Cracking the Code: Ranking Illinois’ Gems
To curate this definitive list, Golf Getaway considered a multitude of factors, including:
- Course Design and Playability: We evaluated the strategic layout, variety of holes, and overall challenge each course presents.
- Conditioning and Aesthetics: From pristine greens and manicured fairways to picturesque settings and unforgettable views, course presentation was paramount.
- Memorable Golfing Experience: Factors like exceptional service, unique amenities, and a commitment to creating a truly unforgettable golfing experience were all considered.
The Illinois Golfing Odyssey Begins: Unveiling the Top 25
- Chicago Golf Club: Located in Wheaton, Illinois, Chicago Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States. Founded in 1892, it’s known for its rich history and classic course design.
- Shoreacres: Situated in Lake Bluff, Illinois, Shoreacres Golf Club offers a classic links-style course with scenic views of Lake Michigan. It’s known for its challenging layout and pristine conditions.
- Old Elm: Found in Highland Park, Illinois, Old Elm Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere.
- Skokie Country Club: Located in Glencoe, Illinois, Skokie Country Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its championship layout and elegant clubhouse.
- Butler National: Situated in Oak Brook, Illinois, Butler National Golf Club offers a challenging course with strategic bunkering and water hazards. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments and its exclusive membership.
- Olympia Fields (North): Found in Olympia Fields, Illinois, Olympia Fields Country Club’s North Course offers a championship layout with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments.
- Beverly Country Club: Located in Chicago, Illinois, Beverly Country Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere.
- Black Sheep (1st & 2nd): Situated in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Black Sheep Golf Club offers two courses, the 1st and 2nd, with challenging layouts and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s known for its unique design and natural beauty.
- Medinah (No.3): Found in Medinah, Illinois, Medinah Country Club’s Course No. 3 offers a championship layout with challenging bunkers and water hazards. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments.
- Flossmoor Country Club: Located in Flossmoor, Illinois, Flossmoor Country Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and vibrant social scene.
- Medinah (No.1): Situated in Medinah, Illinois, Medinah Country Club’s Course No. 1 offers a classic layout with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its historic significance and elegant clubhouse.
- Olympia Fields (South): Found in Olympia Fields, Illinois, Olympia Fields Country Club’s South Course offers a challenging layout with strategic bunkering and water hazards. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments.
- Bob O’Link: Located in Highland Park, Illinois, Bob O’Link Golf Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its historic significance and traditional design.
- North Shore Country Club – Illinois: Situated in Glenview, Illinois, North Shore Country Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and elegant clubhouse.
- Cog Hill (No.4): Found in Lemont, Illinois, Cog Hill Golf & Country Club’s Course No. 4 offers a championship layout with challenging bunkers and water hazards. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments.
- Conway Farms: Located in Lake Forest, Illinois, Conway Farms Golf Club offers a challenging course with strategic bunkering and water hazards. It’s known for its championship layout and pristine conditions.
- Onwentsia: Situated in Lake Forest, Illinois, Onwentsia Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and traditional design.
- Canyata: Found in Marshall, Illinois, Canyata Golf Club offers a challenging and scenic course with dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s known for its exclusive membership and natural beauty.
- Knollwood Club: Located in Lake Forest, Illinois, Knollwood Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its historic significance and welcoming atmosphere.
- Rich Harvest Farms: Situated in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Rich Harvest Farms offers a championship layout with challenging bunkers and water hazards. It’s known for hosting professional tournaments and its expansive property.
- Glen View Club: Found in Golf, Illinois, Glen View Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and traditional design.
- Exmoor Country Club: Located in Highland Park, Illinois, Exmoor Country Club offers a classic course with tree-lined fairways and challenging greens. It’s known for its rich history and elegant clubhouse.
- TPC Deere Run: Situated in Silvis, Illinois, TPC Deere Run offers a championship course with scenic views of the Rock River Valley. It’s known for hosting the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic.
- Bull Valley Golf Club: Found in Woodstock, Illinois, Bull Valley Golf Club offers a challenging course with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s known for its championship layout and natural beauty.
- Wynstone Golf Club: Located in North Barrington, Illinois, Wynstone Golf Club offers a challenging course with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s known for its upscale amenities and championship-caliber layout.
Planning Your Illinois Golf Getaway: Resources and Recommendations
Crafting the perfect Illinois Golf Getaway requires meticulous planning and insider knowledge. Here are some invaluable resources and recommendations to elevate your golfing adventure:
Curating Your Dream Itinerary:
- Golf Getaway: For the ultimate in convenience and personalization, visit the Golf Getaway website [Insert Website Link Here]. We offer a wide range of Illinois Golf Travel Packages catering to various budgets and preferences. Our expert travel specialists will craft a customized itinerary, secure tee times at coveted courses, and recommend luxurious accommodations close to the greens.
- Illinois PGA Section Website: The Illinois PGA Section website serves as a comprehensive directory for golfers exploring the state. You can search for courses by location, amenities, and price range, discover upcoming tournaments, and connect with local PGA Professionals for valuable insights.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury Resorts: Many Illinois golf courses are nestled within world-class resorts that offer luxurious accommodations, spa treatments, and fine dining experiences. Explore options like Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa (Galena, IL) or Eaglewood Resort & Spa (Itasca, IL) for a truly pampering golf getaway.
- Charming Inns and Bed & Breakfasts: For a more intimate and local experience, consider charming inns and bed & breakfasts located near your chosen courses. These establishments often offer personalized service and a delightful atmosphere.
Beyond the Greens:
While golf is undoubtedly the star attraction, Illinois offers a plethora of activities to enrich your getaway. Explore vibrant cities like Chicago, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or visit historical landmarks and cultural attractions.
- Explore Illinois Website: The Explore Illinois website provides comprehensive travel guides and itineraries for exploring different regions of the state. Discover hidden gems, thrilling adventures, and unique cultural experiences beyond the golf course.
- Chicago Tourism Board Website: If your Illinois Golf Getaway includes a visit to Chicago, the Chicago Tourism Board website offers valuable resources on navigating the city, exploring iconic attractions, and indulging in world-class dining and entertainment.
Additional Tips:
- Reserve Tee Times in Advance: Popular Illinois courses can book up quickly, especially during peak season. Reserve your tee times well in advance, particularly if you have your heart set on playing a specific course.
- Consider the Season: Illinois offers distinct golfing experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer boasts longer daylight hours for extended play. Winter brings a break in the season, allowing for potentially great off-season deals.
- Pack for All Weather Conditions: Illinois weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for anything by packing layers, comfortable rain gear, and sunscreen, regardless of the season.
Have you played any of these gems?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Book your next Golf Getaway and tee off amongst some of the Top 25 Illinois Courses by contacting Golf Getaway at www.GolfGetaway.tv/Contact