1. Medinah Country Club
Medinah Country Club is a world-class golf facility known for its rich history and championship courses. With three courses designed by golf legends, it has hosted numerous major tournaments, including three PGA Championships and two U.S. Opens.
The Course Highlights
The No. 3 Course at Medinah Country Club is the most famous, having hosted major championships. It features challenging fairways, strategic bunkers, and pristine greens. The signature hole, the par-3 17th, is surrounded by water and requires precision.
2. Chicago Golf Club
Established in 1892, Chicago Golf Club is the oldest 18-hole golf course in the United States. This historic club has a traditional layout that showcases the timeless beauty of golf. The course's classic design elements and meticulously maintained conditions make it a must-play for golf purists.
The Course Highlights
Chicago Golf Club's challenging fairways are lined with mature trees, requiring accuracy off the tee. The undulating greens and strategic bunkering add to the course's difficulty. The iconic 18th hole, a par-4, offers a memorable finish with its dogleg left and well-guarded green.
3. Olympia Fields Country Club
Olympia Fields Country Club is a prestigious golf destination that has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship. With two championship courses, it offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
The Course Highlights
The North Course at Olympia Fields Country Club is renowned for its demanding layout and picturesque views. It features tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and undulating greens. The par-4 18th hole, with its elevated tee and water hazard, provides a thrilling finish.
4. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club is a golfing haven with four championship courses designed by renowned architect Dick Wilson. It has been the host of numerous professional tournaments, including the PGA Tour's BMW Championship.
The Course Highlights
The Dubsdread Course at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club is the most famous and challenging. It features narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens. The signature par-4 18th hole, known as "Dubsdread," requires accuracy off the tee and precise approach shots.
5. Conway Farms Golf Club
Conway Farms Golf Club is a private, championship course located in the northern suburbs of Chicago. Designed by renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, it offers a stunning and challenging golfing experience.
The Course Highlights
Conway Farms Golf Club boasts a unique layout with a variety of elevation changes and strategically placed hazards. The par-3 11th hole, with its island green, is a focal point of the course. Impeccable course conditions and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit.
6. Butler National Golf Club
Butler National Golf Club is an exclusive, members-only golf course known for its exceptional conditions and challenging design. It has hosted the Western Open and is renowned for its commitment to preserving the spirit of the game.
The Course Highlights
Butler National Golf Club's demanding layout features narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens. The par-4 18th hole, known as "The Monster," is one of the toughest finishing holes in golf. The club's rich history and pristine conditions make it a must-see.
7. Shoreacres
Shoreacres is a hidden gem located along the shores of Lake Michigan. This private club offers a classic links-style golf experience with stunning lake views and challenging winds.
The Course Highlights
Shoreacres' undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and large greens make it a true test of skill. The par-4 14th hole, with its panoramic view of Lake Michigan, is a standout. The club's rich history and commitment to preserving the traditional game add to its allure.
8. The Glen Club
The Glen Club is a championship course designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio. Located in the North Shore suburbs, it offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience for players of all levels.
The Course Highlights
The Glen Club's meticulously manicured fairways, strategic bunkers, and fast greens make it a delight to play. The par-4 18th hole, with its island fairway and water hazard, provides a thrilling finish. The clubhouse offers breathtaking views of the course.
9. Kemper Lakes Golf Club
Kemper Lakes Golf Club is a championship course designed by renowned golf architect Ken Killian. It has hosted multiple professional tournaments, including the PGA Championship.
The Course Highlights
Kemper Lakes Golf Club's rolling fairways, strategic bunkers, and challenging water hazards make it a true test of skill. The par-5 15th hole, known as "Island Green," is one of the course's standout features. Its serene setting and excellent facilities make it a must-visit.
10. The Glen View Club
The Glen View Club is a historic golf course that dates back to 1897. With a traditional layout and beautiful scenery, it provides a memorable golfing experience.
The Course Highlights
The Glen View Club's tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers, and challenging greens offer a classic golfing experience. The par-4 18th hole, with its elevated tee and well-guarded green, provides a captivating finish. The club's warm hospitality and rich history make it a must-play.
