Chicago has long been one of America’s great golf cities. The roots run deep. Chicago Golf Club introduced the nation’s first 18-hole course in 1892, and more than a century later, the region remains one of the country’s most vibrant golf markets. Hundreds of public courses stretch across the metropolitan area, ranging from championship-caliber tournament venues to hidden suburban gems.
Yet the modern golf experience around Chicago extends far beyond the city limits.
Today, golfers increasingly view northern Illinois and Wisconsin as one interconnected golf destination. Within a few hours’ drive, players can experience Ryder Cup venues, U.S. Open sites, nationally ranked resort courses, and some of the Midwest’s most ambitious new golf developments. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a long weekend, or a buddies or couple’s getaway, the Chicago-Wisconsin corridor offers a collection of public golf experiences few regions can match.
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, Lemont
Any discussion of public golf in the region begins with Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont. Dubsdread, Cog Hill’s famed Course No. 4, remains one of the most recognizable public layouts in America. For two decades, it welcomed the PGA Tour’s Western Open and BMW Championship, testing the world’s best players with its imposing bunkering, mature trees, and championship pedigree. While the tournament grandstands are gone, the challenge remains. Few public courses in the Midwest can match Dubsdread’s combination of history and difficulty.
Glen Club, Glenview
The Glen Club in Glenview offers a completely different experience. Built on the former Glenview Naval Air Station, Tom Fazio transformed military property into one of Chicagoland’s most refined public venues. Wide fairways, strategic bunkering, native grasses, and immaculate conditioning create a country-club atmosphere that regularly attracts professional competition, including the Korn Ferry Tour’s NV5 Invitational.
Harborside International Golf Course, Chicago
Another standout is Harborside International. Located just south of downtown Chicago, the Port and Starboard Courses provide a links-inspired golf experience unlike anything else in the area. Elevated greens, dramatic bunkering, and skyline views combine to create a setting that feels far removed from its urban surroundings.
Mistwood Golf Club, Romeoville
Mistwood Golf Club continues to build its reputation as one of the region’s premier public facilities. Ray Hearn’s renovation transformed the property into a Scottish-inspired layout highlighted by sod-wall bunkers, expansive water features, and one of the Midwest’s finest instructional facilities. The club has become a model for what a modern public golf operation can be.
Preserve at Oak Meadows, Addison
The Preserve at Oak Meadows may be the best example. What was once a flood-prone municipal layout has been transformed into one of Illinois’ most acclaimed public courses. Architect Greg Martin’s redesign solved drainage issues while creating a strategic and visually striking championship course that has quickly earned statewide recognition.
Cantigny Golf, Wheaton
Cantigny Golf continues to evolve as well. The Wheaton facility has long been among Illinois’ most respected public venues, and recent renovation efforts have only strengthened its standing. Its three distinct nines provide variety rarely found at a single property, while its mature landscape offers a parkland golf experience that remains timeless.
Ruffled Feathers Golf Club, Lemont
For players who appreciate strategic architecture, Ruffled Feathers Golf Club remains one of the region’s most intriguing tests. Pete Dye’s only Chicagoland design incorporates bold shaping, intimidating visuals, and risk-reward decisions that reward repeat play.
Stonewall Orchard, Grayslake
Further north, Stonewall Orchard continues to deliver one of the most peaceful rounds in the region. Arthur Hills’ design winds through forests, wetlands, and rolling terrain, creating an atmosphere that feels more like northern Wisconsin than suburban Chicago.
Wisconsin’s Best Golf Destinations
Whistling Straits & Blackwolf Run, Kohler
No destination has done more to elevate Midwest golf than Kohler, Wisconsin. The combination of Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run gives golfers access to four championship layouts that have hosted Ryder Cups, PGA Championships, U.S. Women’s Opens, and numerous other major events. The Straits Course remains one of the most visually dramatic courses in the world, while Blackwolf Run’s River Course offers a strategic challenge every bit as memorable.
Kohler, Wisconsin, has also embraced the modern golf movement through The Baths of Blackwolf Run, proving that short courses, putting experiences, and fun-focused golf can coexist alongside championship venues.
Sand Valley Golf Resort, Rome
What began in 2017 with a single Coore & Crenshaw masterpiece has become one of the most talked-about golf resorts in the world. Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, The Sandbox, The Lido, and Sedge Valley have each developed loyal followings thanks to their distinct architectural styles and unforgettable playing experiences.
The newest addition, The Commons, further expands the property’s appeal. Rather than focusing solely on championship golf, Sand Valley continues to embrace creativity, fun, and flexibility. The result is a destination that feels as much like a golf playground as a traditional resort. Perhaps most impressive is how the resort has remained true to its original vision. Walking remains central to the experience, the accommodations encourage camaraderie, and every new project adds another layer to what has become one of golf’s most compelling destinations.
Erin Hills, Erin
Few public facilities have benefited more from championship exposure than Erin Hills. Since hosting the 2017 U.S. Open, the Wisconsin layout has solidified its status among America’s elite public courses. Massive fairways, dramatic fescue-covered terrain, and a pure walking experience make it unlike anything else in the Midwest.
The momentum shows no signs of slowing. A series of future USGA championships ensures that Erin Hills will remain in the national spotlight for years to come. Off the course, additions such as the Kettle Loop and Drumlin Putting Course have broadened the property’s appeal for buddy trips and golf vacations.
Destination Geneva National, Lake Geneva
Destination Geneva National continues to offer an experience unlike any other, featuring championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Lee Trevino on a single property. Enhanced lodging options and expanded resort amenities have transformed the facility into a true stay-and-play destination.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Lake Geneva
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is undergoing its own evolution. The Brute and The Highlands remain outstanding tests, but the addition of the Wee Nip short course and upgraded practice facilities reflects a growing industry trend toward creating experiences that appeal to golfers of every skill level.
How to Help: Upcoming Charity Golf Outings Supporting Great Causes
Looking to play a memorable course while supporting organizations making a difference? These upcoming charity golf outings combine great golf with meaningful impact.
Catholic Charities Golf Classic
Benefiting: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
Course: Knollwood Club & Shoreacres, Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, Illinois
Date: July 13, 2026
Ronald McDonald House Charities Golf Classic
Benefiting: Ronald McDonald House Charities Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana
Course: Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, Lemont, Illinois
Date: July 15, 2026
Stefani’s Children’s Foundation Golf Outing
Benefiting: Stefani’s Children’s Foundation and its community partners
Course: Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, Lemont, Illinois
Date: July 20, 2026
Swing for Dignity
Benefiting: Designs for Dignity
Course: Mistwood Golf Club, Romeoville, Illinois
Date: August 17, 2026
Chicago Big Hero Charity Golf Outing
Benefiting: Little Heroes League
Course: Ruth Lake Country Club, Hinsdale, Illinois
Date: July 13, 2026
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Glen Turk is a Wisconsin native who has been the Senior Writer/Editor of Midwest Golfing Magazine since 2005. Glen’s ultimate golf goal is to play in all 50 states; currently, he is more than two-thirds the way there. Glen and his wife have a rescue German Shepherd dog and are passionate supporters of their local humane society. Glen also enjoys participating in charity golf tournaments that benefit the Special Olympics. You can read all of Glen’s previous works at midwestgolfingmagazine.com by clicking on the “Past Issues” tab within the main menu.
