Ever wonder if a busy city can add a touch of magic to your golf bag? In Chicago, you can find courses that blend the downtown buzz with lush, peaceful greens.
Picture yourself taking a smooth swing while the crisp view of glittering skyscrapers catches your eye. Some courses challenge your skills with clever holes, and others offer a quick, fun round filled with scenic charm.
Our guide walks you through the top spots in town, where great tee times await every golfer. Whether you're aiming for a long drive or just a relaxed game with friends, there's a perfect course waiting just for you.
Top Chicago Golf Courses and Destinations
The rankings come from Golfweek’s 2023 Best list and celebrate courses that aren’t hidden away but can also be found right in the urban core. These courses range from beautifully maintained, sprawling greens to charming park district spots. Imagine teeing off with those sparkling views, like a perfect swing against a backdrop of downtown skyscrapers.
This list offers a little bit of everything. Some clubs deliver top-notch, championship-style courses while others, such as Sydney R. Marovitz, present a laid-back nine-hole round with lovely harbor views. It’s like having the best of both worlds, whether you’re craving a serious challenge or just a quick, enjoyable game during a busy day.
- Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Dubsdread) – Lemont (Rank #1)
- Highlands of Elgin – Elgin (Rank #2)
- Stonewall Orchard Golf Club – Grayslake (Rank #3)
- The Glen Club – Glenview (Rank #4)
- The Preserve at Oak Meadows – Addison (Rank #5)
- Thunderhawk Golf Club – Beach Park (Rank #6)
- Harborside International Golf Center (Starboard) – Chicago (Rank #7)
- Ravisloe Country Club – Homewood (Rank #8)
- Mistwood Golf Club – Romeoville (Rank #9)
- Cantigny Golf Club – Wheaton (Rank #10)
- Prairie Landing Golf Club – West Chicago (Rank #11)
- Blackstone Golf Club – Marengo (Rank #12)
Chicago really has a little something for every golfer. From the wide, challenging layouts that test your skills to the relaxed pace of a nine-hole escape with views of the city, every round here feels special. So, whether you’re set on perfecting your long drive or just enjoying a day out with your buddies, these courses deliver a tee time experience that’s hard to beat.
Comparing Chicago Public Fairways and Exclusive Private Clubs
Public-access courses offer a relaxed vibe and are great if you're looking to drop in for a quick round without any fuss about memberships. Places like Prairie Landing, Cantigny, and Mistwood welcome every golfer who loves booking a tee time on the fly or finding bargain rates during quieter hours. They keep it simple and straightforward.
Private clubs, such as Cog Hill Dubsdread, The Glen Club, and Ravisloe, cater to those who enjoy a more polished experience. When you're a member at these clubs, you get neat extras like special practice areas and tailored events that make each round feel exclusive. It’s like having your own personal clubhouse vibe every time you step onto the green.
| Course Name | Type | Location | Ranking | Membership Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prairie Landing Golf Club | Public | West Chicago | #11 | No |
| Cantigny Golf Club | Public | Wheaton | #10 | No |
| Mistwood Golf Club | Public | Romeoville | #9 | No |
| Cog Hill (Dubsdread) | Private | Lemont | #1 | Yes |
| The Glen Club | Private | Glenview | #4 | Yes |
| Ravisloe Country Club | Private | Homewood | #8 | Yes |
When choosing where to play, think about the cost, the upkeep of the course, and how easy it is to book a tee time. Public courses tend to have simple webbooking systems and competitive prices, making them a breeze when your schedule is up in the air. In contrast, joining a private club might mean a higher cost due to membership fees, but you pay for top-notch greens, extra facilities, and a more exclusive feel.
Both options come with their own perks, so it really depends on what matters most to you. Ever thought about how a little extra comfort might change your round? Enjoy figuring out the best fit for your next game!
How to Book Tee Times at Chicago Golf Courses
Booking a tee time in Chicago is as easy as enjoying a sunny day on the course. You can use a website, mobile app, or even a phone call, whichever feels most natural to you. Many local courses now offer simple, user-friendly online systems that let you reserve your spot well in advance. For instance, Sydney R. Marovitz makes it really straightforward by giving you options to book a nine-hole round, take advantage of junior rates, buy gift cards, and even join a text club for quick updates.
| Quick Booking Tips |
|---|
| Book during off-peak hours |
| Keep an eye on cancellation releases |
| Join a course text club |
| Bundle multiple rounds for savings |
| Use junior or off-peak discounts |
Remember, cancellation policies and booking windows can vary from one course to another. Some courses even let you change your schedule until a few hours before your round, so it’s a good idea to check your confirmation details. Planning several rounds at once might save you both time and money since many sites offer package deals that make booking a breeze. With these handy mobile apps and online portals, you can quickly see available times and lock in the round that fits perfectly with your day on the green.
Exploring Chicago’s Historic Greens and Scenic Fairways
Chicago Park District courses mix old-school charm with the excitement of modern play. Many of these courses showcase a classic city park design with unique details that bring Chicago’s history to life. They invite you to step onto well-kept fairways while enjoying a slice of the city’s heritage.
Each course serves up a different piece of history alongside beautiful fairway views. Some boast vintage design touches, while others let you see the city skyline in the distance. These urban golf retreats remind you of the simplicity and warmth of traditional park golf, perfect for a laid-back round that also stirs up memories of times gone by.
| Course Name | Holes | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus Park | 9 holes | Classic vintage design with parkside calm. |
| Douglass Park | 9 holes | Timeless layout surrounded by lush greenery. |
| Jackson Park | 9 holes | Expansive greens paired with historic elegance. |
| Marquette Park | 9 holes | Classic design that radiates community spirit. |
| Robert A. Black | 9 holes | Heritage-rich touches echoing early park golf traditions. |
| Diversey Driving Range | 9 holes | A practice spot with a dash of downtown style. |
| South Shore | 9 holes | Lakefront views blended with historical charm. |
| Clock Tower Café | 9 holes | Retro clubhouse vibes that enhance every round. |
All in all, these urban gems blend local history with scenic water views. They offer a game that challenges your skills while letting you soak in Chicago’s rich cultural vibe with every swing.
Comprehensive Course Guides and Maps for Chicago Golfers
If you're planning a day on the links in Chicago, these printable PDF guides make it a breeze. They break courses down by region so you can easily plan your round. Whether you're eyeing suburban spots like Marengo, West Chicago, and Wheaton or checking out downtown park courses, it all fits in one handy reference. Imagine having a map that shows everything from luxurious suburban greens to iconic urban fairways, complete with detailed layouts and contact info.
Then there are interactive online maps that let you explore courses with just a few clicks. You can filter by public or private courses or even sort by par-3 versus 18-hole rounds. This tool is perfect whether you're in the mood for a quick nine holes or a full championship challenge. Each course pin gives you all the essential details like the location and course rating, so picking your next round is super simple.
Need help navigating from the city to the burbs? Neighborhood highlights do just that. They point out local favorites in areas such as Romeoville, Homewood, Beach Park, Addison, Glenview, Grayslake, Elgin, and Lemont. With distance markers and driving directions, you can smoothly transition from urban play to suburban charms, making sure no great golfing spot gets missed.
Golf Memberships, Fees, and Cost Breakdown in Chicago
Golf courses in Chicago offer a mix of fee structures and membership options. Some courses let you pay as you play, a simple, quick way to enjoy a round, while others offer full memberships loaded with extras like junior programs and gift-card deals. This means you can pick a plan that fits both your playing schedule and your budget.
| Course | Access Type | Greens Fee (Weekday/Weekend) | Membership Initiation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course | Public | Competitive | None | Offers junior programs and text club updates |
| Prairie Landing Golf Club | Public | Competitive | None | Frequent package deals available |
| Mistwood Golf Club | Public | Competitive | None | Budget-friendly nine-hole options |
| Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Dubsdread) | Private | Premium Rates | High Initiation | Exclusive amenities and events |
| The Glen Club | Private | Premium Rates | High Initiation | Upscale package deals and premium experience |
When you’re choosing the right option, take a moment to compare fees and hunt for package deals that might ease the cost of your game. Some courses even offer seasonal discounts or multi-round bundles to help you stick to your budget if you’re planning regular rounds. Balancing the easy, predictable public rates against the all-in experience of private clubs can really help you land the plan that matches your golfing goals and the budget you’ve set.
Final Words
In the action, we explored a mix of course reviews, tee time booking tips, and lively history behind Chicago golf courses. The detailed guide breaks down everything from urban park escapes to exclusive club experiences, making it a handy tool for any golf lover.
Every tip and course ranking is meant to boost your game and confidence on these amazing chicago golf courses. Enjoy every round and keep chasing that perfect swing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Chicago golf courses map show?
The Chicago golf courses map shows the location and type of venues across the city, helping players quickly identify both public and private courses by region.
What is the best public golf course in Chicago?
The best public golf course in Chicago signifies venues with high rankings and quality play. Lists often highlight top choices like Cog Hill Golf & Country Club for its outstanding public-access performance.
What is the most exclusive golf course in Chicago?
The most exclusive golf course in Chicago refers to private clubs known for limited memberships and premium amenities, often offering unique layouts and a refined playing experience.
How many golf courses does Chicago have?
The total number of golf courses in Chicago includes a mix of public, private, and park district venues, offering dozens of options that suit a variety of playing styles and preferences.
Where does the PGA play in Chicago?
The PGA plays at well-known venues within Chicago’s metropolitan area and suburbs, often held at championship-level courses that meet rigorous tournament standards.
What are the differences between public and private Chicago golf courses?
The differences between public and private Chicago golf courses lie in access; public courses are open to all players, while private clubs require memberships and typically offer exclusive services.
Are there distinct regions for South Chicago and North Chicago golf courses?
Distinct regions in Chicago, such as South and North, offer unique course experiences—South Chicago features urban greens while North Chicago presents more suburban-like fairways.
What courses define Chicago’s famous golf venues?
Chicago’s famous golf venues feature well-known names like Harborside International, Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, and Jackson Park Golf Course, recognized for their history and quality designs.
Can you name some notable courses like Harborside International Golf Center and Ravisloe Country Club?
Notable courses such as Harborside International Golf Center and Ravisloe Country Club are celebrated for their excellent design, challenging layouts, and lasting reputation in the Chicago golf scene.
What about courses like Indian Boundary Golf Course and Edgebrook Golf Course?
Courses like Indian Boundary and Edgebrook showcase Chicago’s diverse golf offerings, providing varied challenges and scenic views that contribute to the rich local golfing tradition.
