi-private domain offers players a challenging round of 18 holes, complete with a par of 72, all on the lush bent grass terrain. With a commendable rating of 74.7 and a slope measurement of 144, it ensures both exclusivity and sheer pleasure for its patrons.

At Mistwood, the golfing voyage is elevated by cutting-edge amenities. The club boasts five tee positions for each hole, ensuring varied gameplay, coupled with 20 iconic St. Andrews-inspired sod-wall traps that test one’s skill. Enhancing the experience is the modern 5,000-square-foot Performance Center, poised at the driving range’s commencement, equipped for custom fittings, repair services, and tutorial sessions.

Moreover, a sprawling 26,000-square-foot clubhouse awaits guests, complete with top-tier facilities, making it evident why the club’s accolades include recognitions from esteemed golf publications.

Location: 1500 W. Renwick Rd Romeoville, IL 60446;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Comprehensive practice facilities, rental services, a Performance Center tailored for custom fittings, repairs, and tutorials. Expansive clubhouse featuring a top-notch putting green;
Course Specifications: 18-hole semi-private realm, par 72 across 7005 yards of lush bent grass. Intricate challenges, multiple tee positions, and a state-of-the-art Performance Center ensure an unmatched golfing journey.

10. Ruffled Feathers Golf Club, Lemont

Emanating grandeur, the Ruffled Feathers Golf Club serves as a pinnacle for golfing aficionados, renowned for its masterfully crafted layout, adept professionals, and luxurious comforts. Envisioned by the iconic Pete Dye in collaboration with his son, P.B. Dye, this 6,900-yard par-72 masterpiece showcases 114 captivating bunkers, water-based challenges, and a plethora of tees for each hole. A standout is the 11th hole, boasting a heart-pounding 100-yard journey to a green enigmatically surrounded by water.

Beyond the game, the club pampers its visitors with an opulent clubhouse, an array of culinary delights at the Feathers Bar & Grill, and a dedicated team to organize bespoke golf tournaments. Further, the club solidifies its elite status with exceptional offerings such as an all-grass driving zone, a modernized eatery, a mobile beverage service, and an unparalleled pro shop.

Nestled amidst towering trees and meticulously curated landscapes, Ruffled Feathers Golf Club unequivocally remains an essential destination for those pursuing a sublime golfing experience combined with unmatched luxury.

Location: 1 Pete Dye Dr, Lemont, IL 60439;
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: All-grass driving section, refurbished dining area with mobile beverage service, elite pro shop managed by PGA Professionals offering both group and individual tutorials. The clubhouse serves a plethora of dining options, especially at Feathers Bar & Grill, and a dedicated team to manage golfing events;
Course Specifications: Semi-private 18-hole domain, par 72 sprawled over 6900 yards of immaculate bent grass. The iconic 11th hole, demanding a 100-yard stretch to a water-bound green, adds to its allure.

11. Stonewall Orchard Golf Club

Situated in the heart of the Chicago region, the Stonewall Orchard Golf Club is renowned for its meticulously designed 18-hole, par-72 layout that stretches across a vast 7,124 yards. With a 150 slope and a rating of 75.0, this green haven masterfully juxtaposes challenging segments with user-friendly sections. The condition of the greens is impeccable, particularly when navigating the slightly tougher back nine.

Gaining much admiration from the United States Golf Association (USGA), Stonewall Orchard has been the venue for numerous U.S. Open Qualifiers since 2003, along with the Illinois PGA Section Championship. The picturesque setting is accentuated by over 65,000 mature pine and oak trees, interspersed amid lush forests and wetlands. This green gem has rightfully earned its place among Chicago’s premier golfing destinations, showcasing nature’s beauty and a design that appeals to enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of the sport.

Location: 8100 W 183rd St, Tinley Park, IL 60487;
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Venue for several U.S. Open qualifiers and the Illinois PGA Section Championship. Over 65,000 mature trees set amidst forests and wetlands enhancing its appeal;
Course Details: An 18-hole, par-72 layout covering 7,124 yards, marked with a 150 slope and 75.0 rating. Exceptionally maintained greens, particularly challenging on the back nine. Praised by the USGA among Chicago’s premier golfing destinations.

12. Schaumburg Golf Club (Schaumburg, IL)

Positioned in the bustling Chicagoland, Schaumburg Golf Club is a public facility that offers the grandeur and service quality of a private country club. Here, enthusiasts can revel in immaculate bent grass tees, fairways, and greens, all set against an undulating terrain. The club caters to golfing improvement with its comprehensive practice facilities and The Academy, a renowned teaching service for refining skills.

Not just known for its top-tier facilities, the club has been the chosen venue for a myriad of significant events, including U.S. Open Qualifying, and many state and local championships. Stretching over 6700 yards, the terrain is rich with bent grass features and assorted tree varieties, making it one of the region’s most frequented public facilities.

The prairie-styled clubhouse, an architectural marvel conceptualized by Frank Lloyd Wright, houses a plethora of amenities like a pro shop, banquet halls, and a restaurant. Visitors can indulge in a curated menu while relishing the scenic beauty enveloping the club. From unparalleled golfing facilities to its history and captivating architecture, the Schaumburg Golf Club promises an enduring memory for both golfers and guests.

Location: 401 N Roselle Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194;
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Comprehensive practice setup and The Academy for professional guidance; venue for several significant golf events; bent grass features across a 6700+ yard landscape; Frank Lloyd Wright designed prairie-style clubhouse equipped with a host of services;
Course Details: 18 holes; Par 71 with a rating of 72.7/127.

13. The Preserve at Oak Meadows, Addison

Occupying a sprawling 288 acres, The Preserve at Oak Meadows proudly showcases a par-72 golf layout, extending over 7,089 yards. This prestigious facility has been spotlighted in the “Golfweek Magazine 2018 Best Courses You Can Play”, a testament to its unmatched design that artfully blends parkland and links features. This layout not only won accolades for its game-centric design but also for championing environmental conservation and resilience against flooding.

The design’s brilliance extends beyond golfing aesthetics. A significant emphasis was laid on creating an ecological sanctuary for both players and the surrounding wildlife. This conservation-first approach during the design phase led to the creation of a remarkable golfing destination. It effortlessly marries the thrill of the sport with the tranquility of nature, underscoring the paramount importance of ecological preservation. Such a blend of attributes solidifies The Preserve at Oak Meadows’ position among the nation’s elite golfing destinations.

Location: 700 Oak Meadows Dr, Addison, IL 60101;
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars;
Amenities: Unique design that incorporates parkland and links features; accolades from renowned golfing publications; design that stresses both playability and environmental conservation; serves as a serene habitat for players and wildlife alike;
Course Details: 18 holes; Par 72 with a rating of 73.3/127.

Selecting the Right Venue: Insights and Tips

Selecting the ideal playing ground is a blend of personal preference, skill level, and the specific experiences one desires. Here are some insights and tips to guide your selection:

Skill Level Assessment: Before deciding, assess your proficiency. If you’re a novice, opt for locations known for their forgiving nature, while seasoned players might seek out more challenging terrains to test their mettle;
Aesthetic Value: For some, the beauty of the environment enhances the playing experience. If you’re one of them, prioritize venues set amidst nature, offering breathtaking vistas or serene landscapes;
Facilities and Amenities: Beyond the playing experience, consider the additional amenities on offer. Establishments with state-of-the-art training facilities, professional coaching services, or exquisite dining options can elevate the overall experience;
Historical Significance: Some aficionados have a penchant for locations steeped in history, having hosted notable tournaments or designed by renowned architects. Researching the legacy of these establishments can add a layer of depth to your game;
Budget Constraints: While passion for the sport is boundless, financial constraints might not be. Balance your desires with the practicality of membership fees, guest charges, and other incidental expenses;
Reviews and Recommendations: In the digital age, online reviews can provide valuable insights into the on-ground experience. However, word-of-mouth recommendations from fellow enthusiasts can be equally invaluable;
Seasonal Considerations: The time of year can impact the condition of the turf, putting greens, and overall environment. Research the best seasons for each establishment to ensure an optimal experience.

Lastly, remember that the essence of the sport lies not just in the challenge but in the joy of the game, the camaraderie shared with fellow players, and the memories forged on these iconic grounds.

In Summary

Having delved into the intricate details and unique offerings of the 13 premier links in the Windy City, it’s clear that there’s a playing field tailored to every enthusiast’s preference. Whether the allure lies in a demanding terrain or the serenity of nature’s embrace, the options in 2023 cater to a vast array of tastes.

With this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, the only step left is to schedule your preferred tee slot. Seize the moment and experience the unparalleled splendor of Chicago’s finest turf and putting greens. Without further ado, assemble your gear and set out for an unforgettable session on the greens.