The Best Golf Course in Illinois

The Best Golf Course in Illinois is Chicago Golf Club

Chicago Golf Club, located in Wheaton, Illinois, is a living piece of golf history.

Founded in 1892 and designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, the course is one of the oldest in the United States and a founding member of the U.S. Golf Association.

The classic layout of Chicago Golf Club features narrow, tree-lined fairways, deep bunkers, and greens that require precision and finesse.

The sense of tradition is palpable here, as the course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including U.S. Opens and U.S. Amateurs.

Playing at Chicago Golf Club is more than just a round of golf—it’s a step back in time, where the history and heritage of the game come to life on every hole.

The exclusivity of the club and its timeless design make it one of the most revered courses in the world.

Chicago Golf Club Details

Location: Wheaton, IL

Phone: (630) 616-2600

Address: 25W253 Warrenville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189

Designer: Charles Blair Macdonald

Year Opened: 1894

Par: 70

Length: 6,846

Course Rating: 74.1

Slope Rating: 139

Notable Tournaments: Walker Cup, U.S. Open

Famous for historic significance and challenging design.

Chicago Golf Club website

Signature Hole Spotlight

Hole 3: Par-4 with a narrow fairway and deep bunkers guarding the green.

Focus on accuracy off the tee and aim for the center of the fairway to set up a manageable approach shot.

Illinois Golf

Illinois offers a mix of urban and rural golfing experiences, with courses spread throughout the state’s bustling cities and quiet countryside.

Chicago and its surrounding areas are home to many of the state’s most famous courses, offering golfers the chance to play on well-manicured, parkland-style layouts.

Further outside the city, Illinois’ courses become more varied, with rolling hills, dense forests, and lakes providing natural challenges.

The state’s golf season typically runs from spring to fall, with winters bringing cold and snowy conditions that close most courses.

Golfers in Illinois often experience windy conditions, particularly near Lake Michigan, which can add an extra layer of difficulty to even the most straightforward courses.

Overall, Illinois offers a rich golfing history and plenty of opportunities for players of all skill levels.

How We Ranked The Best Course in Illinois

Selecting the best golf course in each state was no easy task.

We carefully reviewed courses based on a combination of factors, including historical significance, course design, tournament history, player reviews, and rankings from trusted sources like Golf Digest and the USGA.

We prioritized courses known for their challenging layouts, scenic beauty, and exceptional maintenance.

Additionally, we considered courses that regularly host major tournaments or are renowned for their contributions to the sport of golf.

Other Factors We Considered

However, we recognize that our selection may not align with everyone’s opinion.

Golf is a deeply personal game, and preferences can vary based on individual experience, playing style, and regional pride.

Some golfers may prefer hidden gems or local favorites that didn’t make our list but are beloved by their community.

It’s also important to note that accessibility played a role in our decision-making.

While we included a mix of public and private courses, we aimed to feature at least some that are open to the public or allow limited access, ensuring a broader range of golfers can enjoy them.