Illinois boasts some of the finest golf courses in the Midwest, attracting enthusiasts from all over the country. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the state’s diverse landscapes offer a variety of challenges and stunning views.
From lush fairways nestled in serene countryside to meticulously designed greens in bustling cities, Illinois has something for every golfer. In this article, we’ll explore the top 11 golf courses that you absolutely must visit.
Each course has been handpicked for its unique features, impeccable maintenance, and overall golfing experience.
So, grab your clubs and get ready to tee off at these premier locations. From the historic Medinah Country Club to the scenic views at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, each offers a memorable round.
Discover the 11 Best Golf Courses in Illinois
Explore Illinois’ top 11 golf courses, offering diverse landscapes and exceptional challenges. From serene countryside to vibrant city settings, find the perfect course for every golfing enthusiast.
1. Bolingbrook Golf Club
Located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, Bolingbrook Golf Club stands as a semi-private treasure, earning accolades as one of the top 5 golf courses in the state. With green fees ranging from $60 to $85+, this course offers exceptional value.
Golfers enjoy a beautifully designed course, a luxurious clubhouse, and a spacious practice area complete with free balls. Players consistently praise the well-maintained greens and fairways, noting the club’s commitment to providing an outstanding experience.
Bolingbrook Golf Club remains a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking premier golfing in Illinois.
2. Annbriar Golf Course
Annbriar Golf Course, located in Waterloo, Illinois, is a premier public course renowned for its scenic beauty and challenging layout. With green fees typically ranging from $40 to $60, it offers an affordable yet high-quality golfing experience.
The course features a well-maintained design that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, providing both enjoyment and difficulty for golfers of all skill levels.
Annbriar is celebrated for its friendly atmosphere, excellent course conditions, and a welcoming clubhouse. The layout includes strategic hazards and varied terrain, making each round a unique challenge.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, Annbriar Golf Course promises a memorable outing.
3. Cantigny Golf
Cantigny Golf, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is a public course that offers a premium golfing experience. With green fees ranging from $110 to $130, players can enjoy its well-maintained Woodside and Lakeside courses.
The layout is both beautiful and challenging, making it a favorite among golfers. Renowned for its top-notch facilities, Cantigny boasts a chipping green, bunker area, and putting green.
Golfers frequently commend the friendly staff and average-paced greens. For instance, a golfer remarked on how he shot 79 from the white tees, appreciating the conditioning and experience.
4. Gateway National Golf Links
Gateway National Golf Links in Madison, Illinois, offers a public golfing experience with green fees ranging from $42 to $53+. Known for its unbelievable fairways and overall course conditions, this golf course is a popular choice among golfers.
Although the pace of play can be a bit slow, the scenic surroundings and course layout make it a worthwhile experience.
Reviews highlight the well-kept fairways and the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely round of golf. A prime location for anyone seeking a quality public golf course in Illinois.
5. PrairieView Golf Club
PrairieView Golf Club in Byron, Illinois, stands out for its scenic layout and welcoming atmosphere. Golfers can enjoy an engaging course that offers green fees ranging from $38 to $49+.
Known for its meticulous upkeep, this public course attracts players looking for both challenge and relaxation.
Frequent patrons commend the course’s excellent bar and restaurant, enhancing the overall experience. Reviews highlight the course’s great layout, making it a top pick for golfers.
Whether it’s the beautiful scenery or the comfortable amenities, PrairieView provides an all-around satisfying golfing experience.
6. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club – #2 Ravines
Ravines at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club in Lemont, Illinois, offers top-tier public golfing for enthusiasts of all skill levels. With green fees starting at $59+, this course provides great value for its premium experience.
Golfers rave about the impeccable course conditions and perfectly rolling greens. The challenging layout includes dogleg holes and blind tee shots that test precision and strategy.
Reviews highlight friendly, professional staff and a unique 19th hole across the street, providing an extra chance to perfect your game. Don’t miss Ravines at Cog Hill for a memorable golfing adventure.
7. McHenry Country Club
McHenry Country Club in McHenry, Illinois, is celebrated for its excellent layout, well-maintained greens, and friendly atmosphere. Olympia Fields Country Club is known for its rich history, challenging layouts, and major championship events.
Cantigny Golf in Wheaton offers a diverse 27-hole layout and beautiful landscaping, catering to both novices and seasoned golfers. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont is famous for its challenging courses, including the renowned Dubsdread.
Harborside International Golf Center features two distinct 18-hole courses designed by Dick Nugent, with picturesque views of Lake Calumet and the Chicago skyline.
8. Arrowhead Golf Club
Arrowhead Golf Club, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is a renowned public course known for its challenging design and picturesque setting. With green fees typically ranging from $40 to $60, it offers excellent value for golfers seeking both difficulty and beauty.
The course features a well-maintained layout with strategic bunkers and water hazards that test players’ skills. Arrowhead is celebrated for its friendly atmosphere and commitment to providing an enjoyable golfing experience.
The facilities include a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop stocked with essential gear. Its combination of affordability and quality makes Arrowhead a standout choice for golfers in the region.
9. Shady Oaks Country Club
Shady Oaks Country Club in Sublette, Illinois, is a semi-private golf course known for its challenging par 71 layout, well-maintained grounds, and affordable green fees ranging from $29 to $39.
The Chicago Golf Club in Wheaton, a historic private club established in 1892, is celebrated for its classic architecture and exclusive experience.
Cantigny Golf in Wheaton offers 27 holes across three distinct nine-hole courses, praised for its award-winning design and comprehensive practice facilities, making it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.
10. Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois
Located in Urbana, Atkins Golf Club offers a superb public golfing experience. With green fees ranging from $55 to $89, it provides excellent value. Golfers rave about the well-manicured fairways and greens, making it a must-visit.
The course caters to various skill levels, with multiple sets of tees challenging every player. Despite playing during a drought, golfers noted that the conditions remained impressive.
Recent rains have further enhanced the lush, green surroundings. Friendly staff contribute to a positive experience, making Atkins Golf Club a standout in Illinois.
11. Schaumburg Golf Club
Schaumburg Golf Club, a favored public course, offers a compelling golfing experience. Green fees range from $43 to $62+, delivering great value. Reviews highlight its condition even in mid-November, indicative of its year-round maintenance quality.
One player noted issues with leaves and ball marks on greens but praised the overall upkeep. The club’s Tournament/Players Course layout appeals to a wide range of golfers, providing a challenging yet enjoyable round.
Schaumburg Golf Club has earned its spot among Illinois’s best golf destinations by boasting well-maintained fairways and greens.
Services Available at the Golf Courses in Illinois
Clubhouses at top golf courses in Illinois offer gourmet restaurants, casual grills, and well-equipped pro shops. They feature practice facilities such as driving ranges and putting greens.
Golf instruction is available for all levels, along with junior programs and clinics. Many courses also accommodate corporate outings, weddings, and other events, and provide rental equipment and golf carts.
These amenities make the courses a prime destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a challenging or relaxing experience. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a newbie, the scenic landscapes and impeccably maintained greens add to the allure.
Plan your visit and tee off at some of the finest courses in Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top golf destinations in Illinois?
PrairieView Golf Club, Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, and Schaumburg Golf Club are some of the top golf destinations in Illinois, known for their challenging layouts and high-end amenities.
What amenities do these golf courses provide?
These courses offer a variety of amenities, including fine dining, pro shops, driving ranges, golf carts, and rental equipment. They also provide professional golf instruction for all skill levels.
Can I host events at these golf courses?
Yes, many of these golf courses offer event hosting services for corporate outings, weddings, and other special events.
Are there dining options available at these golf courses?
Yes, each of the highlighted golf courses features dining options, ensuring players and visitors can enjoy a meal or snack during their visit.
Is golf instruction available?
Yes, professional golf instruction is available at these courses, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced players.
Conclusion
Exploring Illinois’ top golf courses reveals a rich diversity of layouts and challenges for every golfer. Every course, from PrairieView to Cog Hill, offers more than just a game. Their amenities include fine dining, pro shops, and professional golf instruction.
Whether hosting events like weddings or corporate outings, these courses cater to all needs. With rental equipment and accessible driving ranges, golfing in Illinois is an inclusive experience.
Each club, renowned for its unique features, ensures a memorable visit, encouraging both local enthusiasts and visiting players to explore and enjoy everything they have to offer.
For those seeking scenic views, Stonewall Orchard offers beautiful landscapes that delight the senses. Meanwhile, ThunderHawk is celebrated for its pristine fairways and environmentally-friendly design.
No matter your skill level, these courses guarantee a rewarding experience, making a golfing trip to Illinois a must for any avid player.
Colin McCarthy