best golf courses in illinois

Illinois, known as the “Prairie State”, is a haven for golf enthusiasts with its diverse landscape, varying terrain, and challenging weather conditions. Home to over 500 golf courses, Illinois offers a wide range of options for golfers of all levels. But what makes a golf course stand out? Let’s explore the key factors that make a golf course great.

What Makes a Golf Course Great?

1. Course Design and Layout
2. A well-designed course offers a balance of challenge and playability for golfers of all levels. It should have a variety of holes, including par 3s, 4s, and 5s, with strategically placed hazards and bunkers. The layout should also take advantage of the natural terrain and offer scenic views.
3. Scenery and Natural Beauty
4. A great golf course should not only test your skills but also offer a visually stunning experience. With its rolling terrain, lush greenery, and water features, Illinois offers some of the most picturesque golf courses in the country.
5. Course Difficulty and Challenge
6. A challenging course with a mix of easy and difficult holes is essential for keeping players engaged and improving their skills. Difficult hazards, bunkers, and undulating greens make the game more challenging and exciting.
7. Course Condition and Maintenance
8. A well-maintained course is a must for any great golf course. It should have well-manicured greens, fairways, and roughs, with no bare spots or debris. The course should also offer consistent playing conditions throughout the year.

Top 5 Golf Courses in Illinois

1. Medinah Country Club
2. Designed by Tom Bendelow and later redeveloped by top architect Rees Jones, Medinah Country Club boasts three 18-hole championship courses known for their challenging layouts and beautiful scenery.
3. Olympia Fields Country Club
4. Home to the 2015 U.S. Amateur Championship, Olympia Fields Country Club offers two 18-hole courses with a mix of tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, and challenging greens.
5. Chicago Golf Club
6. Opened in 1894, the Chicago Golf Club is the oldest 18-hole golf course in the United States. Designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, this course offers a classic links-style layout with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
7. Cog Hill Golf and Country Club
8. Featuring four 18-hole courses, including the famous Dubsdread course, Cog Hill Golf and Country Club has hosted several PGA Tour events. The challenging courses offer a variety of terrain and beautiful views.
9. Rich Harvest Farms
10. Located in Sugar Grove, Rich Harvest Farms is a private 18-hole course known for its demanding layout and beautiful scenery. It has hosted several amateur and professional golf events, including the NCAA Championships.

Other Notable Golf Courses in Illinois

1. The Glen Club
2. TPC Deere Run
3. Cantigny Golf Club
4. Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa
5. Harborside International Golf Center

With its scenic landscapes, challenging courses, and top-notch facilities, Illinois is a top destination for golfers. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the state offers a variety of options for a memorable golfing experience. So, pack your clubs and tee off at one of the best golf courses in Illinois.

Key Takeaways:

• Illinois boasts some of the best golf courses in the country, with stunning landscapes, challenging layouts, and top-notch maintenance.
• When choosing a golf course, look for a well-designed layout, beautiful scenery, challenging course difficulty, and exceptional course maintenance.
• Some of the top golf courses in Illinois include Medinah Country Club, Olympia Fields Country Club, and Rich Harvest Farms.

Top 5 Golf Courses In Illinois

Illinois is home to some of the most renowned and picturesque golf courses in the country. For avid golfers and enthusiasts alike, the state offers an impressive selection of courses to choose from. In this section, we will highlight the top 5 golf courses in Illinois, each with its unique features and challenges. From the prestigious Medinah Country Club to the stunning Rich Harvest Farms, let’s explore the best of the best in the world of golf in Illinois.

1. Medinah Country Club

The Medinah Country Club is one of the top golf courses in Illinois, renowned for its prestigious history and exceptional facilities. To fully experience this renowned club, follow these steps:

1. Membership: Explore the various membership options and requirements to gain access to the exclusive amenities of the Medinah Country Club.
2. Tee Time: Contact the club in advance to secure a tee time and ensure availability.
3. Evaluate Course: Assess the course design, which features three 18-hole courses, and appreciate the beautifully manicured fairways and greens.
4. Facilities: Take advantage of the world-class facilities, including a driving range, practice areas, and a clubhouse, at the Medinah Country Club.
5. Experience Events: Attend special events, tournaments, or professional championships held at the renowned Medinah Country Club.
6. Enjoy Dining: Savor delicious dining options at the club’s restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines.

With stunning scenery and a challenging course, Olympia Fields Country Club will make you question if you’re playing golf or competing in a survival reality show.

2. Olympia Fields Country Club

Olympia Fields Country Club is a renowned golf course in Illinois, highly regarded for its exceptional course design, challenging layout, and breathtaking natural scenery. The club features two 18-hole championship courses, the North Course and the South Course, each providing a distinct and unforgettable golfing experience. With expertly maintained fairways, beautifully manicured greens, and picturesque surroundings, Olympia Fields offers golfers a premium and unparalleled golfing experience.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a novice, Olympia Fields Country Club offers a stimulating yet enjoyable game for players of all levels.

3. Chicago Golf Club

Chicago Golf Club, situated in Wheaton, Illinois, is widely recognized as one of the premier golf courses in the state. With a distinguished membership and a rich history, it boasts a challenging and meticulously maintained course. The club prides itself on its traditional course design and layout, providing a timeless golfing experience. The stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape only adds to the allure of playing at Chicago Golf Club. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the sport, this renowned club promises a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience.

For those seeking to play at the top golf courses in Illinois, Chicago Golf Club should be at the very top of their list.

4. Cog Hill Golf And Country Club

The Cog Hill Golf and Country Club is renowned as one of the top golf courses in Illinois, praised for its challenging courses and impeccable maintenance. Featuring four championship courses, including the renowned Dubsdread course, Cog Hill offers a diverse range of playing experiences for avid golfers. This club has a rich history, having hosted numerous professional tournaments, including the prestigious Western Open on the PGA Tour. For decades, Cog Hill has been a preferred choice for both professional and amateur golfers, attracting players from all corners of the country. With its stunning scenery, well-designed courses, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Cog Hill Golf and Country Club is a must-visit destination for golfers in Illinois and beyond.

A farm that’s worth its weight in gold, but with more greens and less cows.

5. Rich Harvest Farms

Rich Harvest Farms, located in Illinois, is a renowned golf course that is known for its exceptional design. The course offers a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all levels of skill. The beautiful natural landscape only adds to the appeal of the course. With meticulous maintenance and a dedication to providing top-notch playing conditions, Rich Harvest Farms guarantees a memorable golfing experience. Whether you are a professional golfer or a casual enthusiast, playing at Rich Harvest Farms is a must-do. Pro-tip: When playing at Rich Harvest Farms, be sure to take advantage of the strategic bunkers and carefully plan your shots for optimal results.

These Illinois golf courses may not be top 5 material, but they still offer a hole-in-one experience for golfers.

Other Notable Golf Courses In Illinois

While the golf courses mentioned in the main article are undoubtedly some of the best in Illinois, there are many other notable courses worth mentioning. These courses offer their own unique challenges and stunning landscapes, making them a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. From the luxurious Glen Club to the championship TPC Deere Run, each course has its own distinct features that make it stand out. Let’s take a closer look at some of the other top golf courses in Illinois that are definitely worth a visit.

1. The Glen Club

The Glen Club is a top-rated golf course located in Illinois, providing an unforgettable golfing experience. When deciding to play at The Glen Club, here are some steps to keep in mind:

1. Research: Gather information about The Glen Club, including its location, course design, and reputation.
2. Facilities: Check the amenities offered, such as practice areas, clubhouse, and dining options.
3. Course Conditions: Look for reviews or ratings on the course’s condition and maintenance.
4. Accessibility: Consider the convenience of reaching the course and availability of tee times.
5. Cost: Evaluate the green fees and any additional charges for services or equipment.

If you’re searching for a challenging yet picturesque golf course, The Glen Club should definitely be on your list. You can take in the beautiful views, make use of the top-notch facilities, and experience the exceptional course conditions it has to offer.

2. TPC Deere Run

TPC Deere Run is a renowned golf course located in Illinois. It offers a challenging and visually stunning experience for golf enthusiasts. Designed by D.A. Weibring, this course showcases a unique layout that utilizes the natural landscape. The course’s difficulty level is elevated by strategically placed hazards and bunkers. TPC Deere Run’s impeccable maintenance ensures top-notch playing conditions. With its beautiful surroundings and exceptional design, TPC Deere Run stands out as one of the best golf courses in Illinois. Golfers seeking a memorable and challenging game should make TPC Deere Run their go-to destination.

Visit Cantigny Golf Club for a hole-in-one experience that will make you forget all about your terrible swing and lack of coordination.

3. Cantigny Golf Club

Cantigny Golf Club in Illinois is a premier golf course that offers an exciting and enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts. With its meticulously designed course layout, breathtaking natural beauty, and well-maintained conditions, Cantigny Golf Club stands out as one of the top golf courses in Illinois. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, Cantigny Golf Club offers a range of tee options to suit different skill levels. In addition, the club provides exceptional amenities and services, including a pro shop and various dining options. For a truly unforgettable golfing experience in Illinois, Cantigny Golf Club is a must-visit destination.

Don’t let the fancy name fool you, this golf course is not for the faint of heart (or wallet).

4. Eagle Ridge Resort And Spa

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa is a renowned golf course located in Illinois. It boasts a beautiful setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The course is highly regarded for its challenging layout, offering golfers an exhilarating and satisfying game. The resort also provides luxurious amenities, such as a spa, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and recreation. With its meticulously maintained fairways and greens, Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa guarantees a top-quality golfing experience. For those in search of an unforgettable golfing retreat, this resort is an excellent option.

The only place where you can hit a hole-in-one and see the Chicago skyline at the same time.

5. Harborside International Golf Center

Harborside International Golf Center is a renowned golf destination in Illinois, offering two championship courses. To make the most of your experience at the center, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right course: Harborside offers two distinct courses, the Port and the Starboard. Consider factors like difficulty level, layout, and personal preferences when deciding which course to play.
2. Book tee times in advance: Harborside is a popular golf center, so it’s recommended to book tee times well in advance to secure your preferred playing slots.
3. Prepare your equipment: Ensure your golf bag is well-stocked with the necessary clubs, balls, tees, and other essentials. The center has a pro shop on-site if you need to purchase any additional items.
4. Arrive early: Give yourself ample time to check-in, warm up at the practice facilities, and familiarize yourself with the course layout before your tee time.
5. Enjoy the experience: Take in the breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Calumet as you navigate the challenging fairways and greens at Harborside International Golf Center.

Just remember, it’s not the course that matters, it’s how you swing on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Of The Top-Ranked Golf Courses In Illinois?

According to All Square and Golf Digest, some of the top-ranked golf courses in Illinois include Chicago Golf Club, Shoreacres Golf Club, Butler National Golf Club, Canyata Golf Club, and Medinah Country Club.

What Are Some Of The Popular Golf Destinations In Illinois?

Illinois offers a diverse range of golf destinations, including ocean-view courses, top resorts, and major tournament sites. Some of the top destinations include Quinta do Lago, Evian Resort, PGA Catalunya Resort, and Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.

What Are Some Of The Notable Courses Located In The Greater Chicago Area?

The Greater Chicago area is home to a high concentration of top-ranked courses, such as Old Elm Club, TPC Deere Run, Orchard Valley Golf Course, ThunderHawk Golf Club, and Stonewall Orchard Golf Club.

What Are Some Of The International Courses That Have Been Featured In Top Golf Course Rankings?

All Square features over 33,000 golf courses in 180 countries, including international destinations such as La Gomera, Abu Dhabi, Costa Navarino, and Cape Kidnappers. These courses have been highly praised by course panelists and users on the platform.

What Are Some Of The Top Golf Courses In The Middle East And Continental Europe?

According to All Square, some of the top courses in the middle east and continental Europe include PGA Catalunya Resort in Spain, Evian Resort in France, and Al Zorah Golf Club in the United Arab Emirates.

What Is The Significance Of The 2023-2024 Ranking Of The Best Golf Courses In Illinois?

The 2023-2024 ranking serves as a guide for golf enthusiasts, providing valuable insights and information on the top courses in Illinois. This ranking is determined by a panel of experts and is updated regularly to reflect any changes in the quality of courses.