8 Golf Courses Near Chicago You Need To Play
Although the Chicago area is known for its world-renowned golf courses, the suburbs have some hidden gems that golfers need to check out. These 10 courses will provide a great experience for golfers of all abilities. So, if you're looking for a new course to play in the Chicago area, be sure to add these ten courses to your list!
Cantigny (Wheaton, IL)
Comprised of three nine-hole courses, the 27 hole layout at Cantigny is a challenging yet fair test for golfers. The course is also very scenic…per their website “any golfer will appreciate the bent grass tees, greens and fairways, as well as the 12 lakes, two creeks, over 70 sand bunkers, thousands of oak, ash and hardwood trees and more than 100,000 flowers.”
What also stands out for Cantigny is their practice facilities. Top notch driving range, multiple putting greens, and a short game practice area. Friendly staff, including a bag drop with staff that will come and clean your clubs for you after your round.
Schaumburg Golf Club (Schaumburg, IL)
What's not to love about a course that has 27 holes and offers the chance for players every time they play it? The course has been favorably reviewed by players of all skill levels and ages, as it offers an exciting experience each time you play. The greens are in great shape and roll true, with a smooth surface that makes it easy to putt. The course also has fluffy white sand which plays true.
Prairie Landing (West Chicago, IL)
A Robert Trent Jones design, the layout of this course is unique because it closely follows the tradition and design elements found in classic links courses, such as you'd find in Ireland. The greens are long and rolling, as are the native grasses that stretch along each fairway. And with strategically placed bunkers and mounding, players will have plenty to contend over during their round.
Arrowhead (Wheaton, IL)
Play at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton, where they have 27 holes of championship golf. The entire course features water on 17 holes and 77 strategically placed bunkers that will make you think twice about your shot! There are three nine-hole courses which can be played in different combinations. Greens roll fast but are always in great condition. Also features a high end bar and restaurant for after your round.
Highlands of Elgin (Elgin, IL)
The course is a beautiful links layout with generous fairways and undulating greens. Spray the ball, you'll be punished - hiit it on target and there are plenty of scoring opportunities around this golf course. The Grumpy Goat Restaurant has food and beer with indoor and outdoor dining. The outside patio offers an amazing view of the course. Bonus: one of the cheapest courses on this list and is top notch all around - best value course.
ThunderHawk Golf Club (Beach Park, IL)
Another Robert Trent Jones course, ThunderHawk Golf Club has been recognized as one of the finest public courses in Illinois. The challenging yet playable design will have you coming back for more. There are plenty of scoring opportunities here, but you need to keep your ball off the tee in the fairways and out of trouble. Every hole was carefully designed with unique challenges and great playing conditions alike, so returning to ThunderHawk is an easy decision for anyone who loves this beautiful game!
Village Links of Glen Ellyn (Glen Ellyn, IL)
The Village Links of Glen Ellyn has everything a golfer needs: an 18 hole course, a 9 hole course, and a practice facility. The 18 hole course has hosted 46 USGA/PGA Tour Qualifying events so you know your skills will be tested.
The 9 hole course is perfect for when you need to get a quick round in...If you don't have time to play either course, there is a high quality driving range and short game area to improve your game.
Reserve 22, nestled on the beautiful landscape of Village Link's 18th green, features great food and a spectacular view on its outdoor patio. This American Bistro restaurant serves craft beer and cocktails all in a serene setting that will make you want to stay for more!
Ravisloe Country Club (Homewood, IL)
A former private course that's now public, this course is kept in great country club condition and still gives off the private course feel. The focus at Ravisloe is always on providing great service and having an inclusive culture where ownership/management work hard to deliver.
This Donald Ross designed course is short but challenging, with deep bunkers and challenging greens that provide ample difficulty for players at any level of experience. The fairways are mostly tree lined, so keep it in the fairway and out of trouble and you will have plenty of chances to shoot low. Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green.
***Any courses we missed? Let us know in the comments!***