Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, not only offers a rich history and vibrant city life but also boasts a selection of exceptional golf courses. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the manicured fairways near the city, Illinois provides a diverse range of golfing experiences. In this blog post, we’ll unveil the top 10 golf courses in Illinois, highlighting their unique features, championship designs, and renowned amenities. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a golf vacation, get ready to tee off on some of the finest courses this state has to offer!
1. Medinah Country Club (Medinah)
Medinah Country Club, located in Medinah, is a historic club with three championship courses: Course 1, Course 2, and Course 3. These courses have hosted numerous major championships and showcase classic designs, tree-lined fairways, and challenging layouts, making Medinah a must-play destination for avid golfers.
2. Chicago Golf Club (Wheaton)
Chicago Golf Club, situated in Wheaton, is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. Designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, this exclusive club offers a traditional layout with strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and a peaceful ambiance that reflects the roots of American golf.
3. Olympia Fields Country Club (Olympia Fields)
Olympia Fields Country Club, located in Olympia Fields, offers two exceptional courses: the North Course and the South Course. These courses have hosted major championships and feature beautiful parkland settings, challenging bunkers, and a combination of strategic and picturesque holes.
4. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Lemont)
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, situated in Lemont, boasts four championship courses: No. 1 (Dubsdread), No. 2 (Ravines), No. 3 (Red), and No. 4 (DUBS). Designed by renowned architect Dick Wilson, these courses offer a range of challenges, from the demanding Dubsdread Course to the picturesque Ravines Course, providing a golfing experience for players of all levels.
5. Butler National Golf Club (Oak Brook)
Butler National Golf Club, located in Oak Brook, offers an exclusive and challenging course. Designed by George Fazio, this private club features strategically placed bunkers, fast greens, and a serene atmosphere, providing an exceptional golfing experience.
6. The Glen Club (Glenview)
The Glen Club, situated in Glenview, is a championship course designed by Tom Fazio. With its pristine fairways, challenging bunkers, and a stunning clubhouse reminiscent of a Scottish castle, The Glen Club provides both beauty and challenge for golfers seeking a memorable round.
7. Rich Harvest Farms (Sugar Grove)
Rich Harvest Farms, located in Sugar Grove, is a private course known for its unique design and pristine conditions. Designed by Jerry Rich, this course features rolling terrain, challenging holes, and breathtaking views, creating a remarkable golfing experience.
8. TPC Deere Run (Silvis)
TPC Deere Run, situated in Silvis, is home to the John Deere Classic, a PGA Tour event. Designed by D.A. Weibring, this championship course offers a mix of wooded and prairie-style holes, strategic water features, and a challenging finishing stretch that adds excitement to the game.
9. The Links at Carillon (Plainfield)
The Links at Carillon, located in Plainfield, offers a links-style course with open fairways, strategic bunkering, and natural grasses. This public course provides a unique and enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.
10. Cantigny Golf Club (Wheaton)
Cantigny Golf Club, situated in Wheaton, offers 27 holes spread across three distinct courses: Woodside, Lakeside, and Hillside. Designed by Roger Packard and Lee Schmidt, these courses feature picturesque landscapes, challenging holes, and immaculate conditions, making Cantigny a popular choice among golfers.
Conclusion
Illinois, with its diverse golfing landscape and renowned courses, offers a wealth of opportunities for golf enthusiasts. From the historic Medinah Country Club to the prestigious Chicago Golf Club, and from the championship layouts of Olympia Fields Country Club to the beautiful Glen Club, these top 10 golf courses in Illinois showcase the perfect blend of scenic beauty and exciting play.
Whether you’re teeing off on the challenging Dubsdread Course at Cog Hill or enjoying the picturesque setting of Cantigny Golf Club, Illinois’ golf courses offer unforgettable experiences for golfers of all levels.
So, whether you’re a local resident looking to explore new courses or planning a golf vacation to Illinois, these top 10 golf courses are waiting to provide you with exceptional rounds. Immerse yourself in the rich golfing heritage, embrace the challenge of these outstanding courses, and tee off on a golfing adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. Illinois’ golfing treasures are sure to satisfy your golfing desires and exceed your expectations.