Golf in Illinois: Complete Guide
Illinois is a quiet powerhouse in American golf. Chicago Golf Club — the first 18-hole course in the United States — was founded here in 1893, and the state's roster of championship venues (Medinah, Olympia Fields, Shoreacres) ranks among the most impressive in the country.
Overview
The Chicago suburbs contain an extraordinary concentration of elite private courses, many designed by Golden Age masters like Seth Raynor, C.B. Macdonald, and Willie Park Jr. For public golfers, Cog Hill's Dubsdread and Harborside International deliver championship experiences at accessible prices. The flat Midwest terrain is offset by creative routing, mature hardwoods, and Lake Michigan's coastal influence on the North Shore.
Top Golf Cities in Illinois
Golf Regions
Chicago North Shore
Shoreacres, Lake Shore, and elite private clubs on the Lake Michigan bluffs.
Western Suburbs
Chicago Golf Club, Medinah, Cantigny, and the densest collection of quality courses.
South Suburbs
Olympia Fields, Cog Hill, Harborside, and Rich Harvest Farms.
Best Time to Play
May through October. June through September offers the best weather. Fall golf in October can be spectacular with autumn color.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best golf course in Illinois?
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